Making The Best Chocolate Cake is simple, and following these steps will lead to a delicious result:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until fully blended.
4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. The batter will be thick.
5. Add Boiling Water: Carefully stir in the boiling water. This will thin out the batter; mix until smooth.
6. Fold in Chocolate Chips: If using, gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips for added richness.
7. Pour Batter: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans.
8. Bake: Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
9. Cool the Cakes: Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 15-20 minutes. Then, turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
10. Frost as Desired: Once cooled, frost with your favorite chocolate frosting or ganache.

These clear steps will help you achieve a cake that is both beautiful and delicious!