The Matilda Chocolate Cake isn’t just any dessert—it’s a chocolate lover’s dream come true. Inspired by the iconic scene from the movie Matilda, this cake is rich, moist, and topped with a luscious fudge frosting that melts in your mouth. For fans of the movie or anyone who loves decadent desserts, this recipe will transport you back to the nostalgia of childhood.
If you’re new to baking, consider brushing up on the essentials with guides like tips, recipes, and hacks, which cover kitchen fundamentals to make your cooking journey smoother.
Why Matilda Chocolate Cake is the Perfect Decadent Dessert
What makes the Matilda Chocolate Cake unforgettable?
- Unparalleled richness: Every bite offers the perfect balance of moist chocolate cake and glossy fudge frosting.
- Perfect for every occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or simply a way to satisfy your chocolate cravings, this cake is ideal.
- Simple yet indulgent: Using accessible ingredients, you can achieve bakery-level results at home.
Furthermore, for an in-depth look at baking with chocolate, check out this guide on chocolate rice cakes, which offers a healthy twist on chocolate treats.
Ingredients for the Best Matilda Chocolate Cake Recipe
To achieve the rich flavor and moist texture of the Matilda Chocolate Cake, it’s essential to use the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Dutch-processed cocoa powder: This type of cocoa provides a deeper flavor and a dark, luxurious color. If you’re unsure how to use it, you can learn more about blooming cocoa powder from resources like Cooking Techniques.
- Buttermilk and sour cream: These add moisture and a slight tang that balances the sweetness.
- High-quality chocolate: Opt for dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for the frosting.
- Coffee: Enhances the chocolate flavor without adding a noticeable coffee taste.
In addition, for more inspiration, consider pairing this dessert with something savory like slow cooker collard greens, which offer a hearty contrast.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Matilda Chocolate Cake
Ingredients for the Cake and Frosting
| Cake Ingredients | Frosting Ingredients |
|---|---|
| 2 cups all-purpose flour | 8 oz cream cheese (room temp) |
| ¾ cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder | 1¼ cup heavy cream (chilled) |
| 1 cup granulated sugar | 300 g dark chocolate (melted) |
| ⅔ cup light brown sugar | ⅓ cup cocoa powder |
| 1½ tsp baking soda | 3 tbsp corn syrup |
| 1½ tsp baking powder | 1 cup powdered sugar |
| 1 tsp salt | |
| 3 large eggs | |
| ⅔ cup vegetable oil | |
| ⅓ cup buttermilk | |
| 1 cup sour cream | |
| ¾ cup hot water mixed with 2 tsp instant coffee |
How to Make the Perfect Chocolate Cake Inspired by Matilda
Cake Layers:
- To begin, preheat the oven to 350°F. Prepare three 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, sugars, and salt.
- Meanwhile, in a separate bowl, whisk the wet ingredients: eggs, vegetable oil, sour cream, and buttermilk.
- Gradually combine the wet and dry mixtures, ensuring not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
- Next, stir the hot coffee mixture into the batter. This step helps to bring out the chocolate’s deep flavor.
- Divide the batter evenly among the pans and bake for 22–24 minutes. Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting.
Frosting:
- First, melt the dark chocolate with corn syrup over low heat and set aside to cool slightly.
- Beat cream cheese, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and salt in a mixer until smooth.
- Afterward, slowly add the heavy cream and whip until the mixture becomes fluffy.
- Gradually pour in the melted chocolate, mixing on low speed until combined. Chill the frosting for 15–20 minutes before spreading.
Assembly:
- To assemble, level the cooled cakes with a serrated knife for even layers.
- Spread frosting generously between the layers and over the entire cake.
- For a professional look, smooth the frosting with a hot spatula or add texture using the back of a spoon.
Creative Variations of Matilda Chocolate Cake
If you’re looking to make this cake even more unique, consider these fun variations:
- Salted caramel addition: Add a layer of salted caramel between the cake layers for a sweet-and-salty combination.
- Nutty crunch: Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts or almonds on top for texture.
- Cupcake version: Turn the recipe into cupcakes for easy serving at parties.
For even more creative recipes, browse the volcano roll recipe for a savory treat with a twist.
FAQs About Matilda Chocolate Cake
What is the chocolate cake in Matilda made of?
The Matilda chocolate cake is one of the most iconic desserts in cinematic history, featured prominently in the beloved 1996 film based on Roald Dahl’s novel. This towering, fudgy cake captures the essence of indulgence, symbolizing both decadence and resilience. But what exactly is this famous chocolate cake made of? Let’s dive into the ingredients and process that bring this rich, moist masterpiece to life.
