Bill Knapp'S Chocolate Cake Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, Dutch processed preferred for richer taste
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup hot water or hot coffee (coffee intensifies chocolate flavor)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 1/3 cup whole milk, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt (optional, balances sweetness)