How to Make a Chocolate Cake Inspired by Matilda's Without the Blood and Sweat

Inspirations from beloved children's literature make for some of the tastiest treats. The Matilda chocolate cake is a classic and delightful dessert. However, if you want to make it without the drama, this guide will help you create a rich, delicious chocolate cake that any child would love. Let’s dive into the process step-by-step.

Ingredients

We are making two layers of rich chocolate cake with a classic chocolate frosting. Here are the ingredients you will need:

For the Cake

1 3/4 cups (220g) all-purpose flour 3/4 cup (65g) unsweetened cocoa powder 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar 1 1/2 tsp baking powder 1 1/2 tsp baking soda 1 tsp salt 2 large eggs 1 cup (240ml) whole milk 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil 2 tsp vanilla extract 1 cup (240ml) boiling water

For the Chocolate Frosting

1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened 3 1/2 cups (440g) powdered sugar 1/2 cup (45g) unsweetened cocoa powder 1/2 tsp salt 1 tsp vanilla extract 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream or milk

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until well combined.

Step 4: Incorporate Boiling Water

Carefully stir in the boiling water. The batter will be thin, but that's okay!

Step 5: Bake

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Remove from the pans and transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 7: Make the Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing on low speed until combined. Add salt, vanilla extract, and heavy cream. Beat on high speed for about 3 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy. Add more cream if needed for consistency.

Step 8: Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of frosting on top. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.

Step 9: Decorate

Feel free to add chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or any decorations you like!

Enjoy!

Slice and serve your delicious chocolate cake. Indulge in it with all the joy that Matilda brought to the table, without any of the drama! Perfect for a quick dinner party or a lazy weekend treat, this rich and decadent chocolate cake is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.