Decadent Chocolate Layer Cake

Preparation Steps:
* Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
* In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
* Add buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes.
* Carefully stir in the boiling water (the batter will be thin).
* Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
* Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
* Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.
* While cakes cool, prepare the buttercream frosting: In a large bowl, beat softened butter until creamy.
* Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, alternating with milk and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and fluffy.
* Once cakes are completely cool, level the tops if necessary. Place one cake layer on a serving plate.
* Spread a generous layer of buttercream frosting over the first cake layer. Place the second cake layer on top.
* Frost the top and sides of the entire cake with the remaining buttercream.
* Prepare the ganache drip: In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat.
* Add chocolate chips to the hot cream and let sit for 5 minutes. Whisk until smooth.
* Let the ganache cool slightly until it is still pourable but has thickened.
* Carefully pour the ganache over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides as desired.
* Decorate with chocolate truffles or powdered sugar if desired.
* Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the ganache before serving.
Keywords: chocolate cake, layer cake, chocolate frosting, cake recipe, dessert, baking, decadent