Prepare Ingredients
Measure all ingredients before starting for a smooth baking process.
Preheat Oven & Prepare Pans
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour two 6-inch round pans (or one 8-inch pan).
Line pan bottoms with parchment paper for easy release.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, sift together flour, cocoa (or tablea), baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Whisk to combine.
Add Wet Ingredients
Add sugar, egg, milk, oil, and vanilla extract to the bowl.
Mix until just combined. Batter will be thick.
Add Boiling Water
Pour in boiling water (or hot tablea mixture).
Stir slowly at first, then mix until batter is smooth and glossy. Batter will be thin—this is normal.
Bake
Divide batter evenly between pans.
Tap pans gently on the counter to remove air bubbles.
Bake for 15–20 minutes (6-inch pans) or 22–25 minutes (8-inch pan).
Cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with moist crumbs.
Cool
Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes.
Run a knife around edges, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Make Frosting
In a bowl, combine melted butter, powdered sugar, and cocoa (or tablea).
Beat until smooth and spreadable, adding milk as needed for consistency.
Assemble and Frost
Place one cake layer on a serving plate.
Spread a generous layer of frosting on top.
Add second cake layer and cover top and sides with remaining frosting.
Optional: Sprinkle with extra tablea or chocolate shavings.
Slice & Serve
Slice and enjoy with coffee or cold milk!