Ingredients
– 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
– ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 ½ tsp baking powder
– 1 ½ tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– ½ cup vegetable oil
– 1 cup Kahlua coffee liqueur
– 2 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup boiling water
For the Strawberry Buttercream Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- ¼ cup pureed strawberries
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Equipment Needed
– Two 9-inch round cake pans
– Mixing bowls
– Electric mixer or stand mixer
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Rubber spatula
– Wire racks
– Piping bag and desired tip (for frosting)
Step-by-Step Instructions
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your cake pans. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, whisking together until well mixed. Then, add in the eggs, milk, oil, Kahlua, and vanilla, mixing on medium speed until combined and smooth. The smell of the batter is divine! Now, here’s where it gets interesting: slowly add the boiling water to the batter—you’ll notice it becomes thin, but that’s perfect! This step makes the cake exceptionally moist. (See the next page below to continue steps…)