Ingredients
Ingredients:
For the cake:
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon white vinegar
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1 cup water
For the frosting:
2 Tablespoons butter
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup powdered sugar
1 Tablespoon milk (or cream)
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch square or round cake pan. This ensures that the cake will release easily once baked.
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, salt, and baking soda. This step will help incorporate the dry ingredients thoroughly and avoid any lumps in the batter.Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the vanilla extract, white vinegar, vegetable oil, and water.
The vinegar reacts with the baking soda, helping the cake rise. Stir the mixture until all the ingredients are combined into a smooth batter.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Once baked, remove from the oven and let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Once melted, stir in the cocoa powder and cook for about 1 minute, allowing it to dissolve and form a smooth mixture.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and gradually add the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.
Stir until everything is well combined and the frosting has reached a spreadable consistency.
Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the frosting evenly over the top. You can use a spatula or knife to create a smooth layer.
For a decorative touch, you can sprinkle some extra cocoa powder or chocolate chips on top.