Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

For the Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ cup heavy cream (adjust for consistency)

For Garnish:

• Fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
• Powdered sugar (optional)

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, then line the bottoms with parchment paper.

2. Make the Batter: In a large bowl, sift together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, whisk eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract until well combined. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Stir in the boiling water (the batter will be thin—this ensures a moist cake).

3. Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

4. Prepare the Frosting: Beat the butter with a hand mixer until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing on low speed. Stir in vanilla and cream, beating until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.

5. Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides. Smooth with a spatula.

6. Decorate: Arrange fresh berries on top and dust with powdered sugar for a stunning finish.

Enjoy your homemade chocolate cake with a cup of coffee or tea!