Making the Cake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients and beat on medium speed until well combined. Reduce the speed and carefully add the boiling water to the cake batter until well combined.
- Bake: Divide the cake batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Remove from the oven and allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, remove from the pans and cool completely on a wire rack.
Making the Chocolate Frosting:
- Beat the Butter: Using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a paddle or whisk attachment, beat the butter on high speed until creamy.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and salt while continuing to beat on low.
- Mix in Liquid Ingredients: Add the vanilla extract and heavy cream/milk, beating on high for about 2 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy.
Assembling the Cake:
- Layer and Frost: If the cakes have domed on top, level them with a knife. Place one cake layer on your serving plate and evenly cover the top with frosting. Add the second layer and apply a thin crumb coat over the entire cake. Chill for about 30 minutes, then apply a final thick layer of frosting.
- Decorate: Use any remaining frosting to decorate the cake as desired. You can pipe designs on the top or sides and add chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or any decoration of your choice.
Tips for a Moist Chocolate Cake:
- Buttermilk and Oil: The combination of buttermilk and oil in the batter keeps the cake moist and tender.
- Boiling Water: Boiling water enhances the chocolate flavor and contributes to the cake’s moist texture.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on the baking time to ensure the cake remains moist.
Enjoy your delicious, moist chocolate cake with friends and family, or savor it by yourself with a cup of coffee or milk. It’s guaranteed to satisfy any chocolate craving!