Ultimate Matilda Chocolate Cake Recipe

Chocolate cake holds a special place in our hearts and on our tables, symbolizing both joy and indulgence. Among the myriad variations of this beloved dessert, the “Matilda Chocolate Cake” stands out due to its memorable association with Roald Dahl’s classic children’s book Matilda. In the story, this cake plays a pivotal role in a dramatic and inspirational scene that captures the imagination of readers. Bruce Bogtrotter, a student at Crunchem Hall Primary School, faces the wrath of the formidable headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, who forces him to eat an enormous chocolate cake as punishment for supposedly stealing a slice. Instead of being defeated, Bruce triumphantly consumes the entire cake, turning a moment of humiliation into a powerful symbol of resilience and defiance.

Inspired by this iconic scene, the Matilda Chocolate Cake has become more than just a recipe—it’s a tribute to the spirit of overcoming adversity and celebrating success. This cake is characterized by its rich, moist texture and deep, chocolatey flavor, mirroring the decadence and satisfaction described in the book. Whether for special occasions or as a personal indulgence, making this cake allows you to experience a piece of literary history and share in the triumph it represents. This guide will walk you through the process of recreating the Matilda Chocolate Cake, from selecting the finest ingredients to achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 ¾ cups (220 grams) all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups (300 grams) granulated sugar
• ¾ cup (75 grams) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) whole milk
• ½ cup (120 milliliters) vegetable oil (such as canola oil)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) boiling water

For the Chocolate Frosting:

• 1 ½ cups (340 grams) unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 4 ½ cups (500 grams) powdered sugar
• ¾ cup (75 grams) unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ cup (120 milliliters) whole milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions

Preparing the Cake:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by lining them with parchment paper and greasing them lightly.

1. Mix Dry Ingredients:

• In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Ensure that all ingredients are evenly distributed.

1. Mix Wet Ingredients:

• In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.

1. Combine Ingredients:

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Slowly stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth and thin. The batter will be quite liquid.

1. Bake:

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

Preparing the Chocolate Frosting:

1. Cream the Butter:

• In a large bowl, beat the butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until creamy and smooth.

1. Add Dry Ingredients:

• Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder to the butter, mixing on low speed until combined.

1. Add Wet Ingredients:

• Add the milk, vanilla extract, and salt to the mixture, beating on medium speed until smooth and creamy. If the frosting is too thick, add more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.

Assembling the Cake:

1. Prepare the Cake Layers:

• Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a portion of the frosting evenly over the first layer.

1. Add the Second Layer:

• Place the second cake layer on top of the frosted layer. Use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides of the cake evenly.

1. Decorate:

• Optionally, decorate the cake with chocolate shavings or sprinkles for added visual appeal. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to set the frosting before serving.

Enjoy the Cake

This cake is perfect for special occasions such as birthdays or celebrations, where its rich flavor and impressive appearance are sure to be appreciated. Enjoy a slice of this indulgent cake with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a truly delightful experience!