If you’re craving an experience that goes beyond the average chocolate cake, you’re in for a treat. Inspired by the unforgettable scene in Matilda where Bruce devours that indulgent chocolate cake (Matilda Cake), this recipe is your gateway to recreating a slice of cinematic magic in your own kitchen. Known for its deep, rich flavor and fudgy texture, Matilda’s chocolate cake is a hit for any occasion.
What Is the Cake in Matilda?
The cake in Matilda isn’t just any chocolate dessert. It’s a fudgy, decadent chocolate cake with a thick layer of rich chocolate fudge frosting on top, the kind of dessert that leaves a lasting impression. Known as the “Matilda cake” among fans, this cake captures all the best qualities of chocolate – it’s moist, indulgent, and utterly satisfying. Whether you’re a fan of the movie or simply a lover of all things chocolate, this recipe brings that magic to life, right on your plate.
Why We Love This Matilda Cake Recipe!
This recipe goes beyond your typical chocolate cake. Here’s why it’s a crowd-pleaser:
- Unmatched Chocolate Flavor: Dutch-process cocoa powder and hot coffee come together to create a rich, deep chocolate taste.
- Perfect Moistness: Buttermilk and vegetable oil ensure the cake is soft and tender, staying moist even after a few days.
- Movie-Worthy Look and Taste: If you’ve seen Matilda, you know how iconic this cake is – and this recipe is as close to the original as it gets.
Ingredients for the Perfect Matilda Cake
Granulated Sugar – Adds the perfect level of sweetness and helps retain moisture in the cake. It’s crucial for the texture and flavor balance. If substituted with brown sugar, the flavor and texture may change slightly, adding more of a caramelized note.
All-Purpose Flour – The main structure of your cake. While you can substitute it with cake flour for a more tender texture, using all-purpose flour creates a more robust, slightly denser cake.
Unsweetened Dutch-process Cocoa Powder – This cocoa powder provides a deep, rich chocolate flavor and a dark color. Do not substitute with regular cocoa powder, as Dutch-process cocoa gives the cake its smooth texture and intense chocolate taste. Regular cocoa may alter the flavor and texture slightly.
Baking Powder – This helps the cake rise and ensures the texture is light and fluffy. It should not be substituted with baking soda, as they are not interchangeable and serve different purposes in the recipe.
Baking Soda – Works in combination with the acidic buttermilk to help the cake rise and create a tender crumb. It cannot be replaced with additional baking powder.
Salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the cake without making it salty. It enhances the chocolate flavor while helping to balance out the sweetness.
Vegetable Oil – Contributes to the cake’s moisture and helps create a tender texture. If you prefer, you can substitute it with another neutral oil like canola oil. It helps the cake stay moist even after a few days.
Large Eggs – Vital for holding the ingredients together and giving the cake its structure. Room-temperature eggs will mix better, ensuring a smoother batter and an even rise.
Pure Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor and a hint of sweetness to the cake. While you can use artificial vanilla extract in a pinch, pure vanilla gives a richer, more authentic taste.
Buttermilk – Contributes to the cake’s tenderness and moistness. The acidity of buttermilk reacts with the baking soda, helping the cake rise and giving it a light texture. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can use a mixture of milk and a splash of vinegar or lemon juice.
Hot Brewed Coffee – Enhances the chocolate flavor without adding any coffee taste to the cake. The hot coffee helps dissolve the cocoa powder and intensifies the richness of the chocolate. You can use water as a substitute, but the flavor will be less complex.
How to Make Matilda Cake
Ready to bake? Follow these steps for a flawless Matilda cake that’s moist, delicious, and loaded with chocolate flavor.
1. Preheat and Prepare Pans
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper and generously coat them with baking spray.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together your flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt. and baking soda. everything is well combined to ensure even distribution.
3. Add Wet Ingredients
- Pour in the vegetable oil and stir until all the dry ingredients are coated.
- Next, add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and fully incorporated.
4. Stir in Buttermilk and Coffee
- Slowly stir in the buttermilk, ensuring it blends evenly with the other ingredients.
- Finally, carefully pour in the hot coffee. Gently stir until the batter becomes smooth and evenly blended. The coffee enhances the chocolate, but you won’t taste it once the cake is baked.
5. Bake the Cake Layers
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 29-36 min.
- Allow the cake layers to cool in the pans for about 8-10 min.
6. Frost with Chocolate Fudge Frosting
- Once the cakes have cooled, spread a generous layer of chocolate fudge frosting on top of each layer.
- Stack the layers, adding more frosting on top and around the edges to fully cover the cake.
Expert Tips for a Perfect Matilda Cake
To help you get the best results, here are a few tips that will elevate your Matilda cake:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Using eggs and buttermilk at room temperature helps everything mix together smoothly.
