1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease and line a 6-inch round cake pan (or use a loaf pan for a rectangular cake).
• You can also use a parchment circle to prevent sticking.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

• In a medium bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
• Stir in granulated and brown sugar. Mix well to combine.

3. Mix the Wet Ingredients

• In another bowl, whisk together egg, oil, milk, and vanilla extract.
• Slowly pour in hot water or coffee, stirring carefully—it will loosen the batter and deepen the cocoa flavor.

4. Combine the Batter

• Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth and lump-free.
• Do not overmix; stir until just combined.
• If adding chocolate chips or chopped chocolate, fold them in now.

5. Pour and Bake

• Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
• Bake for 25–28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
• Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

6. Make the Frosting (Optional)

• In a small bowl, beat softened butter until creamy.
• Add sifted powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, vanilla, and a pinch of salt.
• Whip until smooth and fluffy. Adjust consistency with more milk or powdered sugar as needed.

7. Frost and Decorate

• Once the cake is completely cooled, frost the top and sides with chocolate buttercream.
• Add chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or a dusting of cocoa powder if desired.

8. Serve and Enjoy

• Slice and serve as-is or with whipped cream, berries, or ice cream for an extra treat.