Matilda’s Chocolate Cake – Clara quick dinners

This Matilda’s Chocolate Cake is a rich, moist, and decadent dessert, inspired by the famous chocolate cake scene from the movie “Matilda.” With a deep chocolate flavor, fudgy texture, and silky chocolate frosting, this cake is every chocolate lover’s dream!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super rich & fudgy – Just like Bruce Bogtrotter’s dream cake!
• Perfectly moist – Made with buttermilk and cocoa for ultimate texture.
• Easy & indulgent – A simple homemade cake with bakery-level results.
• Silky chocolate frosting – A buttery, chocolatey, and smooth finish.
• Great for special occasions – Birthdays, celebrations, or just a chocolate craving!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chocolate Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp vinegar)
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup hot coffee or hot water (enhances the chocolate flavor)

For the Chocolate Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
• ½ cup heavy cream or milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Optional Toppings:

• Chocolate shavings
• Chocolate ganache drizzle
• Whipped cream

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Slowly pour in hot coffee or hot water, stirring until fully combined (the batter will be thin).

Step 2: Bake the Cake

1. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
2. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Chocolate Frosting

1. In a bowl, beat butter and cocoa powder until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar and heavy cream, beating until fluffy.
3. Mix in vanilla and a pinch of salt.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Place one cake layer on a plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting over the top.
2. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake.
3. Smooth out the frosting and add chocolate shavings or ganache drizzle.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

• Slice generously and channel your inner Bruce Bogtrotter!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12-14
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Cooling & Frosting Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Extra Fudgy Cake – Add ½ cup melted dark chocolate to the batter.
• Gluten-Free Version – Use gluten-free all-purpose flour.
• Peanut Butter Chocolate Cake – Add peanut butter frosting between layers.
• Triple Chocolate Cake – Add chocolate chips to the batter.
• Vegan Option – Use almond milk + vinegar instead of buttermilk, flax eggs, and vegan butter.

Storage & Freezing

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap cake layers tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Bring to room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I use Dutch-process cocoa instead of regular cocoa?

Yes! It will make the cake richer and darker in color.

Why is my cake batter so thin?

The hot coffee or water makes the batter thin, but it creates a super moist cake!

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! Bake the cake layers a day ahead, wrap them well, and frost the next day.

What’s the best way to frost the cake smoothly?

Chill the cake for 20 minutes before frosting for easier spreading.

Can I make cupcakes with this batter?

Yes! Bake at 350°F for 18-20 minutes for perfect cupcakes.

How do I make a thick, glossy chocolate ganache?

Heat ½ cup heavy cream and pour over 1 cup chopped chocolate, then stir until smooth.

How do I make this cake extra decadent?

Use chocolate syrup, chocolate chips, and a ganache topping!

What’s the best way to slice this cake?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean slices.

Can I use milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes! Just add 1 tbsp vinegar to 1 cup milk for a quick buttermilk substitute.

Conclusion

This Matilda’s Chocolate Cake is deeply rich, ultra-fudgy, and irresistibly chocolatey—the ultimate dessert for any chocolate lover! Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving the most indulgent chocolate cake ever, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Try it today and live out your best Bruce Bogtrotter moment!

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