Perfect Chocolate Cake

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups sugar
• 3/4 cup cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the oil, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until combined.
4. Stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let cool in the pans for 10 minutes before turning them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Interesting Facts

• This recipe was adapted from the classic Hershey's "Perfectly Chocolate" Chocolate Cake recipe.
• Cake flour can be substituted for all-purpose flour for a lighter, fluffier cake.
• Add a pinch of espresso powder to the batter for an extra chocolatey flavor.
• To make a chocolate glaze, mix together 1/4 cup melted butter, 1/4 cup cocoa powder, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, and 1/4 cup milk.