Go Back

Matilda's Chocolate Cake

A rich and decadent chocolate cake that is simple to make and perfect for any occasion, inspired by Roald Dahl's beloved character Matilda.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Birthday, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cake Ingredients
  • 1.75 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1.5 cups granulated sugar
  • 0.75 cups unsweetened cocoa powder High-quality cocoa is recommended.
  • 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1.5 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup whole milk Can substitute with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
  • 0.5 cups vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup boiling water Contributes to the cake's moist texture.
Frosting Ingredients
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3.5 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 0.5 cups heavy cream
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans for easy release.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk until fully combined.
  3. Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat the mixture on medium speed for about 2 minutes until well blended.
  4. Carefully stir in the boiling water. Note that the batter will be quite thin, which contributes to the cake’s moist texture.
  5. Distribute the batter evenly between the two prepared pans.
Baking
  1. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Frosting Preparation
  1. While the cakes are baking, prepare the chocolate fudge frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, alternating with the heavy cream. Mix until the frosting is fluffy and then stir in the vanilla extract.
Assembly
  1. Once the cakes have cooled completely, gently remove them from the pans.
  2. Place one layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of frosting on top.
  3. Carefully set the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake generously.
  4. Decorate the cake as desired using sprinkles, chocolate shavings, or fresh fruit. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

For added flavor and moisture, consider adding a layer of fruit jam between the cake layers before frosting. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.