[‘Do not overmix once flour is added to avoid a dense, rubbery cake.’, ‘Use room temperature eggs and buttermilk for smooth blending.’, ‘Use good quality cocoa powder and dark chocolate for best flavor.’, ‘Coffee enhances chocolate flavor without adding a coffee taste; do not skip.’, ‘Butter and dust pans with cocoa powder to prevent sticking.’, ‘Brush cooled cakes with simple syrup for extra moistness before frosting.’, ‘Allow cake to cool completely before frosting to avoid melting.’, ‘If you only have one pan, bake in batches or slice horizontally after baking.’, ‘Oven temperature accuracy is important; use an oven thermometer if unsure.’]