✔ 2 cups all-purpose flour
✔ ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
✔ 2 cups granulated sugar
✔ 1½ tsp baking powder
✔ 1½ tsp baking soda
✔ 1 tsp salt
✔ ½ cup vegetable oil
✔ 2 large eggs
✔ 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp vinegar)
✔ 2 tsp vanilla extract
✔ 1 cup hot water or hot coffee (enhances chocolate flavor)
For the Coconut-Pecan Frosting:
✔ 1 cup evaporated milk
✔ 1 cup brown sugar
✔ 3 egg yolks
✔ ½ cup unsalted butter
✔ 1 tsp vanilla extract
✔ 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
✔ 1 cup chopped pecans
For the Chocolate Frosting (Optional, for Extra Richness):
✔ 1 cup butter, softened
✔ 3 cups powdered sugar
✔ ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
✔ ¼ cup milk
✔ 1 tsp vanilla extract
