Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 cup M&Ms (plus more for decorating)
– 1 recipe chocolate buttercream frosting (see notes)
Equipment Needed
– Two 9-inch round cake pans
– Mixing bowls
– Electric mixer (or whisk)
– Rubber spatula
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Cooling rack
– Offset spatula for frosting
– Piping bag (optional for decoration)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, I like to prepare my cake pans by greasing them and lining the bottom with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. It’s such a soothing experience to watch those dry ingredients come together; the smell of cocoa is already making my kitchen feel warm and inviting. Once they’re well-mixed, add in the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla. Beat everything together until combined. Then, slowly mix in the boiling water to create a smooth batter. I promise, it’s going to seem a bit runny, but that’s exactly what you want! (See the next page below to continue steps…)