Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar using a whisk or an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Add the Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract.
Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid over-mixing.
Pour into the Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool the Cake: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it stand in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Make the Ganache (Optional): In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chocolate chips. Stir until smooth and glossy.
Frost the Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, pour the ganache over the top, letting it drip down the sides. Allow it to set for a few minutes before slicing.