Matilda Chocolate Cake Recipe is inspired by the famous movie scene where Bruce Bogtrotter faces a rich, towering cake that looks too good to resist. This recipe delivers a decadent, multi-layered chocolate cake with moist sponge and whipped chocolate ganache thatโs as indulgent as it is beautiful.
Whether you want to recreate the nostalgia of the film or simply enjoy the ultimate chocolate dessert, this cake is designed to impress. With its fluffy layers and creamy filling, itโs perfect for birthdays, parties, or simply when a chocolate craving strikes.
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Why This Cake is Legendary
The story behind Matildaโs cake
The chocolate cake in Matilda became iconic because it represented temptation, indulgence, and ultimately triumph. Fans of the movie remember the massive, glossy cake that looked almost impossible to finish. Recreating it at home brings a touch of movie magic into your kitchen, turning dessert into an experience thatโs both nostalgic and delicious.
Why chocolate lovers adore it
Chocolate lovers call this cake a dream come true. With multiple layers of moist sponge soaked in chocolate milk and filled with fluffy ganache, it checks every box for richness and satisfaction. The cake is not overly complicated to prepare, yet it looks impressive enough for any celebration. Each slice delivers a perfect balance of tender crumb and creamy frosting, making it hard to stop at just one piece.
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Matilda Chocolate Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes plus chilling time
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Inspired by the famous Matilda movie scene, this decadent chocolate cake features moist layers soaked in chocolate milk and filled with fluffy whipped chocolate ganache.
Ingredients
Chocolate Cake:
2 cups granulated white sugar
1 3/4 cups all purpose flour
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1 1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
2 large eggs
1 cup coffee (instant or brewed)
1 cup milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Whipped Chocolate Ganache:
1500 grams milk chocolate (about 8 cups)
500 ml heavy cream (heated)
Assembly:
1 cup chocolate milk
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350ยฐF (180ยฐC). Grease and flour two 8-inch pans.
2. In one bowl, combine sugar, flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk eggs, coffee, milk, oil, and vanilla.
4. Mix wet and dry ingredients together until smooth. Batter will be thin.
5. Divide batter between pans and bake 35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Cool cakes completely, wrap, and refrigerate.
7. For ganache, pour hot cream over chopped chocolate. Cover and let sit 5 minutes, then whisk until smooth.
8. Refrigerate until firm, then whip until fluffy.
9. Slice cakes into 4 layers. Brush each with chocolate milk, then spread ganache between layers.
10. Apply crumb coat, refrigerate 15โ30 minutes, then finish with final ganache layer.
11. Let cake sit at room temperature for 1 hour before serving.
Notes
Ganache sets firm, so bring the cake to room temperature before slicing. For an easier version, use a boxed cake mix and follow the same assembly steps.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Cake
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 150g
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 45g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Ingredients and Substitutions
Essential cake ingredients
The cake batter is built on pantry staples like flour, sugar, and cocoa powder, creating the deep chocolate base. Baking soda and baking powder ensure the layers rise with a light, fluffy texture. Eggs add structure while milk and coffee keep the cake moist and flavorful. Vegetable oil provides richness, and vanilla extract enhances the flavor. Together, these ingredients create a reliable and delicious sponge that forms the foundation of the cake.
Options and substitutions
If you prefer, you can use a boxed cake mix instead of baking from scratch, and the result will still be delicious. For those avoiding dairy, swap whole milk with almond or oat milk and replace cream in the ganache with coconut cream. Dark chocolate can replace milk chocolate if you like a richer, less sweet flavor. Gluten-free flour blends also work well as a direct substitute for all-purpose flour. These adjustments ensure everyone can enjoy this indulgent cake.
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions
Preparing the chocolate sponge
Begin by preheating your oven to 350ยฐF and preparing two 8-inch pans with nonstick spray or butter and flour. In one bowl, mix together the dry ingredients: sugar, flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, coffee, milk, oil, and vanilla until smooth. Combine wet and dry ingredients to form a thin batter. Pour into pans and bake for about 35 minutes, testing with a toothpick for doneness. Once baked, cool completely before layering.
Making whipped chocolate ganache
Break the chocolate into small pieces while heating the cream until hot but not boiling. Pour the cream over the chocolate, cover with a plate, and let sit for 5 minutes. Stir until smooth and glossy, microwaving briefly if needed to remove clumps. Refrigerate until firm, then whip with a mixer until light, fluffy, and spreadable. This whipped ganache is what makes the cake so rich and creamy, holding the layers together beautifully.
Assembling the Cake
Layering with moisture and filling
Once the cakes are fully cooled, slice each one in half to create four layers. To keep the sponge extra moist, brush each layer with chocolate milk before adding ganache. Spread a generous layer of whipped ganache between each slice, stacking them carefully to create the tall, signature Matilda-style tower. This technique guarantees every bite is rich and balanced with chocolate flavor.
Finishing touches
After layering, apply a thin crumb coat of ganache to seal in any stray crumbs. Chill the cake for 15 to 30 minutes before applying the final smooth coat of ganache. To serve, let the cake rest at room temperature for about an hour, which allows the ganache to soften for the perfect texture. Slice into generous portions and watch as the tall, dramatic layers reveal themselves on the plate.
Nutrition and Serving Ideas
What makes this cake indulgent
This is not a light dessertโitโs meant to be rich and celebratory. Each slice provides layers of chocolate sponge, whipped ganache, and plenty of sweetness. A slice can easily be shared between two people, making it perfect for gatherings where indulgence is part of the experience. The use of chocolate milk and ganache sets it apart from traditional cakes by amplifying the chocolate flavor.
Pairings for a complete dessert
Serve this cake with a glass of cold milk for a classic touch or pair it with a hot espresso to balance the sweetness. Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries add a refreshing contrast, while a scoop of vanilla ice cream turns it into a decadent plated dessert. Whether enjoyed plain or with accompaniments, this cake always delivers a memorable treat.
Tips and Troubleshooting
Common mistakes to avoid
One of the most common mistakes is cutting the cake before it has cooled, which can cause it to crumble. Always cool and even refrigerate before slicing. Overbaking the sponge can dry it out, so check with a toothpick at the 35-minute mark. Another issue is grainy ganache, which happens if the chocolate isnโt fully melted. Ensure the cream is hot enough to soften the chocolate thoroughly before whisking.
Pro tips for success
For the fluffiest ganache, whip it right after it sets in the fridge and before using it. Use a serrated knife for clean, even cake layers. If you want bakery-quality smoothness, dip your spatula in hot water before spreading the final ganache coat. Refrigerate the finished cake briefly to set the frosting, then bring it back to room temperature before serving. These small steps create a polished and professional-looking cake.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, bake the sponge and prepare the ganache the day before. Assemble and frost the cake the next day for the best texture.
Can I freeze Matilda Chocolate Cake?
Absolutely. Wrap individual slices tightly and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Do I need to use coffee?
The coffee enhances the chocolate flavor, but you can replace it with hot water if preferred.
How do I keep the cake moist?
Brushing the layers with chocolate milk ensures moisture and adds extra flavor.
Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate?
Yes, but it will result in a richer, slightly less sweet ganache.
Conclusion
Matilda Chocolate Cake is the ultimate celebration of chocolate indulgence. With moist sponge layers, fluffy ganache, and nostalgic charm, itโs a dessert that always wows guests. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or simply when you crave something extraordinary, this cake captures the spirit of the iconic movie while delivering unforgettable flavor. Easy enough for home bakers yet impressive enough for any occasion, itโs a recipe worth adding to your collection.
