Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour, 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar, ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder, 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda, and 1 teaspoon salt.

Add 2 large eggs, 1 cup whole milk, ½ cup vegetable oil, and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract to the dry mixture and mix on medium speed for about 2 minutes until well combined.

Carefully stir in 1 cup boiling water to create a thin batter.

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.

Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely before frosting.