A Cake of Unforgettable Decadence
The Matilda chocolate cake is no ordinary dessert. In the film, it’s a rich, velvety creation slathered with thick, shiny chocolate frosting. While the exact recipe used in the movie isn’t explicitly revealed, we can create a version inspired by the cake’s appearance and the qualities that make it unforgettable: richness, moistness, and an intense chocolate flavor.
Ingredients in the Iconic Matilda Chocolate Cake
The foundation of any great chocolate cake lies in its ingredients. The Matilda chocolate cake relies on a combination of essential baking staples and decadent additions to achieve its signature texture and flavor. Here’s a breakdown of what goes into making a cake that could rival the one Bruce Bogtrotter devoured:
1. Flour
The structure of the cake comes from all-purpose flour, which provides the base for the batter. A balance between flour and other ingredients ensures the cake remains moist yet sturdy enough to hold its shape.
2. Cocoa Powder
The deep, rich chocolate flavor is achieved using high-quality cocoa powder. Dutch-processed cocoa powder is often preferred because it has a smoother, less acidic taste and a darker color, which mirrors the luscious look of the cake in the film.
3. Sugar (White and Brown)
The sweetness in the cake is enhanced by a combination of white granulated sugar and brown sugar. While the granulated sugar provides sweetness, the brown sugar contributes moisture and depth, adding a subtle molasses flavor.
4. Eggs
Eggs are essential for binding the ingredients together and creating a tender crumb. They also contribute to the cake’s rise, ensuring it is fluffy yet rich.
5. Buttermilk and Sour Cream
These two ingredients are the secret to the cake’s moist, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Buttermilk adds tanginess, which balances the sweetness, while sour cream makes the crumb incredibly soft.
6. Vegetable Oil
Unlike butter, vegetable oil ensures the cake stays moist for days. It’s the key to achieving that fudgy, rich consistency that defines the Matilda chocolate cake.
7. Coffee (Optional but Recommended)
Adding coffee to the batter enhances the chocolate flavor, making it deeper and more complex. Don’t worry—it won’t make the cake taste like coffee. Instead, it amplifies the cocoa’s richness.
8. Baking Powder and Baking Soda
These leavening agents work together to help the cake rise evenly, creating a light and airy texture despite its dense, fudgy appearance.
The Frosting: A Key Component
No Matilda chocolate cake would be complete without its thick, shiny frosting. The frosting in the movie is dark, glossy, and spread generously over the entire cake, making it as irresistible as the cake itself. Here’s what goes into the frosting:
1. Dark Chocolate
The base of the frosting is melted dark chocolate, which gives it a rich, bittersweet flavor. Using high-quality chocolate with at least 70% cocoa ensures a luxurious taste.
2. Cocoa Powder
To intensify the chocolate flavor, cocoa powder is added to the frosting mixture. This creates a depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the cake.
3. Cream Cheese
Cream cheese is often used in chocolate frosting to add creaminess and a slight tang, balancing the sweetness of the chocolate.
4. Heavy Cream
Heavy cream helps achieve the frosting’s smooth, spreadable consistency. It also makes the frosting lighter and silkier, which contrasts beautifully with the dense cake layers.
5. Corn Syrup (Optional)
A touch of corn syrup gives the frosting its shiny appearance, ensuring that it looks as good as it tastes.
Making the Matilda Chocolate Cake
Recreating the Matilda chocolate cake at home is surprisingly straightforward if you follow a reliable recipe. Here’s a general overview of the process:
- Prepare the Batter: Combine the dry ingredients (flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and baking soda) in one bowl and the wet ingredients (buttermilk, sour cream, oil, eggs, and coffee) in another. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry, being careful not to overmix.
- Bake the Cake: Divide the batter evenly between three cake pans and bake at 350°F for 22–25 minutes. The cakes should be moist but fully set in the center.
- Make the Frosting: Melt the chocolate and combine it with the cream cheese, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and heavy cream. Beat the mixture until smooth and fluffy.
- Assemble the Cake: Once the cake layers have cooled, spread a generous amount of frosting between each layer. Coat the entire cake with frosting, smoothing it out for a polished finish.
Conclusion
The chocolate cake in Matilda is more than just a dessert—it’s a symbol of indulgence, resilience, and joy. Made with a blend of high-quality cocoa powder, buttermilk, sour cream, and dark chocolate, this cake is a true celebration of chocolate. Whether you’re baking it to relive a nostalgic moment from the movie or simply to enjoy a decadent treat, the Matilda chocolate cake will undoubtedly be a crowd-pleaser.
So gather your ingredients, channel your inner Bruce Bogtrotter, and get ready to create a chocolate masterpiece that’s worthy of the big screen!
Why is it called a Matilda cake?
