Matilda Cake: Ultimate Chocolate Cake

If you’re craving a rich, decadent dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, this Matilda Cake is the answer. Inspired by the famous chocolate cake from Matilda, this chocolate cake recipe brings together the perfect balance of moist chocolate cake layers and chocolate fudge frosting. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this cake never disappoints.

What makes this cake truly special is its ultimate chocolate flavor thanks to the addition of dark chocolate and instant coffee, each bite is indulgent and full of depth. Plus, it’s surprisingly quick to make, so you won’t have to spend all day in the kitchen to enjoy a slice of pure bliss. Ready to create the best Matilda chocolate cake you’ve ever tasted? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Matilda Cake Recipe

This Matilda Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience you’ll savor with every bite. Here’s why it’s the perfect choice for any occasion:

• Irresistible Moistness: The cake layers are incredibly moist, thanks to ingredients like sour cream and buttermilk. These create a soft, tender texture that will make each slice melt in your mouth.
  
• Ultimate Chocolate Flavor: This isn’t just any chocolate cake. With dark chocolate, Dutch-processed cocoa, and a hint of instant coffee, you get an incredibly rich flavor that takes your taste buds on a journey. It’s a true chocolate lover’s dream.
  
• Easy to Make: Even though the cake feels indulgent, it’s surprisingly simple to prepare. From mixing the chocolate cake batter to layering it with luscious chocolate fudge frosting, the steps are straightforward perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers alike.
  
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, a special celebration, or just a craving for something decadent, this Matilda chocolate cake always fits the bill. You can even make it in advance; it only gets better the next day!
  
• Versatility with Frosting: The chocolate fudge frosting can be customized to suit your preference. If you like your cake a bit sweeter or richer, feel free to adjust the amount of frosting between the layers. You can even add extra toppings like fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel for an extra special touch.
  

This recipe isn’t just about making a cake; it’s about creating a memorable dessert that will impress friends and family. Ready to see why this Matilda Cake is considered the best chocolate cake? Let’s dive into the ingredients!

Essential Ingredients for the Best Matilda Cake

Before you dive into the magic of making this Matilda Cake, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need. The list may seem long, but don’t worry each ingredient plays a key role in making this cake irresistible. Here’s what you’ll need to create the perfect chocolate cake layers and that rich chocolate fudge frosting:

For the Chocolate Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (260g), sifted
  
• 1.5 tsp baking powder
  
• 1.5 tsp baking soda
  
• 1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
  
• 2/3 cup light brown sugar (135g)
  
• 1 tsp salt
  
• 3 large eggs (preferably room temperature)
  
• ⅔ cup vegetable oil (133g)
  
• 1/3 cup buttermilk (mix 1/3 cup whole milk and 1 tsp vinegar)
  
• 1 cup sour cream (240g), ideally room temperature
  
• 3/4 cup cocoa powder (Dutch-processed preferred, 75g)
  
• 2 tsp instant coffee
  
• 3/4 cup boiling water (180g)
  

For the Chocolate Fudge Frosting:

• 300g dark chocolate
  
• 3 tbsp corn syrup
  
• 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature (226g)
  
• 1/3 cup cocoa powder (33g)
  
• 1 cup powdered sugar (100g)
  
• 1/4 tsp salt
  
• 1 1/4 cup heavy cream, chilled
  

Ingredient Tips:

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs, sour cream, and buttermilk are at room temperature before mixing. This helps everything combine smoothly, giving you that perfect moist chocolate cake texture.
  
• Cocoa Powder: For the best flavor, try using Dutch-processed cocoa. It’s a bit milder and results in a darker, richer cake. But if you can’t find it, regular unsweetened cocoa powder works just fine.
  
• Instant Coffee: Don’t worry if you’re not a coffee drinker this ingredient just enhances the chocolate flavor. It’s not about tasting coffee but bringing out the deep, rich chocolate flavor that makes this cake so memorable.
  

Now that you’ve got all your ingredients ready, you’re one step closer to creating the best Matilda chocolate cake ever! 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Matilda Cake

With all the ingredients prepared, it’s time to start baking! This Matilda Cake comes together in just a few easy steps, but the results are nothing short of spectacular. Let’s walk through the process step-by-step to ensure you achieve that perfect, moist chocolate cake with rich chocolate fudge frosting.

Part 1: Preparing the Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (no fan). This temperature ensures that the cake bakes evenly, giving you that perfectly moist chocolate cake texture.
  
• Grease and line three 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper and butter. This will prevent the cake from sticking and make it easy to remove after baking.
  

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the sifted flour, baking powder, baking soda, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and salt.
  
• Use a whisk to mix everything together, making sure there are no lumps. This is the base for your chocolate cake layers.
  

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

• Whisk the eggs, vegetable oil, buttermilk, and sour cream together in a separate bowl.
• Make sure the mixture is smooth. The sour cream helps create a super moist cake, while the oil ensures it stays soft and tender.
  

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients 

• Pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture in two parts, folding gently to blend them together. Be careful not to overmix this will keep your cake light and fluffy, with no dense or dry spots.
  

