A decadent and ultra-moist chocolate cake made with rich buttermilk and topped with a smooth, fluffy cocoa frosting. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or simply treating yourself!

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🔹 Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 cups granulated sugar

• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• 2 tsp baking powder

• 1½ tsp baking soda

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 cup buttermilk (room temperature)

• ½ cup vegetable oil

• 2 large eggs (room temperature)

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 cup hot water

For the Cocoa Buttermilk Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 3½ cups powdered sugar

• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• ½ cup buttermilk (room temperature)

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

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🛠️ Tools You’ll Need

• Two 9-inch round cake pans

• Mixing bowls

• Electric or stand mixer

• Rubber spatula

• Measuring cups & spoons

• Whisk

• Wire cooling rack

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep

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

2. Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until fully combined.

3. Add Wet Ingredients

Add buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla to the dry mix. Beat on medium speed until the batter is mostly smooth and thick.

4. Incorporate Hot Water

Slowly pour in the hot water while mixing on low speed. The batter will become thin—this is normal and helps deepen the chocolate flavor.

5. Bake

Divide batter evenly between pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The tops should be domed and springy.

6. Cool Completely

Let the cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely before frosting.

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🍫 Make the Frosting

7. Prepare Frosting

In a large bowl, beat softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing between additions. Pour in buttermilk, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Beat until fluffy and spreadable. Add more buttermilk if needed for consistency.

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🎂 Assemble the Cake

8. Layer and Frost

Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate or stand. Spread a thick layer of frosting on top. Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides. Use a spatula to create smooth sides or rustic swirls as desired.

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✅ Tips for Success

• Use room temperature ingredients for better blending.

• Let the cake cool fully before frosting to avoid melting.

• Store leftovers covered at room temperature for 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.