The Matilda cake, or more accurately the Matilda chocolate cake, owes its name and fame to the beloved 1996 movie Matilda. Based on Roald Dahl’s novel of the same name, the film features a memorable scene that prominently showcases this towering, rich chocolate cake. The cake plays a significant role in the story, becoming a symbol of resilience, indulgence, and triumph. But why exactly is it called the Matilda cake? Let’s explore the cultural and cinematic significance behind this name.
The Origins: Matilda and the Famous Chocolate Cake
The name “Matilda cake” is a direct reference to the movie Matilda, where the chocolate cake is prominently featured in a pivotal scene. In the film, Matilda Wormwood, a highly intelligent and brave young girl, attends a school run by the tyrannical headmistress Miss Trunchbull. The cake becomes the center of attention during an unforgettable moment involving Bruce Bogtrotter, one of Matilda’s schoolmates.
Miss Trunchbull accuses Bruce of stealing a slice of her prized chocolate cake. As punishment, she forces him to eat an entire, enormous chocolate cake in front of the whole school. Despite the seemingly impossible challenge, Bruce perseveres and finishes the cake, much to the delight of his peers and the frustration of Miss Trunchbull. The scene cements the cake’s place in pop culture as an iconic symbol of resilience and victory against oppressive authority.
Because of its association with this famous scene, the dessert is often referred to as the Matilda cake. Fans of the movie use the name to describe a chocolate cake that is over-the-top indulgent, rich, and reminiscent of the one featured in the film.
A Symbol of Chocolate Decadence
The cake in Matilda isn’t just any chocolate cake—it’s a masterpiece of decadence. Its visual appeal and sheer size make it memorable. Many fans of the movie recall its glossy chocolate frosting, dense layers, and larger-than-life appearance, making it the ultimate symbol of indulgence.
In pop culture, the name “Matilda cake” has become synonymous with a chocolate cake that is:
- Rich and moist, with a deep chocolate flavor.
- Layered generously with thick, shiny fudge frosting.
- Impressive in size, often towering and perfect for sharing at celebrations.
This dessert has transcended the movie, inspiring home bakers and professionals to recreate their versions of the Matilda chocolate cake. For many, calling it a “Matilda cake” immediately evokes memories of the film and its iconic scene.
The Nostalgic Connection
Part of what makes the Matilda cake so special is the nostalgic connection it holds for those who grew up watching the movie. The chocolate cake isn’t just a dessert—it’s a reminder of childhood, resilience, and standing up against adversity. When people bake or eat a “Matilda cake,” they often do so as a tribute to the joy and inspiration the movie brought into their lives.
Even today, decades after the film’s release, the Matilda chocolate cake remains a cultural touchstone. Fans continue to associate it with themes of triumph and indulgence, making it a favorite recipe for birthdays, parties, and other special occasions.
A Cake Worth Recreating
Calling a chocolate cake a “Matilda cake” doesn’t just refer to its appearance or flavor—it’s about the story and sentiment behind it. Many recipes inspired by the Matilda chocolate cake aim to capture its indulgent essence, often featuring:
- Dutch-processed cocoa powder for a deep, rich chocolate taste.
- Buttermilk and sour cream to keep the layers moist and tender.
- Dark chocolate ganache or fudge frosting for a shiny, irresistible finish.
The name itself has become shorthand for a cake that is as bold, decadent, and memorable as the one from the movie.
Conclusion
The term Matilda cake is more than just a name—it’s a tribute to one of the most iconic desserts in cinematic history. Inspired by the chocolate cake in the movie Matilda, this indulgent dessert has earned its place as a symbol of celebration, resilience, and nostalgia. Whether you’re recreating it for a special occasion or simply indulging in its rich chocolate layers, the Matilda cake is a delicious reminder of the enduring charm of Roald Dahl’s story.
So, the next time you hear someone mention a Matilda cake, you’ll know it’s not just a dessert—it’s a piece of pop culture history.
Why is my chocolate cake dry?
Dryness can occur if you overmix the batter or overbake the cake. Therefore, it’s crucial to monitor baking time carefully and avoid overworking the ingredients.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Wrap the cake layers in plastic wrap and store them in the fridge for up to two days. Frost before serving for the freshest taste.
Conclusion
The Matilda Chocolate Cake is more than a dessert—it’s an experience. Its rich, moist layers and decadent frosting make it a showstopper for any occasion. Whether you’re a fan of the movie or simply a chocolate enthusiast, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
As a final suggestion, explore more creative recipes on Collective Recipes, where you’ll find everything from sweet treats to hearty meals. With its nostalgic charm and indulgent flavors, the Matilda Chocolate Cake is sure to become your go-to recipe.