★Ingredients
For the cake*
2 cups granulated sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup vegetable oil
4 tbsp cocoa powder
1 cup water
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup buttermilk
For the frosting*
4 tbsp cocoa powder
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/3 cup whole milk
4 cups powdered sugar
1 cup pecan halves
1 tsp vanilla extract
★Instructions
For the cake*
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large sheet pan (about 18×13 inches).
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
In a saucepan, combine butter, oil, water, and cocoa powder. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat.
Pour the hot cocoa mixture into the flour mixture and stir until combined.
In a small bowl, whisk together eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla. Stir this into the batter until smooth.
Pour the batter into the prepared sheet pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
For the frosting*
In a saucepan, melt butter with cocoa powder and milk. Bring to a simmer while stirring, then remove from heat.
Whisk in powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth.
Pour the frosting over the warm cake.
Immediately place the pecan halves evenly over the frosting.
Let the cake cool completely before serving.
Enjoy!