Top 10 Chocolate Cake

Ingredients:

For the cake:

• 1 teaspoon baking powder 
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup hot brewed coffee
• 1 cup buttermilk 
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the frosting:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups confectioners' sugar, sifted
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted
• 3-5 tablespoons heavy cream
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Prepare the pans: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and lightly flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cocoa powder, and sugar.

3. Combine wet ingredients: Add the hot coffee, vegetable oil, and buttermilk to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

4. Incorporate eggs and vanilla: Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the batter. Mix on medium speed for about 2 minutes, ensuring the batter is smooth and well combined.

5. Bake the cakes: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

6. Cool the cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, remove them from the pans and let them cool completely on a wire rack.

7. Prepare the frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the sifted confectioners' sugar and cocoa powder, mixing well after each addition. Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting is light and fluffy. Adjust the consistency by adding more cream if necessary.

8. Assemble the cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top. Place the second cake layer over the first and frost the top and sides of the cake evenly.