The Matilda chocolate cake gained its legendary status from an unforgettable scene in the 1996 film adaptation of Roald Dahl’s beloved book Matilda. Who could forget Bruce Bogtrotter’s daunting task of devouring a massive, decadent chocolate cake under the watchful and intimidating eye of Miss Trunchbull? If that scene left you craving a slice, you’re in luck! We’ve recreated a rich, fudgy, and irresistibly moist Matilda chocolate cake recipe that you can easily make and enjoy right in your own kitchen.
This cake is perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or any event where you want to serve something nostalgic yet utterly delicious. Whether you’re a fan of the movie or simply love chocolate desserts, this recipe will take you back to that iconic movie moment. If you’re craving more chocolate recipes, check out our Decadent Homemade Chocolate Cake.
What is Matilda Chocolate Cake?
The Matilda chocolate cake has become a pop culture symbol of indulgence. In the movie, Bruce Bogtrotter is forced to devour a massive cake made by Ms. Trunchbull as punishment. But instead of suffering, Bruce rises to the occasion, transforming the moment into one of triumph. The cake itself is a rich, moist chocolate cake, covered in a thick layer of chocolate ganache, representing pure decadence. Fans of the film often search for recipes that replicate this epic dessert, aiming to recreate the memorable experience.
Aside from its iconic status in the film, the Matilda chocolate cake has earned a spot in real-world dessert culture. The cake’s appeal goes beyond its appearance in the movie—it’s a beloved recipe for chocolate lovers who want an incredibly moist and rich dessert. With the right ingredients and techniques, this cake is easy to replicate at home. If you want more ideas on how to tweak traditional recipes, check out our unique twist with Muddy Buddies for a playful, crunchy treat.
Ingredients:
To create a true-to-the-movie Matilda chocolate cake, you’ll need a combination of pantry staples and indulgent chocolate elements. Here’s what you need:
For the Cake:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
For the Ganache:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (learn more about how to choose the best chocolate for baking)
Baking Tip:
Using boiling water helps to bring out the deep chocolate flavor, making the cake extra moist and fudgy, just like Bruce Bogtrotter’s favorite.
How to Make Matilda Chocolate Cake
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. Line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, and salt. This mixture forms the base of the cake and sets up the rich chocolatey flavor.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, beat together the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. Slowly mix the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until combined. Make sure to beat the mixture until no lumps remain for a smooth batter.
4. Add Boiling Water:
Gradually stir in the boiling water. The batter will be thin, but this is what makes the cake so moist and delicious. The boiling water activates the cocoa powder, intensifying the chocolate flavor.
5. Bake:
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely.
6. Prepare the Ganache:
While the cake cools, heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and pour over the chocolate chips in a bowl. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then whisk until smooth and glossy. The ganache is essential to recreating the rich, glossy look that fans of the film adore.
For more tips on achieving the perfect ganache, visit this guide on how to make chocolate ganache.
7. Assemble the Cake:
Once the cakes are cool, spread a generous layer of ganache on top of one cake layer. Place the second cake on top, and cover the entire cake with the remaining ganache, letting it drip down the sides for that perfect Matilda chocolate cake look.
Want to add a fun twist? Try decorating the cake with chocolate curls, sprinkles, or fresh fruit like raspberries. You can also serve it alongside a lighter dessert, like Carrot Zucchini Muffins, to balance out the richness of the chocolate.
The Secret to a Moist Matilda Chocolate Cake
What makes the Matilda chocolate cake stand out is its incredibly moist texture. The secret lies in the combination of oil and boiling water. The oil keeps the cake soft and tender, while the boiling water enhances the cocoa powder’s rich flavor, making the cake extra fudgy. Unlike cakes that use butter as a base, the oil creates a light crumb that stays moist for days. You’ll find that this cake retains its moisture even days after it’s baked, which is part of what makes it so special.
Additionally, the chocolate ganache on top of the cake adds an extra layer of decadence that traditional frosting cannot match. The ganache is creamy, smooth, and packs an intense chocolate punch. It’s the perfect finishing touch, ensuring that every bite delivers the chocolatey goodness that makes this cake a crowd-pleaser.
To further emphasize the importance of moistness, the oil helps lock in moisture, which prevents the cake from drying out as quickly as cakes made with butter. For added richness, you could use a blend of oils, such as vegetable and coconut oil, which can introduce subtle flavor nuances while keeping the cake moist.
Variations:
While the classic recipe focuses on rich chocolate ganache, there are several variations you can try:
1. Peanut Butter Twist:
Add a layer of peanut butter frosting between the two cake layers before coating with ganache. This adds a nutty richness that pairs well with the chocolate.
2. Salted Caramel Filling:
Incorporate a salted caramel filling for an added sweet and salty contrast. This version introduces a burst of caramel flavor with every bite. Salted caramel and chocolate are a match made in heaven, and adding this layer elevates the cake to a gourmet level.
For more ideas on making the perfect salted caramel sauce, check out this recipe.
3. Espresso Infusion:
Enhance the cake’s deep chocolate flavor by adding a tablespoon of espresso powder to the batter. Coffee intensifies the chocolate without adding a distinct coffee taste. This is a perfect option for those who enjoy a deeper, richer chocolate flavor.
