Decadent Chocolate Cake with Whipped Buttercream Frosting

1For the Chocolate Cake Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder (¾ cup), baking powder (1), baking soda (1), and salt (1 teaspoon). Add eggs (2), milk (1 cup), vegetable oil (½ cup), and vanilla extract (2 teaspoons) to the dry ingredients. Mix until well combined. Pour in the boiling water (1 cup) gradually, stirring continuously until the batter is smooth. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

2For the Whipped Buttercream Frosting In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the confectioners' sugar (3 cups) and continue beating until well combined and fluffy. Mix in the vanilla extract (1 teaspoon). Add heavy cream or milk (2-3 tablespoons), one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.

3Assemble the Cake Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of buttercream frosting on top. Top with the second cake layer and frost the top and sides with the remaining frosting. Decorate as desired and enjoy the decadent chocolate cake with buttercream frosting!