Step-by-Step Instructions

• Step 1: Preheat the Oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly and rises beautifully.
• Step 2: Prepare the Cake Pans. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. You can also line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal later.
• Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
• Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients. Add the eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix on medium speed with an electric mixer until just combined.
• Step 5: Incorporate Boiling Water. Slowly add the boiling water (or hot coffee) to the batter. This step is crucial as it enhances the chocolate flavor and creates a more moist cake. Mix until fully combined; the batter will be thin.
• Step 6: Pour and Bake. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Step 7: Cool the Cakes. Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
• Step 8: Make the Frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the melted butter, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Adjust the milk as needed for desired consistency.
• Step 9: Frost the Cake. Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top, then place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
• Step 10: Serve and Enjoy. Slice into your delicious Hersheys Chocolate Cake, serve it up, and watch the smiles unfold!