Easy Matilda’s Chocolate Cake

If you have ever dreamed of recreating the famously rich chocolate cake from the Matilda movie scene this easy version brings that fantasy to life You get thick chocolate layers and a glossy fudge frosting for the ultimate decadent treat

I made this the first time for my niece after a movie night and now it is our special tradition Whenever someone craves a chocolate fix this cake is always the answer

Ingredients

• Granulated sugar: ensures sweetness and tenderness Sugar from a fresh package will blend best
• All-purpose flour: gives structure to the cake Always spoon and level the flour for accuracy
• Dutch-process cocoa powder: delivers deep chocolate taste Pick a high-quality brand for best color and flavor
• Baking powder: helps the cake rise Look for aluminum-free for a cleaner taste
• Baking soda: activates the cocoa and adds lift Check expiration for optimal results
• Salt: balances sweetness and brings out chocolate flavor Flake or fine sea salt works well
• Vegetable oil: provides moisture and keeps the cake tender Pick a neutral-flavored oil
• Eggs: add richness and stability Use large eggs at room temperature for best mixing
• Pure vanilla extract: rounds out chocolate with warm notes Go for real vanilla not imitation
• Buttermilk: gives a tangy touch and creates soft crumb Room temperature buttermilk incorporates smoothly
• Hot brewed coffee: intensifies chocolate flavor Strong fresh coffee works best
• Baking spray: helps cake release cleanly from pans A good nonstick spray is essential
• Chocolate fudge frosting: delivers that iconic glossy finish Use your favorite homemade or store-bought recipe

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Pans:

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit Cut two circles of parchment paper to fit the bottoms of your eight-inch round cake pans Spray the pans and paper thoroughly with baking spray so the cake lifts out effortlessly

Mix the Dry Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl whisk together the flour cocoa powder sugar baking powder baking soda and salt Continue whisking for about one minute to fully blend the ingredients which ensures a smooth even crumb

Combine with Wet Ingredients:

Pour in the vegetable oil stirring until every bit of the dry mix is coated Next add the eggs and vanilla extract Stir thoroughly so the eggs are fully incorporated and the batter starts to look glossy

Add Buttermilk and Coffee:

Gently stir in the room temperature buttermilk The batter may look a bit thick Carefully pour in the hot brewed coffee mixing slowly until the mixture is smooth and silky The coffee will loosen the batter and enhance the chocolate notes

Bake the Cakes:

Evenly divide the batter between the prepared pans Use a rubber spatula to smooth the tops Place both pans in the center of the oven Bake for thirty to thirty five minutes Rotate the pans halfway through for even baking When a toothpick poked in the center comes out with moist crumbs you are done

Cool and Frost:

Allow cake layers to rest in their pans for about ten minutes before turning out onto a cooling rack Wait until completely cool before frosting Generously spread the chocolate fudge frosting between layers and over the entire cake for that classic look

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My favorite part of this recipe is swirling the fudge frosting over the top It always reminds me of my younger brother trying to sneak a taste before the cake was set out for dessert If you love chocolate this cake will become a house favorite too

Storage Tips

For best freshness keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature and enjoy within four days For longer storage wrap individual slices in plastic and heavy-duty foil then freeze for up to two months Thaw slices at room temperature with the wrapping off for the best texture The fudge frosting also holds up beautifully after freezing

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have buttermilk easily substitute by adding one tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to one cup of whole milk Let it sit for a few minutes before using If you need to skip the coffee replace it with hot water Although coffee deepens the chocolate flavor the cake will still turn out delicious

Serving Suggestions

Serve this cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream Fresh berries offer a tart contrast to the rich chocolate For celebrations try decorating with chocolate shavings or colorful sprinkles

Cultural and Movie Memories

This cake is inspired by the now iconic scene in the Matilda movie that made all childhood viewers dream of chocolate Layered with fudge and intensity it captures that sense of mischievous joy Whether for birthday parties or themed movie nights this treat brings people together

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Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ How do I ensure my cake stays moist?

Combine buttermilk and hot coffee for extra moisture, and avoid overbaking. Cool in the pans briefly before transferring to a rack.

→ Can I substitute Dutch-process cocoa powder?

Natural cocoa powder can be used in a pinch, but Dutch-process gives a deeper chocolate flavor and softer crumb.

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

Let cake layers cool completely, then use an offset spatula to spread the fudge frosting generously between and over the layers.

→ How should I store leftover cake?

Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or freeze individual slices for up to two months.

→ Can I make a buttermilk substitute?

Yes, add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to a cup of milk, let it sit for a few minutes, and use in place of buttermilk.