Creating your Dark Chocolate Bundt Cake follows a straightforward process. Here’s how to do it step-by-step:

1. Preheat oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your bundt pan by greasing it well and lightly dusting it with cocoa powder or flour.

2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, granulated sugar, dark cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well incorporated.

3. Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.

4. Create the batter: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, mixing until combined and no lumps remain.

5. Add hot water: Carefully mix in the hot water, which will help create a moist cake. Your batter should be thin but smooth.

6. Incorporate chocolate chips: If using, fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey experience.

7. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and tap it gently to remove air bubbles. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

8. Cool the cake: After baking, allow the cake to cool in the pan for 20-30 minutes. Then, carefully invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely.