Matilda’s Chocolate Cake

Matilda’s Chocolate Cake is the ultimate indulgence, inspired by the iconic scene from the beloved story of Matilda by Roald Dahl. This cake is rich, moist, and intensely chocolatey, satisfying even the most passionate chocoholics. With its luscious layers and decadent frosting, this dessert is perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just as a treat for yourself.

This cake is not only a visual masterpiece but also an explosion of flavor, thanks to its velvety chocolate ganache frosting and moist cake layers. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and accessibility—you don’t need to be a professional baker to recreate this iconic dessert in your own kitchen.

Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or just to relive a bit of childhood nostalgia, Matilda’s Chocolate Cake is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the steps to make this indulgent masterpiece!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Irresistibly Chocolatey

This cake is packed with rich cocoa flavor in both the cake and the frosting, making it a chocolate lover’s dream.

Perfect Texture

The cake layers are moist and tender, balanced beautifully by the smooth and creamy ganache frosting.

Easy to Make

With straightforward steps and basic ingredients, this recipe is accessible even to beginner bakers.

Nostalgia Factor

Fans of Matilda will love recreating the famous cake scene, making this dessert as much fun to make as it is to eat.

Customizable

Add toppings like chocolate shavings, berries, or even edible glitter to make the cake uniquely yours.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Cooling Time: 1 hour
• Assembly Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours, 25 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings
• Serving Size: 1 slice

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 460 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 58g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 24g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 38g

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon espresso powder (optional, enhances chocolate flavor)
• 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

For the Ganache Frosting:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and espresso powder (if using). Whisk to combine evenly.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 4: Mix the Batter

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Slowly pour in the boiling water, mixing gently. The batter will be thin—this is normal and ensures a moist cake.

Step 5: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Make the Ganache Frosting

1. Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
2. Remove from heat and pour over the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let sit for 2 minutes.
3. Stir until smooth and glossy. Add the butter and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated. Let the ganache cool to room temperature before frosting.

Step 7: Assemble the Cake

1. Level the cake layers if necessary. Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
2. Spread a generous layer of ganache frosting on top.
3. Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining ganache.

Step 8: Decorate and Serve

Decorate with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or berries, if desired. Slice and serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.

Ingredient Background

Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder provides the deep chocolate flavor for the cake. Use high-quality cocoa for the best results.

Buttermilk: Adds tanginess and helps create a tender crumb. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes.

Bittersweet Chocolate: Perfect for ganache, bittersweet chocolate strikes the ideal balance of sweetness and richness.

Espresso Powder: Optional but enhances the depth of chocolate flavor without making the cake taste like coffee.

Technique Tips

Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: Eggs and buttermilk mix more easily and create a smoother batter when they’re at room temperature.

Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter until just combined to avoid a dense cake.

Cool the Ganache: Allow the ganache to cool to room temperature before frosting to prevent it from running off the cake.

Recipe Variations

Nutty Addition: Fold 1/2 cup of chopped hazelnuts or walnuts into the batter for added texture.

Salted Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle salted caramel over the frosted cake for a sweet-and-salty twist.

Peanut Butter Frosting: Replace the ganache with a fluffy peanut butter frosting for a chocolate-peanut butter combo.

Mini Cakes: Bake the batter in cupcake tins for individual servings. Adjust the baking time to 18–20 minutes.

Freezing and Storing

Refrigeration: Store the fully assembled cake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain its freshness. To prevent the cake from drying out, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it under a cake dome. For added convenience, slice the cake before refrigerating so you can grab individual portions without disturbing the rest of the dessert.

Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices or the entire cake. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. If freezing the whole cake, wrap it first in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil for double protection. The cake will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating Tip: This cake is best enjoyed at room temperature to fully appreciate its moist texture and rich ganache. Allow frozen slices to thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then let them sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving the cake, as this can alter the texture of the ganache and make the cake unevenly warm.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Birthday Celebration: Add a festive touch by topping the cake with colorful candles, edible confetti, or personalized cake toppers. For an extra indulgence, drizzle the cake with warm chocolate sauce or serve it alongside scoops of vanilla ice cream.

Dinner Party Finale: Impress your guests by serving the cake as the grand finale to a dinner party. Plate each slice elegantly with a dollop of fresh whipped cream, a sprinkle of chocolate shavings, and a few plump raspberries for a gourmet presentation. Pair it with espresso or a dessert wine to round out the meal.

Casual Weekend Treat: Make an ordinary weekend extraordinary by enjoying a slice with your favorite beverage. The cake pairs beautifully with a steaming cup of coffee, a frothy latte, or a glass of cold milk, making it a comforting indulgence any time of day.

Holiday Dessert: Transform the cake into a festive holiday treat by garnishing it with seasonal toppings like crushed candy canes, edible glitter, or sugared cranberries. Serve it as part of a dessert spread alongside other holiday favorites like cookies, pies, and truffles for a celebratory feast.

Special Equipment

9-Inch Cake Pans: These are the perfect size for creating evenly baked, thick layers of cake. Use nonstick or greased pans lined with parchment paper for easy removal.

Offset Spatula: This tool is essential for achieving a smooth, professional finish when spreading the ganache over the cake layers and sides. It also helps with creating clean edges for a polished look.

Cooling Racks: Proper cooling is key to preventing the layers from becoming soggy or overcooked. Cooling racks allow air to circulate around the cake, ensuring even temperature reduction before frosting.

Heatproof Bowl: When making the ganache, a heatproof bowl is indispensable for melting chocolate safely over a double boiler or with hot cream. It ensures even melting without the risk of scorching.

Pastry Bag (Optional): If you want to decorate the cake with extra flair, a pastry bag fitted with a star tip can help you pipe intricate designs or create ganache swirls for an elegant touch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, buttermilk provides a tangy flavor and tender texture. If using regular milk, add 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to make a buttermilk substitute.

2. How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?
Grease the pans well and line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.

3. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! Bake the layers a day in advance and store them wrapped in plastic wrap. Frost the cake the day of serving.

4. What if I don’t have a springform pan?
A regular 9-inch cake pan works perfectly. Just make sure to line the bottom with parchment paper for easy release.

5. Can I use milk chocolate for the ganache?
Yes, but milk chocolate will create a sweeter frosting. Adjust the sugar in the recipe accordingly if you prefer less sweetness.

6. How can I make this cake gluten-free?
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.

7. How do I store leftover ganache?
Keep leftover ganache in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat gently to return it to a spreadable consistency.

8. Can I decorate the cake with fruit?
Absolutely! Fresh berries like raspberries, strawberries, or cherries make excellent toppings that complement the chocolate.

Conclusion

Matilda’s Chocolate Cake is a celebration of rich, indulgent flavors and textures that evoke childhood nostalgia and pure joy. Whether you’re recreating the magic of the classic story or simply satisfying a chocolate craving, this cake delivers the perfect balance of moist cake and luscious ganache frosting.

Its versatility makes it a fantastic choice for all occasions, from casual family gatherings to elaborate holiday feasts. With simple, accessible ingredients and a straightforward method, anyone can achieve a professional-quality dessert at home.

Treat yourself and your loved ones to a slice of this decadent delight. Once you’ve experienced the unparalleled richness of Matilda’s Chocolate Cake, it’s bound to become a favorite recipe in your baking repertoire.