Perhaps because of my approaching birthday, or a simple craving for the mood-enhancing properties of cocoa, I have recently been dreaming of a perfect chocolate cake. Balancing sweetness with the deep, complex flavors of cocoa is a culinary science unto itself. This much-loved recipe results in a moist, silky textured cake with a rich and comforting flavor. Finished with a luscious vanilla buttercream frosting, this cake makes a memorable centerpiece to any celebration, big or small.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

½ cup Dutch-process cocoa powder

1 ½ cups granulated sugar

1 teaspo...