If you are craving a rich, deeply chocolatey dessert that feels like a warm hug from an old friend, then you are in for a treat with the Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake Recipe. This cake is a perfect balance of moist crumb and luscious, velvety chocolate fudge frosting, making every bite an absolute delight. Whether for special occasions or a cozy weekend indulgence, this recipe brings together simple ingredients into an unforgettable chocolate lover’s dream, ensuring smiles all around.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward baking the Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake Recipe. Each component plays a vital role, from the rich cocoa powder that provides depth to the buttermilk which keeps the cake moist and tender. These are classic pantry staples that come together to transform your kitchen into a haven of chocolate goodness.
- Flour (2 1/2 cups): This gives the cake its structure and the perfect crumb texture.
- Granulated sugar (1 3/4 cups): Sweetens the cake and helps with browning.
- Baking powder (2 tsp): Leavens the cake, making it light and fluffy.
- