Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C)
Grease and flour a cake pan
In a bowl, mix 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 cup sugar, 1/2 cup cocoa powder, 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt
Add 2 eggs, 1/2 cup milk, 1/4 cup vegetable oil, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mix until combined
Add 1/2 cup hot water and stir until smooth
Pour the batter into the prepared pan
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes
Check doneness with a toothpick
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes
Remove from the pan and cool completely
Frost if desired