Ingredients:

  • 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
  • ¾ cup (65g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk, room temperature
  • ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup (240ml) hot water
  • ½ cup (120ml) bourbon whiskey
  • 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 ½ cups (440g) powdered sugar
  • ½ cup (40g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ¼ cup (60ml) bourbon whiskey
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1-2 tablespoons milk (as needed for consistency)
  • Optional: chocolate shavings
  • Optional: whipped cream

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare cake pans with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. Add eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla; mix until smooth.
  4. Gradually whisk in hot water and bourbon until well blended.
  5. Divide the cake batter evenly between prepared pans.
  6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to racks to cool completely.
  7. In a medium bowl, beat softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa, followed by bourbon and vanilla. Mix until smooth, adjusting with milk as needed.
  8. Place one layer on a serving plate, spread frosting on top, and add the second layer. Frost the top and sides of the cake.
  9. Top with chocolate shavings or serve with whipped cream as desired.