Matilda Chocolate Cake: The Best Homemade Chocolate Cake Recipe
There’s something irresistibly nostalgic about a movie-inspired dessert, and the Matilda Chocolate Cake is no exception. This homemade chocolate cake recipe is a rich, fudgy, and moist masterpiece, featuring tender, fluffy layers smothered in glossy chocolate fudge frosting.
Each bite delivers deep chocolate flavor and melts in your mouth, making it the ultimate indulgence for any chocolate lover. Inspired by the famous scene in Matilda, where Bruce devours an enormous chocolate cake, this dessert is perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or a personal chocolate craving fix.
Made with simple pantry ingredients, this moist chocolate cake strikes the perfect balance between sweet and decadent. Unlike traditional cakes that sometimes have a grainy texture, this one is exceptionally creamy, smooth, and indulgent.
Why This is the Best Chocolate Cake Recipe
1. Perfect Balance of Flavor & Texture
A tremendous homemade chocolate cake should have the perfect contrast between a soft, tender crumb and silky-smooth frosting. This recipe guarantees moistness without density, creating an airy yet rich texture in every bite.
2. Rich, Decadent Chocolate Flavor
Each layer is packed with intense chocolate goodness from Dutch cocoa powder and dark chocolate, making it fudgy, luscious, and satisfying. A sour cream enhances depth and creaminess, giving it a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
3. Glossy Chocolate Fudge Frosting
The homemade chocolate frosting is shiny, spreadable, and ultra-decadent, making it irresistible. Inspired by Matilda, this fudgy chocolate frosting turns the cake into a show-stopping dessert for any occasion.
4. Quick, Easy & Beginner-Friendly
No complicated steps or fancy techniques—even beginner bakers can nail this easy chocolate cake recipe! It’s fuss-free, requiring just one bowl, a whisk, and minimal cleanup.
5. Super Moist Texture & Rich Frosting
The oil-based batter keeps the cake extra moist, while the frosting—similar to American buttercream—is elevated with melted chocolate for an even richer taste.
6. Perfect for Any Occasion
This cake comes together effortlessly, making it ideal for last-minute celebrations, bake sales, or satisfying a serious chocolate craving. Whether you’re reminiscing about your favorite childhood movie or just needing a classic homemade chocolate cake, this recipe delivers every time.
The Key Ingredients for the Ultimate Chocolate Cake
Cake Base Ingredients
To create the perfect moist chocolate cake, you’ll need these essential ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (sifted for a smooth texture)
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 ½ tsp baking soda (creates a light, fluffy texture)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ⅔ cup light brown sugar (adds moisture & depth)
- 1 tsp salt (enhances flavor)
- ⅔ cup vegetable oil (for a super moist cake)
- 1 cup sour cream (adds richness)
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup buttermilk (keeps the cake soft & tender)
- ¾ cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder (for deep chocolate flavor)
- 300g dark chocolate (melted for an intense chocolate taste)
- 2 tsp instant coffee (enhances chocolate depth)
Chocolate Fudge Frosting Ingredients
A good frosting is just as important as the cake itself!
- ⅓ cup cocoa powder
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 8 oz cream cheese (for creaminess)
- 1 ¼ cup heavy cream (for richness)
- 3 tbsp corn syrup (ensures a glossy texture)
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 14.1 oz dark chocolate (melted for deep chocolate flavor)
- Pinch of kosher salt (balances sweetness)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (enhances overall flavor)
Pro Tips for the Perfect Texture
✔ Sift the flour before mixing to prevent lumps.
✔ Melt chocolate and let it cool slightly before adding to the batter.
✔ Avoid overmixing to maintain a light, tender crumb.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Best Chocolate Cake
1. Preparing the Cake Pans
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2️⃣ Line two 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper and butter to prevent sticking.
2. Mixing the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
✅ Flour
✅ Baking soda
✅ Granulated sugar
✅ Cocoa powder
✅ Salt
3. Mixing the Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together:
✅ Eggs
✅ Vegetable oil
✅ Buttermilk
✅ Vanilla extract
4. Combining Wet & Dry Ingredients
1️⃣ Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently to avoid overmixing.
2️⃣ Stir until the batter is smooth and lump-free.
5. Baking the Cake
1️⃣ Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans.
2️⃣ Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with moist crumbs attached.
3️⃣ Let cakes cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes before removing from pans.
Making the Frosting
1. Melting the Chocolate
1️⃣ Melt dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl, stirring until smooth.
2. Mixing the Frosting
1️⃣ Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and heavy cream until light and fluffy.
2️⃣ Add the melted chocolate and mix until smooth and spreadable.
3️⃣ Refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to thicken slightly (but don’t let it harden).
Assembling the Cake
1. Leveling the Cake Layers
- Once completely cooled, trim the domes off the cake layers for an even stack.
2. Frosting the Cake
1️⃣ Place one cake layer on a plate and spread a generous layer of frosting on top.
2️⃣ Add the second cake layer, then frost the top and sides evenly.
3️⃣ Use an offset spatula or serrated knife to create a smooth finish.
3. Setting the Cake
- Freeze for 30 minutes to firm up the frosting before serving.
4. Storing the Cake
✔ At room temperature for up to 2 days (covered).
✔ In the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
✔ Freeze for up to 3 months (wrap slices in plastic wrap & store in an airtight container).
Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love This Cake
This Matilda Chocolate Cake is an absolute must-try for any chocolate lover. It’s:
✔ Ultra-rich & fudgy
✔ Moist & tender
✔ Easy to make
✔ Perfect for any occasion
So, whether you’re baking for a party or just yourself, this homemade chocolate cake recipe is pure chocolate heaven! 🍫🎂✨
(FAQs) About Matilda Chocolate Cake
Q1. Why is Matilda Chocolate Cake the Best Moist Chocolate Cake Recipe?
