Matilda Chocolate Cake Recipe – The Ultimate Moist Chocolate Cake

Name: Matilda Chocolate Cake Recipe - The Ultimate Moist Chocolate Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1¾ cups granulated sugar; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1½ teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup whole milk, room temperature; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; Chocolate frosting of your choice

Matilda Chocolate Cake - moist and decadent chocolate cake

Remember the iconic chocolate cake scene from Matilda? That rich, moist, and utterly irresistible chocolate cake that had everyone dreaming? We’ve recreated that magical recipe – and made it incredibly easy to bake at home! This moist chocolate cake recipe delivers that same perfect crumb and intense chocolate flavor that made the movie scene so memorable.

What makes this recipe special is its perfect balance of simplicity and decadence. Using pantry staples and straightforward techniques, you’ll create a cake that rivals any bakery creation. Whether you’re a baking novice or seasoned pro, this Matilda-inspired chocolate cake will become your go-to dessert for celebrations, potlucks, or just because!

Matilda Chocolate Cake Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this magnificent chocolate cake:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1¾ cups granulated sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 teaspoons baking powder
1½ teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup whole milk, room temperature
½ cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs, room temperature
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water
Chocolate frosting of your choice

Step-by-Step Baking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix on medium speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Add Boiling Water

Slowly add the boiling water to the batter and mix until smooth. The batter will be thin – this is normal!

Step 6: Bake

Divide batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Frost

Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely before frosting.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Matilda Cake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature milk and eggs helps create a smoother batter and more even baking.

Don’t Overmix: Mix until ingredients are just combined to avoid a dense cake.

Hot Water Secret: The boiling water helps bloom the cocoa powder, enhancing the chocolate flavor.

Cool Completely: Never frost a warm cake – wait until it’s completely cooled to prevent melting frosting.

Storage: Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Matilda Chocolate Cake FAQ

Can I make this cake in a 9×13 pan instead?

Absolutely! Bake in a greased 9×13 inch pan for 35-40 minutes at 350°F.

Can I use buttermilk instead of regular milk?

Yes! Buttermilk will create a slightly tangier flavor and even more tender crumb.

How can I make this cake gluten-free?

Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.

Can I freeze this chocolate cake?

Yes, wrap unfrosted cake layers tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

This Matilda chocolate cake recipe brings movie magic to your kitchen with its incredible moist texture and rich chocolate flavor. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just because you deserve a treat – this easy chocolate cake recipe will quickly become a family favorite!