Name: Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1¾ cups all-purpose flour; 2 cups granulated sugar; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 tsp baking powder; 1½ tsp baking soda; 1 tsp salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup hot coffee or hot water; 1 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; ½ cup cocoa powder; 3½ cups powdered sugar; ½ cup heavy cream; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

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If you have a soft spot for chocolate and crave a dessert that feels like a warm, delicious hug, then you are going to adore the Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake Recipe. This cake captures everything that makes chocolate cake irresistible: it is ultra-moist, richly cocoa-flavored, and topped with that iconic thick, glossy fudge frosting everyone dreams about from the movie. Every bite melts in your mouth with decadent layers that satisfy any sweet tooth and lift your spirits. Trust me, once you try this cake, it will quickly become a beloved staple in your dessert rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A wooden board holds nine items arranged in a neat grid on a white marbled surface: at the top left is a white bowl filled with dark brown cocoa powder with fine texture; to its right are two brown eggs placed side by side; next to the eggs is a white bowl filled with fluffy white flour. Below the cocoa powder is a small white bowl filled with granulated white sugar; to its right is a white bowl containing bright yellow melted butter with smooth texture; next to that is a white bowl with several large dark chocolate chunks, deep brown and glossy. At the lower left corner is a small white bowl with smaller dark chocolate pieces; beside it is a white bowl filled with fine white baking powder; finally, a white bowl with creamy, thick white yogurt fills the bottom right corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients might seem straightforward, but each has a starring role that brings the Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake Recipe to life. From the rich cocoa powder providing deep chocolate flavor, to the hot coffee that intensifies that cocoa without tasting like coffee, every element is essential to create this magical cake.

All-purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure and tender crumb for the cake layers.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a moist texture.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: Supplies the intense chocolate flavor this cake is famous for.
Baking powder and baking soda: These leavening agents ensure a light, airy lift to each bite.
Salt: Enhances the chocolate flavor and balances sweetness.
Large eggs: Bind the ingredients and contribute to a rich texture.
Whole milk: Adds moisture and richness to the batter.
Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake incredibly moist and tender.
Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
Hot coffee or hot water: Brightens and intensifies the cocoa taste without overpowering it.
Unsalted butter: Creates a silky, smooth base for the fudge frosting.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melted into the frosting, they add a silky chocolate richness.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to luscious perfection.
Cocoa powder (for frosting): Boosts chocolate intensity in the frosting.
Heavy cream: Adds creaminess and helps achieve that glossy frosting texture.
Pinch of salt (for frosting): Balances the sweet notes and enhances chocolate flavor.

How to Make Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Cake Batter

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper to make cake removal a breeze. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This dry mix forms the base flavor and structure of our cake. Then add the eggs, whole milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract, beating the mixture until it becomes smooth and velvety. The batter should be thoroughly combined before moving on.

Step 2: Add Hot Coffee or Hot Water

The special secret to the Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake Recipe is whisking in hot coffee or hot water slowly. This step thins the batter wonderfully, which might feel strange at first, but it’s crucial for achieving the cake’s famously moist and tender texture. Plus, the hot liquid brightens the deep cocoa flavor, making it even more memorable.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter evenly into the two prepared pans, smoothing the tops gently. Place them in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know the cakes are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs attached. Let the cakes cool completely before frosting, which allows the layers to firm up and makes decorating easier.

Step 4: Make the Fudge Frosting

While your cakes cool, melt the unsalted butter and semi-sweet chocolate chips together over low heat or in the microwave, stirring until silky smooth. Whisk in the cocoa powder until it’s fully incorporated. Gradually beat in powdered sugar, making sure the frosting stays creamy and lump-free. Add in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, then beat until the frosting is thick, glossy, and perfectly spreadable.

Step 5: Assemble and Frost the Cake

Start by placing one cake layer on your serving plate. Spread a thick, generous layer of that luscious fudge frosting over the top. Add the second cake layer on top, and then frost the entire top and sides of the cake. For the classic Matilda look, swirl the frosting thickly with a spatula to create decadent ripples that invite you to dig right in.

How to Serve Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake Recipe

A slice of chocolate cake with three layers of dark chocolate sponge and two layers of smooth chocolate frosting in between. The outside is covered with a thick layer of rich chocolate icing. The slice sits on a white plate with scalloped edges, placed on a white marbled surface. There are small chocolate shavings scattered around the plate. In the background, there is a blurred view of more chocolate cake and a white cup. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a scattering of fresh berries works beautifully if you want to add a little visual contrast without overpowering the cake’s sumptuous flavor. For gatherings, a dollop of whipped cream on each slice ups the indulgence factor.

Side Dishes

Nothing pairs better than a cold glass of milk to accompany this intensely chocolatey treat. If you’re serving for a party, consider some lightly roasted nuts or fresh fruit to balance the richness and add a bit of texture.

Creative Ways to Present

Make this cake the star of the show by serving it on a rustic cake stand, surrounded by candles for a cozy vibe. For an elegant twist, you could drizzle homemade caramel sauce over the frosting or sprinkle edible gold flakes for a touch of sparkle that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

The Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake Recipe tastes even better the next day after the flavors have fully melded. Store leftover cake covered at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate it for up to five days to keep it fresh and moist.

Freezing

If you want to keep this cake longer, it freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before popping it into the freezer. It can keep well for up to three months without losing its fantastic texture and flavor.

Reheating

To enjoy the cake after freezing, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. If you prefer it slightly warm, pop individual slices in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds. This brings back the softness and gooey charm of freshly baked cake.

FAQs

Can I substitute coffee with hot water in this recipe?

Absolutely! Both coffee and hot water work, but coffee enhances the cocoa flavor, giving a deeper, more complex chocolate taste without adding a coffee flavor. If you prefer not to use coffee, hot water will still yield a deliciously moist cake.

Is this cake suitable for vegetarians?

Yes! The Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake Recipe contains no meat or gelatin products, making it perfect for vegetarians who want to indulge in a decadent dessert.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but results may vary slightly in texture. Be sure to use a blend designed for baking to maintain tenderness and rise as close to the original as possible.

How long does this cake keep fresh after frosting?

Frosted, the cake stays fresh and moist for about two days at room temperature if covered. In the fridge, it lasts up to five days. Be sure to keep it well-covered to prevent drying out.

Why is the batter so thin after adding hot coffee?

The batter thins out because the hot liquid dissolves the cocoa and other dry ingredients more thoroughly, helping the cake become ultra-moist and tender. It might feel unusual, but this is a key step in achieving the perfect texture of the Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake Recipe.

Final Thoughts

If you want to make an unforgettable dessert that never fails to impress, the Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake Recipe is your go-to. It’s rich, moist, and decadently frosted just like the scene-stealer from the movie. Share it with family and friends or savor a slice all to yourself — either way, it’s pure chocolate bliss worth making again and again.