Decadent Chocolate Cake Recipe Inspired by Matilda

This rich and indulgent chocolate cake is inspired by the iconic scene in Matilda. It’s dense, moist, and covered in a luscious chocolate frosting—perfect for any chocoholic moment!

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1 ¾ cups (350g) granulated sugar
• ¾ cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder (high-quality)
• 2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp vinegar, let sit 5 mins)
• ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240ml) boiling water or hot coffee (enhances chocolate flavor)

For the Chocolate Frosting:

• 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 ½ cups (300g) powdered sugar, sifted
• ¾ cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 6 tbsp (90ml) heavy cream or milk (adjust for desired consistency)

Optional Decorations:

• Chocolate shavings
• Sprinkles
• Ganache drizzle (melt ½ cup dark chocolate with ¼ cup cream)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cake Layers:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans or line with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla to the dry ingredients. Mix on medium speed until combined.
4. Gradually add the boiling water (or coffee) while mixing on low speed. The batter will be thin—that’s normal!
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Make the Frosting:

1. Beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Mix on low speed until incorporated.
3. Add the vanilla and heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches a fluffy, spreadable consistency.

3. Assemble the Cake:

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread an even layer of frosting over the top.
2. Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides generously.
3. Use a spatula to create swirls or smooth the frosting for a polished look.
4. Decorate with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or a ganache drizzle if desired.

4. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice into this decadent cake, channel your inner Bruce Bogtrotter, and savor every chocolaty bite. It’s perfect for celebrations—or for stealing the show at dessert time!

Let us know how it turns out! —Vita Daily