Fudge Frosting Cake

Cake (using a yellow box cake mix):

Instructions:

For the Fudge Frosting:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized pot, combine the semi-sweet chocolate, sugar, milk, butter, and salt.
2. Boil: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent scorching. Once boiling, reduce the heat slightly and boil gently for 3 minutes, continuing to stir.
3. Cool and Beat: Remove the pot from the heat. Allow the frosting to cool until it is lukewarm. You can place the pan in a sink with a few inches of cold water (being careful not to let water get into the pan) to speed up the cooling process.
4. Add Vanilla and Thicken: Once lukewarm, add the 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat the frosting vigorously with a spoon until it becomes thick enough to spread. The consistency will change from smooth to slightly grainy as it thickens.
5. Adjust Quantity (Optional): This recipe can easily be doubled or tripled if you desire more frosting for your cake.

For the Cake (using a box mix):

1. Enhance Box Mix: To make a yellow box cake mix taste more homemade, use 4 large eggs (instead of the 3 typically called for on the box). Add 2 boxes of French Vanilla instant pudding mix (the 3.4 oz size). Also, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the batter.
2. Prepare and Bake: Follow the remaining directions on the box mix for liquid quantities and mixing instructions. Using an electric mixer, mix all ingredients thoroughly until combined. Pour the batter into your greased and floured pan. Bake the cake according to the time and temperature specified on the box.
3. Cool: Allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.

Assembly:

1. Once both the cake is cooled and the fudge frosting is ready and spreadable, apply the fudge frosting evenly over the top and sides of the cake.
2. Serve and enjoy your homemade-tasting Birthday Cake with rich Fudge Frosting