Classic Chocolate Cake

Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour two cake pans.

Whisk flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Beat in eggs, then add vanilla and melted chocolate.

Mix in dry ingredients, alternating with buttermilk.

Stir in hot water until smooth.

Divide batter between pans.

Bake 30–35 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool before frosting and slicing.