Ingredients
Method
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 10x15-inch jelly roll pan or similar-sized baking sheet.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, combine butter, water, and cocoa powder. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until butter melts and mixture comes to a boil.
- Pour the hot cocoa mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
- In a small bowl, whisk together eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract. Add to the batter and mix until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- While the cake bakes, prepare the icing. In a saucepan, combine butter, cocoa powder, and milk. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat.
- Whisk in vanilla extract and powdered sugar until smooth. Stir in nuts if using.
- Pour the warm icing over the hot cake as soon as it comes out of the oven. Spread evenly with a spatula.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.
Notes
Don't overmix the batter - just combine until ingredients are incorporated. Pour icing over hot cake so it soaks in slightly. Buttermilk substitute: mix 1/2 cup milk with 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon juice or vinegar and let sit for 5 minutes.