Matilda Chocolate Cake is one of the best homemade chocolate cakes because of its ultra-moist texture, deep chocolate flavor, and glossy fudge frosting. Unlike traditional chocolate cakes that are sometimes dry or grainy, this fudgy chocolate cake recipe uses Dutch cocoa powder, real dark chocolate, sour cream, and buttermilk to create a super soft, bakery-style consistency. The shiny, spreadable fudge frosting adds another layer of decadence, making it irresistible for any chocolate lover.
Q2. Can I Make This Chocolate Cake Without Buttermilk or Sour Cream?
Yes! Buttermilk and sour cream add moisture and richness to the cake, but you can substitute them if needed.
✔ If you don’t have buttermilk, replace it with 1 cup of milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar.
✔ If you don’t have sour cream, use Greek yogurt as a 1:1 replacement.
These swaps maintain the cake’s moist, fluffy texture while keeping the flavor rich and indulgent.
Q3. What is the Best Cocoa Powder for a Rich Chocolate Flavor?
It’s best to use Dutch-processed cocoa powder for the most profound chocolate taste. Unlike regular cocoa powder, Dutch-processed cocoa has been treated with alkali to neutralize acidity, resulting in a smoother, less bitter taste and a darker, richer color. It enhances the fudginess of the cake, making it a top choice for homemade chocolate cakes.
Q4. How to Keep Chocolate Cake Moist for Days (Best Storage Tips)
To keep your chocolate cake moist and fresh, follow these simple storage tips:
✔ Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to prevent drying.
✔ Store at room temperature for up to 2 days, in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
✔ If refrigerated, allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
These proper storage methods ensure your cake stays soft, moist, and flavorful for as long as possible.
Q5. Does Coffee Make Chocolate Cake Taste Better? Can I Skip It?
Yes! Coffee is a secret ingredient that enhances the depth of chocolate flavor without making the cake taste like coffee. It brings out the bitterness of the cocoa, creating a richer, more intense chocolate taste.
✔ If you don’t want to use coffee, you can substitute it with hot water or milk without affecting the cake’s texture. However, for the deepest chocolate flavor, coffee is highly recommended.
Q6. What Is the Best Frosting for Chocolate Cake? (Alternatives to Fudge Frosting)
While chocolate fudge frosting is the signature frosting for Matilda Chocolate Cake, you can experiment with different frostings based on your preference:
✔ Cream cheese frosting – Adds a tangy contrast to the rich chocolate.
✔ Whipped chocolate ganache – A silkier, less sweet finish for a gourmet touch.
✔ Peanut butter frosting – A delicious chocolate-peanut butter combo for a bold flavor.
✔ Classic buttercream frosting – A lighter, sweet vanilla contrast to balance the chocolate.
Each of these frosting options complements the moist, fudgy cake texture, making them perfect alternatives to chocolate fudge frosting.
Q7. How to Frost a Chocolate Cake Like a Pro (No Mess & Easy Tips!)
For a professional-looking frosted cake, follow these simple steps:
✔ Chill the cake layers before frosting to prevent crumbling.
✔ Use an offset spatula to spread the frosting for a smooth finish evenly.
✔ Apply a crumb coat (a thin layer of frosting) and let it set before adding the final layer.
✔ Freeze the cake 30 minutes after frosting to help it firm up before slicing.
Following these frosting techniques, you’ll get a beautifully decorated cake with a smooth, polished finish, just like a bakery-style chocolate cake!
Matilda Chocolate Cake
Equipment
- Oven (for baking the cake)
- Two 8-inch cake pans (or alternatives).
- Parchment paper and butter for greasing the pans.
- Mixing bowls for the cake batter and frosting.
- Stand mixer or hand mixer for the frosting.
- Whisk for mixing the dry ingredients and frosting.
- Serrated knife for trimming cake domes and frosting decoration.
- Cooling rack for cake cooling.
- Microwave for melting chocolate (optional).
- Cake holder for storage.
Ingredients
- Cake Base Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1.5 tsp baking powder
- 1.5 tsp baking soda
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ⅔ cup light brown sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- ⅔ cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup sour cream
- 3 large eggs room temperature
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ¾ cup Dutch processed cocoa powder
- 300 g dark chocolate
- 2 tsp instant coffee
- Chocolate Fudge Frosting Ingredients
- ⅓ cup cocoa powder
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 ¼ cup heavy cream
- 3 tbsp corn syrup
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 14.1 oz dark chocolate
- pinch kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Additional Ingredients for Smooth Texture
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 stick unsalted butter
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- Final Frosting Touch
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup dark cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preparing the Cake
- Preheat oven to 350F.
- Prepare two 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper and butter.
- Whisk dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, salt.
- Mix wet ingredients: 2 eggs, vegetable oil, buttermilk, vanilla extract.
- Combine dry and wet ingredients, stir until smooth.
- Pour batter into pans and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Cool cakes for 10 minutes.
- Making the Frosting
- Melt dark chocolate.
- Mix with cream cheese, heavy cream, and powdered sugar.
- Refrigerate frosting until spreadable.
- Assembling the Cake
- Trim domes with a serrated knife.
- Layer frosting between cake layers and decorate.
- Freeze for 30 minutes to set.
- Serve and store in a cake holder for up to 3 months.
Notes
If the frosting hardens too much, you can microwave a bit of it and mix it back into the rest to make it smooth again.
For a more firm ganache, the cake can be refrigerated instead of stored at room temperature.
Nutrition Values (approximate per serving):
Calories: 200-300 kcal per slice.Fat: 10-15g
Carbohydrates: 25-35g
Protein: 2-4g
Sugar: 20-30g
Fiber: 2-3g
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