Name: Matilda Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour; 2 cups Sugar; ¾ cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder; 2 teaspoons Baking Powder; 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt; 1 teaspoon Instant Espresso; 1 cup Heavy Cream; ¾ cup Vegetable Oil; 2 large Eggs (at room temperature); 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract; ½ teaspoon Almond Extract; 1 cup Boiling Water; 1 cup Butter (softened); 1 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder; 5 cups Confectioners Sugar; ½ cup Milk (more as needed); 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract; ½ teaspoon Instant Espresso; a pinch Kosher Salt

If you’re looking for a show-stopping cake that’s perfect for any celebration, you’ve landed in the right place! Inspired by the beloved children’s book, the Matilda Cake is a rich, indulgent chocolate cake that’s sure to delight both kids and adults alike. Enveloped in a luscious chocolate frosting, this cake captures the whimsical charm of Matilda’s world while satisfying your sweet cravings. Get ready to whip up this decadent dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Reasons to Love Matilda Cake Recipe

There are countless reasons to fall head over heels for this Matilda Cake Recipe. First and foremost, it’s a chocolate lover’s dream come true! The rich cocoa flavor combined with the creamy frosting creates a heavenly experience in every bite. Additionally, this cake is perfect for any occasion, from birthday parties to family gatherings. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, requiring only a few simple ingredients and steps. What’s not to love?

The Essentials

All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of the cake, giving it structure and a delightful crumb.
Sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture to the cake.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: The star ingredient for that intense chocolate flavor.
Baking Powder and Baking Soda: Essential for the cake’s rise and fluffy texture.
Kosher Salt: Balances the sweetness while enhancing the chocolate flavor.
Instant Espresso: Intensifies the chocolate taste without making the cake taste like coffee.
Heavy Cream: Adds richness and moisture to the cake batter.
Vegetable Oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender.
Eggs: Provides structure and stability to the cake.
Vanilla and Almond Extract: Infuses the cake with warm, comforting flavors.
Boiling Water: Helps to bring out the flavors of the cocoa powder.
Butter: A key ingredient in the frosting, providing creaminess and flavor.
Confectioners Sugar: Creates a smooth and sweet frosting.
Milk: Adjusts the consistency of the frosting to your liking.

Prep & Cook Tools

Mixing Bowls: For combining the dry and wet ingredients effectively.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accuracy in baking.
Whisk: To ensure a smooth batter and frosting.
Rubber Spatula: Perfect for folding ingredients and scraping bowls clean.
9-inch Round Cake Pans: To bake the cake layers evenly.
Cooling Rack: Allows the cake to cool completely before frosting.

Directions: Matilda Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 cups of sugar, ¾ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1 teaspoon of instant espresso.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix 1 cup of heavy cream, ¾ cup of vegetable oil, and 2 large eggs (make sure they are at room temperature). Add 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and ½ teaspoon of almond extract to the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Mix and Add Boiling Water

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Slowly add in 1 cup of boiling water to the batter, mixing until smooth. The batter will be thin, but that’s perfectly normal!

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Prepare the Frosting

While the cakes are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 cup of softened butter (3 sticks) until creamy. Gradually add 1 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder and 5 cups of confectioners sugar, mixing until combined. Add ½ cup of milk (more as needed), 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon of instant espresso, and a pinch of kosher salt. Beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.

Step 6: Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top, then place the second layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting. Decorate as desired!

Spring–Summer–Fall–Winter Ideas

Spring: Add fresh berries on top for a pop of color and freshness.
Summer: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat.
Fall: Incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the frosting for a seasonal twist.
Winter: Top with crushed peppermint candies for a festive touch.

Insider Tips

Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
Don’t skip the boiling water; it helps to bloom the cocoa and enhances the flavor.
For a richer cake, consider adding chocolate chips to the batter.
Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting the icing.

Make-Ahead & Storage

This Matilda Cake Recipe can be made ahead of time. The cake layers can be baked, cooled, and wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 2 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator. The frosting can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week as well. Just re-whip the frosting before using it again. If you need to freeze the cake, wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil, and it will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reader Questions

Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can use cake flour for a lighter texture, but you may need to adjust the measurements slightly. Cake flour absorbs more moisture, so you might need to reduce the amount by about ¼ cup.

What can I substitute for vegetable oil?

You can substitute vegetable oil with melted coconut oil or canola oil. Both will work well without altering the flavor significantly.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of the regular flour. Just ensure it contains a binding agent like xanthan gum for the best results.

How can I make the frosting thicker?

If your frosting is too thin, simply add more confectioners sugar until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thick, you can add a splash more milk to loosen it up.

Because You Liked This

Make It Tonight

Now that you have this delightful Matilda Cake Recipe at your fingertips, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get baking! This cake is not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for the taste buds. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet moment, this cake will surely bring joy and happiness to your table. Enjoy the process and, most importantly, savor every delicious bite!