Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1¾ cups sugar

• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• 2 tsp baking powder

• 1½ tsp baking soda

• 1 tsp salt

• 2 large eggs

• 1 cup milk

• ½ cup vegetable oil

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 cup boiling water

For the Ganache:

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped

Topping:

• Fresh strawberries

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

2. Make the Batter:
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
   Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes.
   Stir in boiling water — the batter will be thin.

3. Bake:
   Divide batter between pans.
   Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

4. Cool:
   Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then remove to wire racks to cool completely.

5. Prepare the Ganache:
   Heat cream in a saucepan until just simmering. Pour over chopped dark chocolate in a bowl.
   Let sit for 1 minute, then stir until smooth and glossy. Let it cool slightly.

6. Assemble:
   Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread some ganache on top.
   Add the second layer, then pour remaining ganache over the top and sides.
   Decorate with fresh strawberries.

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🍫 Tip: Chill the cake for 30 minutes before serving for a firmer ganache texture.