Part 2: Baking and Frosting the Cake

Step 5: Add the Cocoa Mixture

• In a small bowl, mix together the cocoa powder and instant coffee. Pour over the boiling water and whisk until smooth and shiny.
  
• Now, pour the cocoa mixture into the batter, folding it in gently. This creates the signature Matilda chocolate cake texture moist and full of deep chocolate flavor.
  

Step 6: Bake the Cake

• Distribute the batter equally among the three prepared pans.
  
• Bake for 22-24 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.
  
• Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 20 minutes, then carefully remove them and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. If you’re in a rush, you can even refrigerate the cakes for an hour to speed up the process.
  

Step 7: Prepare the Chocolate Fudge Frosting

• While your cakes are cooling, it’s time to make that decadent chocolate fudge frosting.
  
• In a saucepan, melt the dark chocolate and corn syrup over low heat, stirring constantly. Set aside to cool slightly.
  
• In a stand mixer, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Sift in the cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and salt, then mix until creamy.
  
• Add the chilled heavy cream and whisk on low speed until you achieve a light, fluffy consistency.
  
• Gradually add the melted chocolate mixture, mixing until fully combined.
  

Step 8: Frost the Cake

• Once the cakes are completely cool, use a serrated knife to carefully trim the domes off the cakes so that they’re even.
  
• Set the first cake layer on a plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of chocolate fudge frosting on top. Repeat with the next layer, and finish with the final cake layer.
  
• Apply a crumb coat by covering the entire cake with a thin layer of frosting. Refrigerate the cake for 20 minutes to allow the frosting to set.
• Finally, spread the remaining frosting all over the cake, smoothing the top and sides.
  

You’re all done! Ready to cut into this indulgent Matilda chocolate cake and enjoy the delicious layers?

Pro Tips and Variations for Matilda Cake

This Matilda Cake is already a showstopper on its own, but here are a few pro tips and creative variations to take your cake to the next level. These tips will help you make the best Matilda chocolate cake ever, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker.

Pro Tips for Success:

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Always make sure your eggs, sour cream, and buttermilk are at room temperature. This helps the ingredients combine smoothly, preventing any lumps and ensuring that the batter has the right consistency for those moist chocolate cake layers.
  
• Don’t Overmix: Be gentle when mixing the wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can result in a dense, heavy texture. Blend until just combined; it’s fine if there are a few lumps!
  
• Frosting Consistency: If your chocolate fudge frosting is too runny, let it cool for 15-20 minutes at room temperature to thicken up. If it’s too firm, simply microwave it for a few seconds and whisk until smooth.
• Cool Cake Layers Properly: After baking, let the cake layers cool completely before frosting. This will prevent the frosting from melting into the cake, ensuring a beautiful, clean finish.
  

Creative Variations:

• Add a Layer of Fruit: For a fresh twist, consider adding a layer of fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, between the cake layers. The fruit’s tartness complements the deep chocolate flavor perfectly.
• Nutty Texture: If you love a bit of crunch, add chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) to the frosting or even within the cake batter itself. It gives an unexpected texture and extra depth to each bite.
  
• Mocha Twist: If you’re a coffee lover, you can enhance the chocolate cake’s flavor even further by adding a bit of brewed coffee to the cake batter. The coffee brings out the chocolate’s richness even more.
  
• Make It a Layer Cake: For an impressive presentation, make this cake into a tall, layered masterpiece by adding an extra layer or two. You can also use round cake pans for a beautiful layer cake that’s perfect for birthdays or celebrations.
  
• Go Gluten-Free: If you’re baking for someone with dietary restrictions, you can make this cake gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to double-check the rest of your ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free as well.
  

With these tips and variations, you can customize your Matilda cake to suit your preferences while ensuring every bite remains just as delicious as the last. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add a personal touch, this cake is bound to impress!

Delicious Serving Suggestions for Matilda Cake

Now that your Matilda Cake is ready, it’s time to serve it in the most delightful way possible. Whether you’re enjoying it with family, sharing it at a party, or indulging in a quiet moment of chocolate bliss, here are some creative and simple serving suggestions to elevate the experience.

1. Pair with a Hot Beverage

• Coffee or Espresso: The deep, rich chocolate flavor of this cake pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or espresso. The bitterness of the coffee complements the sweetness of the chocolate fudge frosting, creating the perfect balance.
  
• Tea: If you prefer tea, go for something bold like a black tea or a spiced chai. The warm spices in chai can enhance the chocolate cake layers, adding a comforting note to each bite.
  

2. Serve with Fresh Fruit

• Berries: A handful of fresh berries such as raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries adds a lovely pop of color and a fresh, tart contrast to the moist chocolate cake. They also make the cake look stunning when served on a cake stand.
  
• Bananas: Sliced bananas pair beautifully with chocolate, adding a creamy sweetness that complements the Matilda chocolate cake perfectly.
  

3. Add a Scoop of Ice Cream

• For an indulgent treat, serve a slice of cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or even chocolate ice cream for a double chocolate delight. The cold, creamy texture of the ice cream balances out the fudgy frosting and adds an extra layer of decadence.
  

4. Decorate for Special Occasions

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top of each slice can make the cake even more special. You can also add a few chocolate shavings or chocolate chips for extra texture.
  
