Instructions

• Step 1: Preheat the Oven - Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly from the moment you put it in.
• Step 2: Prepare the Cake Pans - Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. This will help your cakes release effortlessly once baked.
• Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, malted milk powder, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and espresso powder until well combined.
• Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients - In another bowl, combine the milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
• Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures - Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay!
• Step 6: Add Boiling Water - Slowly stir in the boiling water. This will thin the batter but make it incredibly moist. Mix until combined.
• Step 7: Bake the Cakes - Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Step 8: Cool the Cakes - Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, turn them out onto a cooling rack to cool completely.
• Step 9: Make the Frosting - In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the cocoa powder, malted milk powder, and confectioners' sugar, alternating with the milk. Beat until smooth and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract and espresso powder for added flavor.
• Step 10: Frost the Cake - Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top, then place the second layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake, smoothing it out as you go.