Let’s dive into the creation process, step by step:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes.
4. Stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth. Don’t worry if it looks thin — it’s supposed to be!
5. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. While the cake is baking, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and confectioners’ sugar until smooth. Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, beating until fluffy.
7. Once the cakes have cooled completely, spread the filling over the top of one cake layer. Place the second layer on top, pressing gently.
8. If desired, top with a simple chocolate glaze or dust with cocoa powder for a rustic look that reminds me of the simple yet elegant desserts my abuela used to make.

Each step is a journey, a chance to connect with the joy of cooking and the memories that food can evoke.