Chocolate Cake and Frosting

I usually don't like cake; there are only a few exceptions and this cake is one of them. This recipe comes from a fabulous cook and is the best recipe for chocolate cake you'll ever find - promise! We especially love this cake with a layer of Junior's cheesecake in the middle (dubbed The Diet Killer)- definitely rich, but oh so delicious - perfect for a special occasion!

-Thomalee Abraham

2 cups sugar
1-3/4 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup cocoa
1-1/2 tsp. baking powder
1-1/2 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
2 eggs
1 cup milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 tsp. vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

Heat oven to 350. Grease and flour two 9-inch round baking pans (line with waxed paper for extra insurance!). Stir together sugar, flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in large mixer bowl. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla; beat on medium speed of electric mixer 2 minutes. Stir in water (batter will be thin). Pour batter evenly into prepared pans. Bake 30-35 minutes or until wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes; remove from pans to wire racks. Frost when completely cool.

Chocolate Frosting
1/2 cup butter or margarine
2/3 cup cocoa
3 cups powdered sugar
1/3 cup milk
1 tsp. vanilla extract

Melt butter. Stir in cocoa. Alternately add powdered sugar and milk, beating to spreading consistency. Add small amount additional milk if needed. Stir in vanilla. Makes about 2 cups frosting.