Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour two or three round cake pans.
In a large bowl, whisk together dry cake ingredients.
Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla; mix until smooth.
Slowly stir in hot water or coffee until batter is thin.
Pour batter evenly into prepared pans.
Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Let cakes cool completely before frosting.
