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Matilda Chocolate Cake Classic

A rich, fudgy, and moist chocolate cake inspired by the iconic Matilda movie scene, layered with silky cocoa frosting.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Cake, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cake Batter
  • 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
  • 1 cup whole milk room temperature
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup boiling water or hot coffee
Frosting
  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream plus more if needed

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking pans
  • Wire rack
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
  2. Whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. Add milk, oil, eggs, and vanilla; beat until smooth.
  4. Stir in boiling water (or hot coffee) carefully; batter will be thin.
  5. Divide batter between pans and bake 30–35 minutes, until toothpick comes out clean.
  6. Cool 10 minutes in pans, then transfer to wire rack to cool completely.
  7. Make frosting: beat butter until fluffy; add sugar, cocoa, salt, vanilla, and cream until spreadable.
  8. Layer and frost cake generously, smoothing sides and top.

Notes

Use hot coffee instead of water for deeper chocolate flavor.