Decadent Chocolate Cake

1Preparing the Cake Batter Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

2In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa, baking powder (1 teaspoon), baking soda (½ teaspoon), and salt (½ teaspoon). Add in the milk (½ cup), vegetable oil (¼ cup), eggs (2 large), and vanilla extract (2 teaspoons). Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes.

3Stir in the boiling water (1 cup) until the batter is well combined. It will be thin, but that's okay.

4Baking the Cake Pour the batter into the prepared pans. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

5Making the Chocolate Ganache In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the heavy cream (¼ cup) and bring to a simmer. Remove from heat and stir in the chocolate chips (2 cups) until smooth. Allow the ganache to cool for 10 minutes.

6Assembling the Cake Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of ganache over the top. Top with the second cake layer. Spread the remaining ganache over the top and sides of the cake.

7Preparing the Frosting In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar (¼ cup) and cocoa, alternating with the heavy cream (⅓ cup) and vanilla extract (1 teaspoon). Beat until smooth and creamy.

8Decorating the Cake Frost the cake with the chocolate frosting. Dust the top with powdered sugar (3 cups) for an elegant finish.

9Serve and enjoy this decadent chocolate cake with your favorite beverage.