Step 1: Prepare the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan or an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together:
- Flour
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Sugar
- Cocoa powder
- Instant coffee
- Pinch of salt
Mix until everything is evenly combined.
Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients
Add:
- Eggs
- Milk
- Vegetable oil
- Vanilla extract (if using)
Whisk until smooth.
Step 4: Add the Boiling Water
Slowly pour in the boiling water while whisking continuously.
The batter will be thin—this is completely normal and helps create an incredibly moist cake.
Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Step 6: Cool the Cake
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
Transfer it to a wire rack and let it cool completely before adding the ganache.