• Sprinkles or Edible Gold Dust: If you’re serving this cake for a special event, like a birthday or celebration, sprinkle some edible gold dust or colorful sprinkles on top to give it a festive flair.
  

5. Serve as a Cake for a Celebration

• This cake is perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or any celebration that calls for a showstopper. You can cut the cake into generous slices, or if you’re feeling fancy, use a cake stand for an elegant presentation that will wow your guests.
• If you’re looking for another stunning cake option for your next celebration, check out our Red Velvet Cake Recipe for a delightful twist.
  

With these simple yet elegant serving ideas, your Matilda cake will shine at any occasion. Whether you go for a classic pairing or something a bit more extravagant, each bite will be as enjoyable as the last. Ready to enjoy? Dig in!

Why Matilda Cake is the Ultimate Chocolate Dessert

Congratulations! You’ve just baked the best Matilda chocolate cake ever. From the moist chocolate cake layers to the decadent chocolate fudge frosting, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser every time. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to something delicious, this cake has all the right elements: rich chocolate flavor, smooth texture, and the perfect balance of sweetness.

Why You’ll Love This Cake:

• Rich Chocolate Flavor: Thanks to the dark chocolate and Dutch-processed cocoa, the cake is deeply chocolatey without being overwhelming.
  
• Moist and Tender: The combination of buttermilk, sour cream, and vegetable oil ensures that each slice stays moist and tender, making it the perfect chocolate cake.
  
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the chocolate fudge frosting or add extra toppings to make it your own. Whether you like it simple or want to dress it up for a special event, the possibilities are endless.
  

This cake is an absolute winner and, once you try it, it’ll become your go-to chocolate cake recipe. Don’t forget to share it with friends and family they’ll love it just as much as you do. Ready to cut a slice and indulge? Enjoy every bite of this indulgent Matilda cake!

Now that you’ve got this recipe down, make sure to keep it handy for all your future cake needs. Whether it’s a holiday, a birthday, or just a random craving, this cake is the perfect choice for any occasion.

Matilda Cake: Ultimate Chocolate Cake

Cherish

Enjoy the rich, moist Matilda Cake with layers of decadent chocolate fudge frosting. This easy-to-make, indulgent cake is perfect for any occasion!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 24 minutes mins

Cooling Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12 slices

Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Chocolate Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour 260g, sifted
• 1.5 tsp baking powder
• 1.5 tsp baking soda
• 1 cup granulated sugar 200g
• 2/3 cup light brown sugar 135g
• 1 tsp salt
• 3 large eggs ideally room temp
• ⅔ cup vegetable oil 133g
• 1/3 cup buttermilk mix 1/3 cup whole milk and 1 tsp vinegar
• 1 cup sour cream 240g, ideally room temp
• 3/4 cup cocoa powder Dutch-processed preferred, 75g
• 2 tsp instant coffee
• 3/4 cup boiling water 180g

For the Chocolate Fudge Frosting:

• 300 g dark chocolate
• 3 tbsp corn syrup
• 8 oz cream cheese room temperature (226g)
• 1/3 cup cocoa powder 33g
• 1 cup powdered sugar 100g
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 1/4 cup heavy cream chilled

Instructions

 

Preheat and Prepare:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (no fan). Grease and line three 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper and butter.

Mix the Dry Ingredients:

• In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and salt. Set aside.

Mix the Wet Ingredients:

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, vegetable oil, buttermilk, and sour cream until smooth.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:

• Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients in two additions. Mix gently until combined. Do not overmix.

Add Cocoa Mixture:

• In a small bowl, whisk together cocoa powder and instant coffee with boiling water until smooth. Add this to the batter and fold it in until combined.

Bake the Cake:

• Distribute the batter equally among the three prepared pans. Bake for 22-24 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 20 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the Frosting:

• In a saucepan, melt dark chocolate and corn syrup over low heat. Set aside. In a stand mixer, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and salt, and mix until creamy. Gradually add the melted chocolate and mix in the heavy cream until fluffy and smooth.

Assemble the Cake:

• Trim the domes from the cooled cakes and layer them with chocolate fudge frosting. Apply a crumb coat and refrigerate for 20 minutes to set. Next, apply the remaining frosting over the cake.

Serve and Enjoy:

• Cut and serve the cake at room temperature to enjoy its full flavor and texture.

Notes

Nutrition Information (per serving):

• Calories: 450
  
• Fat: 23g
  
• Saturated Fat: 10g
  
• Cholesterol: 50mg
  
• Sodium: 350mg
  
• Carbs: 58g
  
• Fiber: 3g
  
• Sugar: 40g
  
• Protein: 5g

Keyword Chocolate Cake, Chocolate Fudge Frosting, Matilda Cake, Matilda Chocolate Cake

Frequently Asked Questions About Making Matilda Cake

Here are some frequently asked questions to help you make the best Matilda chocolate cake possible. Whether you’re looking for ingredient substitutions or tips for storage, I’ve got you covered!

If you have any more questions or need further tips on making your Matilda cake even better, feel free to ask! I’m always here to help you create the most delicious, mouth-watering desserts.