Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pans

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper for a smooth release. Let’s make magic happen!

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, sift together:
2. 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
3. 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
4. 1 tbsp + 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
5. 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
6. 2 cups white sugar
7. 1 tsp salt
8. Whisk everything well to create a light, lump-free base for your cake.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

1. Add in the following:
2. 2 large eggs (~55–65g each)
3. 1 cup milk (low or full fat)
4. 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or canola)
5. 2 tsp vanilla extract
6. Mix until just combined. You’re getting close to chocolate cake bliss!

Step 4: Stir in Boiling Water

1. Carefully pour in 1 cup of boiling water and mix slowly. The batter will look thin—don’t worry, this is the secret to an extra moist cake!

Step 5: Bake

1. Evenly divide the batter into the prepared pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Can you smell that rich chocolate aroma? 😍

Step 6: Cool and Frost

1. Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, frost with your favorite chocolate buttercream or ganache.