- Opt for Dutch-Process Cocoa: Dutch-process cocoa has a darker color and a more intense flavor, making it perfect for this cake.
- Be Careful with Mixing: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for the best texture.
- Don’t Rush the Cooling Process: Make sure the cakes are fully cooled before you frost them, or the frosting could melt.
Variations to Try
Want to put your own spin on the Matilda cake? Here are some tasty variations:
- Add Chocolate Chips: Mix in a cup of chocolate chips to the batter for an extra hit of chocolate in every bite.
- Layer with Raspberry Jam: Spread a layer of raspberry jam between the cake layers before frosting for a fruity twist.
- Top with Caramel Drizzle: For an even richer treat, drizzle caramel sauce over the frosting just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is versatile and can be served for different occasions. Here are a few ideas:
- Casual Gatherings: Slice and serve as a simple yet impressive dessert at a family dinner or weekend gathering.
- Birthday Celebrations: With its show-stopping appearance, it’s perfect for birthdays or any chocolate lover’s celebration.
- Dessert Buffets: This cake holds its own at dessert tables, making it a great choice for larger events.
How to Store Matilda Cake
Proper storage can keep your cake fresh and delicious for days.
- Room Temperature Storage: If you plan to enjoy it within a few days, keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions about Matilda Cake
Q1: Why is Matilda Cake famous?
The Matilda cake gained popularity from the 1996 movie Matilda, based on Roald Dahl’s book. In the movie, Bruce Bogtrotter is forced to eat a gigantic, rich chocolate cake as punishment, creating one of the most memorable scenes in film history. Its deep, fudgy chocolate flavor and thick frosting captivated audiences, making it a favorite among chocolate lovers.
Q2: What kind of cake did Bruce eat?
Bruce ate a dense, moist chocolate cake with thick fudge frosting. This cake was made to look extra indulgent and irresistible, fitting perfectly with the film’s whimsical yet dramatic themes.
Q3: Where is Matilda Cake from?
While the Matilda cake is inspired by a fictional scene, its style resembles American chocolate fudge cakes, known for their intense chocolate flavor and moist texture. This type of cake has been a staple in American desserts for decades.
Bake Your Perfect Matilda Cake Today!
This Matilda cake recipe brings together everything you love about rich, indulgent desserts with a flavor that’s both timeless and unforgettable. With each bite, you’ll be transported to that iconic movie moment – a true treat for all ages. So preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake a chocolate masterpiece that’s worthy of any celebration. And once you’ve had a slice, you’ll understand why Matilda’s cake is nothing short of legendary. Enjoy every delicious bite!
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Equipment
Small mixing bowl
Spoon or whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Best matilda cake recipe
Ingredients
Cake
- Baking Spray – for greasing pans
- 2 cups 400 g Granulated Sugar
- 2 cups 250 g All-Purpose Flour
- ¾ cup 85 g Unsweetened Dutch-process Cocoa Powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons 6 g Baking Powder
- ½ teaspoon 2 g Baking Soda
- ¾ teaspoon 5 g Salt
- ¾ cup 177 ml Vegetable Oil
- 2 Large Eggs at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons 10 ml Pure Vanilla Extract
- 1 cup 237 ml Buttermilk, at room temperature
- 1 cup 237 ml Hot Brewed Coffee
Chocolate Fudge Frosting
- Use a favorite fudge frosting or make a simple chocolate ganache for a rich finish.
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare Pans
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper and generously coat them with baking spray.
Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together your flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt. and baking soda. everything is well combined to ensure even distribution.
Add Wet Ingredients
- Pour in the vegetable oil and stir until all the dry ingredients are coated.
- Next, add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and fully incorporated.
Stir in Buttermilk and Coffee
- Slowly stir in the buttermilk, ensuring it blends evenly with the other ingredients.
- Finally, carefully pour in the hot coffee. Gently stir until the batter becomes smooth and evenly blended. The coffee enhances the chocolate, but you won’t taste it once the cake is baked.
Bake the Cake Layers
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 29-36 min.
- Allow the cake layers to cool in the pans for about 8-10 min.
Frost with Chocolate Fudge Frosting
- Once the cakes have cooled, spread a generous layer of chocolate fudge frosting on top of each layer.
- Stack the layers, adding more frosting on top and around the edges to fully cover the cake.
Notes
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Using eggs and buttermilk at room temperature helps everything mix together smoothly.
- Opt for Dutch-Process Cocoa: Dutch-process cocoa has a darker color and a more intense flavor, making it perfect for this cake.
- Be Careful with Mixing: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for the best texture.
- Don’t Rush the Cooling Process: Make sure the cakes are fully cooled before you frost them, or the frosting could melt.