Matilda Chocolate Cake (Printable)

Rich chocolate layer cake with moist crumb and creamy frosting, inspired by the classic film

# What You'll Need:

→ For the Cake

01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 2 cups granulated sugar
03 - 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
04 - 1½ teaspoons baking powder
05 - 1½ teaspoons baking soda
06 - 1 teaspoon salt
07 - 2 large eggs, at room temperature
08 - 1 cup whole milk
09 - 1/2 cup vegetable oil
10 - 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
11 - 1 cup boiling water

→ For the Chocolate Frosting

12 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
13 - 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
14 - 3½ cups powdered sugar
15 - 1/4 cup whole milk, plus extra if needed
16 - 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
17 - Pinch of salt

# How To Make It:

01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
03 - Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla to the dry mixture. Beat on medium speed until fully incorporated and smooth.
04 - Carefully mix in the boiling water. The batter will become thin—this is normal and ensures a moist cake.
05 - Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
06 - Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely before frosting.
07 - Beat the softened butter in a mixing bowl until creamy. Sift in the cocoa powder and mix until fully incorporated.
08 - Gradually add powdered sugar, alternating with milk, beating until smooth and spreadable. Add more milk if the frosting is too thick.
09 - Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Beat on medium-high speed until light and fluffy.
10 - Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate. Spread an even layer of frosting on top. Stack the second cake layer.
11 - Cover the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting. Use an offset spatula to create swoops and swirls for the classic Matilda look.

# Tips from dashanddishes:

01 -
  • The boiling water trick creates the most incredibly moist crumb that stays tender for days
  • This frosting recipe balances rich chocolate with just enough sweetness to keep everyone coming back for seconds
02 -
  • The boiling water step might seem strange, but it is absolutely crucial for that moist texture everyone raves about
  • Room temperature ingredients mix together more evenly and create a smoother batter every single time
03 -
  • Sift your powdered sugar before adding it to the frosting to avoid any lumps in your final result
  • Use an offset spatula warmed under hot water to create those gorgeous swoops and swirls effortlessly

Return