Preparation Steps

• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
  Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly and comes out perfectly fluffy.
• Step 2: Prepare the Pans
  Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. This will help your cakes release easily after baking.
• Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
  In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This blends the dry ingredients and adds air for a lighter cake.
• Step 4: Combine Sugar and Wet Ingredients
  In another bowl, mix the granulated sugar, buttermilk, vanilla extract, vegetable oil, and eggs until well combined. This creates a sweet, creamy base for your cake.
• Step 5: Combine Mixtures
  Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay!
• Step 6: Add Boiling Water
  Slowly stir in the boiling water. This step makes the batter thin, but it’s essential for a moist cake.
• Step 7: Pour Batter into Pans
  Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Give them a little shake to level the batter.
• Step 8: Bake the Cakes
  Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
• Step 9: Cool the Cakes
  Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
• Step 10: Make the Frosting
  In a bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Add vanilla extract, cocoa powder, and milk, mixing until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.
• Step 11: Frost the Cake
  Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread frosting on top, then place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake.
• Step 12: Serve and Enjoy!
  Slice up your delicious Hershey's Chocolate Cake and enjoy a piece of chocolate heaven with friends and family!