The Matilda chocolate cake became legendary thanks to one unforgettable scene in the 1996 film adaptation of Roald Dahl’s classic book, Matilda. Who could forget Bruce Bogtrotter’s challenge to finish an enormous, decadent chocolate cake under the harsh glare of Ms. Trunchbull? If you’re craving a slice of this indulgent cake, you’re in luck! We’ve recreated a rich, moist, and fudgy Matilda chocolate cake recipe so you can enjoy this treat in your own kitchen.
Whether you’re a fan of the movie or just a chocolate lover, this cake is the perfect balance of rich flavors and moist texture. Recreating the Matilda chocolate cake in your kitchen means reliving the iconic scene where Bruce triumphs over Ms. Trunchbull by eating the entire cake. Now, you too can feel victorious as you indulge in this decadent dessert!
Learn more about the history of the Matilda chocolate cake in the film by visiting the official Roald Dahl website.
What is Matilda Chocolate Cake?
The Matilda chocolate cake recipe 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.
This cake is not just a dessert but an emotional rollercoaster for anyone familiar with the film. It represents resilience, victory, and most importantly, pure, unadulterated chocolate indulgence. The richness of the ganache and the fudgy nature of the cake has made it a favorite amongst chocoholics around the world. It’s more than a recipe—it’s a tribute to those who can conquer any challenge, even when it’s as daunting as a gigantic chocolate cake.
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 (learn more about the best types of cocoa powder for baking)
- 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
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.
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.
You can also get creative with how you decorate the cake. Adding chocolate curls, extra sprinkles, or even edible glitter can take this cake to the next level, turning it into a showstopper for any event or celebration.
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.
Moreover, the inclusion of boiling water is a trick used by professional bakers to elevate the depth of flavor in chocolate cakes. It helps dissolve the cocoa powder more thoroughly, resulting in a smoother, more uniform chocolate experience. Don’t be alarmed if your batter looks runnier than you’re used to; it’s a key step to achieving that signature fudgy texture.
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.
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. Peanut butter lovers will enjoy the contrast between the creamy peanut butter and the deep chocolate flavor.
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.
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.
You could also experiment by adding fruits like raspberries or strawberries between the layers or atop the ganache for a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate. Try mixing and matching different variations to find your ultimate Matilda-inspired cake!
For more creative twists on traditional desserts, explore our Carrot Zucchini Muffins for a healthier variation of your favorite treats.
Serving Suggestions:
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.
If you’re looking for more creative dessert pairings, try our Muddy Buddies Recipe as a crunchy sidekick to your cake.
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 cake’s moisture will remain intact, even if refrigerated. The ganache may harden slightly in the fridge, so letting it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving ensures a soft and luxurious bite.
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.
If you’re planning for a special occasion, freezing the cake layers ahead of time can be a lifesaver. You can bake the cake in advance, then simply add the ganache after thawing it, ensuring that your cake tastes fresh and delicious on the day of your event.
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.
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.
This cake has become a symbol of indulgence, nostalgia, and triumph. People love the feeling of revisiting their childhood through this decadent dessert while savoring each rich, chocolatey bite.
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 recipe 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 recipe 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.