Matilda Chocolate Cake

Few chocolate desserts are as legendary and indulgent as the Matilda Chocolate Cake. Immortalized in Roald Dahl’s classic novel and its beloved movie adaptation, this cake is a symbol of ultimate chocolate decadence. Remember the scene where Bruce Bogtrotter was forced to eat the whole cake in front of the school? That thick, moist slice glistening with rich chocolate frosting? That’s the magic we’re recreating here.

This Matilda Chocolate Cake is a chocoholic’s dream come true: ultra-moist, rich, fluffy, and smothered in creamy, satiny chocolate ganache. It’s perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or any moment where you want to impress and indulge.

Ingredients:

For the Chocolate Cake:

• 1¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour

• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar

• ¾ cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-processed)

• 1½ tsp baking soda

• 1½ tsp baking powder

• 1 tsp salt

• 2 large eggs (room temperature)

• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk

• ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil

• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract

• 1 cup (240ml) boiling water or hot coffee (enhances chocolate flavor)

• ½ cup (120ml) sour cream or Greek yogurt (for added moisture)

For the Fudge Frosting:

• 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter

• ¾ cup (65g) unsweetened cocoa powder

• 1 tsp instant espresso powder (optional)

• 4 cups (500g) powdered sugar, sifted

• ½ cup (120ml) whole milk (adjust for desired consistency)

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

Preparation:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or one deep 9×13-inch pan. Line the bottom with parchment paper for easy release.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Whisk until thoroughly combined and lump-free.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, sour cream, oil, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture. Stir gently to combine, being careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Add Hot Liquid

Slowly pour in the boiling water or coffee. The batter will be thin—this is normal. Stir until fully incorporated. This step helps to “bloom” the cocoa and results in an ultra-moist cake.

Step 6: Bake

Pour the batter evenly into prepared pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes (for round pans) or 40–45 minutes (for 9×13 pan), or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Let the cakes cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then invert onto wire racks to cool completely.

Step 7: Make the Fudge Frosting

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in cocoa powder and espresso powder (if using). Remove from heat. Add powdered sugar, salt, vanilla, and milk gradually, whisking until smooth and thick. Add more milk as needed for a spreadable consistency.

Let the frosting cool slightly—it should be thick, but spreadable and glossy.

Step 8: Assemble the Cake

If making a layer cake, level the tops of the cakes. Spread a generous layer of frosting between the two cakes, then coat the top and sides. If using a 9×13 pan, spread frosting directly over the cooled cake.

Step 9: Chill or Serve

For that gooey Matilda look, serve the cake at room temperature. For cleaner cuts, chill the cake for 30 minutes before slicing.

Variation

• Chocolate Chips Inside: Fold in 1 cup of mini chocolate chips into the batter for extra bursts of chocolate.

• Peanut Butter Frosting: Swap half the butter in the frosting with peanut butter for a salty-sweet twist.

• Gluten-Free: Use a high-quality 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

• Vegan Option: Substitute eggs with flax eggs (2 tbsp flaxseed + 6 tbsp water), and use non-dairy milk and vegan butter.

Cooking Note:

• For best results, use Dutch-processed cocoa for a smoother, deeper chocolate flavor.

• Let the hot liquid cool slightly before mixing to avoid scrambling the eggs.

• If using coffee, make sure it’s strong but not boiling—this amplifies the chocolate flavor without tasting like coffee.

Serving Suggestions:

• With Vanilla Ice Cream: A warm slice of Matilda Chocolate Cake and a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream is a heavenly pairing.

• With Fresh Berries: Serve with raspberries or strawberries to balance the richness.

• Drizzled with Ganache: For extra indulgence, drizzle with warm chocolate ganache or hot fudge.

• Add Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds lightness to every bite.

Tips:

• Always sift cocoa powder and powdered sugar to prevent lumps in the batter and frosting.

• Don’t skip the sour cream—it’s the secret to a moist crumb.

• Use a serrated knife to slice the cake for cleaner edges.

• Let the cake cool fully before frosting to avoid melting.

• Wrap cake layers tightly and chill overnight before frosting for enhanced flavor and structure.

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Cooking Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Nutritional Information (per slice, based on 12 servings)

Calories: ~520
Protein: ~5g
Sodium: ~280mg

FAQs

Q1: Why is my cake too crumbly or dry?

Dry cake usually results from overbaking. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate temperature and check the cake 5 minutes before the timer.

Q2: Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! The cake actually tastes better the next day. Wrap cooled layers tightly in plastic and store at room temperature for up to 24 hours. Frost the next day.

Q3: Can I freeze the cake?

Absolutely. Wrap the unfrosted layers in plastic and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting.

Q4: Can I use this recipe for cupcakes?

Yes, it makes about 24 cupcakes. Bake at 350°F for 18–22 minutes.

Q5: Is there a substitute for sour cream?

You can use full-fat Greek yogurt or buttermilk. Avoid low-fat versions as they affect moisture and richness.

Conclusion

Matilda Chocolate Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of pure chocolate indulgence. Whether you’re recreating a moment from your childhood, planning a show-stopping dessert for a special occasion, or just craving a rich, fudgy slice of joy, this cake delivers every single time. Its moist crumb, deep chocolate flavor, and silky frosting make it an unforgettable treat.

So go ahead—cut a generous slice, pour a glass of milk, and enjoy the sweet satisfaction of a chocolate masterpiece worthy of Matilda herself.

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