Print

Matilda Cake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.3 from 14 reviews

This iconic Matilda Cake is a rich, moist, and ultra-decadent chocolate layer cake with luscious swirls of creamy cocoa frosting, inspired by the famous movie scene. Perfect for celebrations or satisfying your chocolate cravings with its deep, indulgent flavors and tender crumb.

Ingredients

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
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup hot water or brewed coffee
  • 1/2 cup sour cream

Frosting

  • 1 cup butter (softened)
  • 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 3/4 cup cocoa powder
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat and prepare pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or alternatively, line them with parchment paper to ensure easy removal later.
  2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
  3. Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs with whole milk, vegetable oil, sour cream, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
  4. Add hot liquid: Slowly incorporate the hot water or brewed coffee into the batter. This helps intensify the chocolate flavor and results in a moist cake.
  5. Fill pans and bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Tap the pans gently on the counter to release any air bubbles. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  6. Cool the cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely, ensuring they are fully set for frosting.
  7. Prepare the frosting: Beat the softened butter in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Add cocoa powder, powdered sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Continue beating until the frosting is smooth, creamy, and spreadable.
  8. Assemble the cake: If needed, trim the tops of the cooled cake layers to make them flat. Frost the first cake layer evenly, then stack the second layer on top. Use the remaining frosting to cover the entire cake, smoothing with an offset spatula for a professional finish.
  9. Serve: Slice the cake carefully and serve. Enjoy this ultra-decadent chocolate treat perfect for any occasion.

Notes

  • Use parchment paper rounds for easy cake removal and cleaner edges.
  • Adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to the batter will deepen the chocolate flavor.
  • Chill the cake slightly before slicing to achieve cleaner cuts.