4. Vegan Matilda Chocolate Cake:
For a dairy-free, eggless version, substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal and use almond milk instead of whole milk. You can also replace the heavy cream in the ganache with coconut cream. This ensures that everyone, regardless of dietary preferences, can enjoy the iconic Matilda chocolate cake.
For even more variety, consider mixing and matching these variations. Try a peanut butter frosting with salted caramel drizzle or make a vegan version with a coconut cream ganache. The options are limitless and will allow you to customize the cake to your taste.
Serving Suggestions for Matilda Chocolate Cake
The beauty of the Matilda chocolate cake lies in its simplicity. While it’s delicious on its own, here are a few ways to elevate your serving experience:
- With Whipped Cream: Serve a slice with a dollop of fresh whipped cream for a lighter contrast to the rich chocolate.
- A Scoop of Ice Cream: Pair the cake with vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a chilled, creamy addition.
- Fresh Berries: Add a handful of raspberries or strawberries to cut through the sweetness of the cake.
- Chocolate Shavings: Sprinkle some chocolate shavings or curls over the top of the ganache for a decorative touch.
Want to try something different? Consider serving the cake alongside a refreshing sorbet or a lighter fruit salad for a balance of flavors. You can also get creative by pairing the cake with more indulgent toppings like caramel or fudge sauce.
If you’re looking for more creative dessert pairings, try our Muddy Buddies Recipe as a crunchy sidekick to your cake. The texture contrast will create an interesting combination that guests will love.
Storing Matilda Chocolate Cake
To keep your Matilda chocolate cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to one week. When refrigerating, let the cake come to room temperature before serving to ensure the ganache is soft and smooth.
The key to keeping this cake fresh is ensuring it remains well-covered, which helps prevent it from drying out. Wrapping the cake tightly in plastic wrap or storing it in an airtight container ensures that it retains its moisture and flavor for days.
Can You Freeze Matilda Chocolate Cake?
Yes! The Matilda chocolate cake freezes beautifully. To freeze, wrap each cake layer (without ganache) in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. Freeze for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw the cake overnight in the refrigerator and frost with ganache before serving.
Freezing the cake is a fantastic way to prepare it in advance for special occasions. It allows you to bake and assemble the cake when you have time and simply add the ganache later. For even easier prep, you can freeze the ganache separately and apply it when the cake is defrosted.
Matilda Chocolate Cake vs. Traditional Chocolate Cake
You might wonder, what sets the Matilda chocolate cake apart from a regular chocolate cake? While both are indulgent desserts, the Matilda chocolate cake is known for its extra moist texture and rich ganache topping. Traditional chocolate cakes often use butter in their base, resulting in a denser crumb, whereas the Matilda chocolate cake uses oil, yielding a lighter, more tender texture. Additionally, the movie connection gives the cake a nostalgic and playful quality that appeals to fans of all ages.
Another key difference is the boiling water used in the Matilda cake recipe. While some traditional recipes may not include this step, boiling water enhances the cocoa powder and provides that signature fudgy texture. This method elevates the cake to a level of moistness that traditional cakes rarely achieve.
For a different take on chocolate cake, check out our Decadent Homemade Chocolate Cake, which provides a more traditional approach to this beloved dessert.
Why People Love the Matilda Chocolate Cake
The Matilda chocolate cake is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience. The movie scene where Bruce Bogtrotter triumphantly eats the entire cake is an empowering moment that resonates with many. The cake itself, with its rich, gooey, and indulgent nature, feels like the ultimate treat. It’s perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or any time you want to recreate a bit of movie magic in your kitchen.
Aside from its iconic status in the film, people love this cake for its versatility. The cake can be customized to suit various preferences, whether you want a vegan version or a more indulgent one with salted caramel or peanut butter. It’s a dessert that can cater to a wide range of tastes and occasions, making it a favorite in many households.
FAQs:
- What makes Matilda chocolate cake so moist?
The combination of vegetable oil and boiling water is key to the cake’s moist texture. These ingredients help retain moisture, making the cake soft and tender for days. - Can I use butter instead of oil in the Matilda chocolate cake recipe?
While you can substitute butter for oil, the cake may turn out denser. Oil is preferred in this recipe because it keeps the cake lighter and more moist. - How do I make vegan Matilda chocolate cake?
To make a vegan version, substitute eggs with flax eggs (mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water per egg) and use plant-based milk and cream for the ganache. - Can I make Matilda chocolate cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this cake gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to use gluten-free cocoa powder and other ingredients. - What’s the best way to store leftover Matilda chocolate cake?
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to a week. - Can I freeze the Matilda chocolate cake?
Yes! Wrap the cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and frost with ganache before serving.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Matilda chocolate cake offers more than just a decadent slice of chocolate heaven. It’s a nostalgic nod to a classic film moment and a symbol of indulgence. Whether you’re recreating Bruce Bogtrotter’s famous victory or simply looking for the ultimate chocolate cake recipe, this cake is sure to bring smiles to your table. Serve it at any event and enjoy watching your guests savor each indulgent bite.