Chocolate Heaven Cake

Ingredients

For the cake:

• 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1½ tsp baking powder
• 1½ tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water (or hot coffee for richer flavor)

For the chocolate ganache:

• 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter (optional for shine)

Optional toppings:

• Shaved chocolate or cocoa powder
• Whipped cream
• Fresh berries

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line with parchment.
2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes.
4. Stir in boiling water (batter will be thin—this is normal). Mix until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove and cool completely on wire racks.
7. Meanwhile, prepare the ganache:
   • Heat the heavy cream until just simmering.
   • Pour over chopped chocolate and let sit 1 minute. Stir until smooth.
   • Stir in butter if using. Let cool slightly until spreadable.
8. Assemble the cake:
   • Place one cake layer on a serving plate.
   • Spread a layer of ganache.
   • Top with the second cake layer and pour/spread remaining ganache over the top and sides.
9. Garnish with toppings if desired.
10. Chill slightly before slicing for neater cuts. Enjoy!

Let me know if you’d like a gluten-free or dairy-free version!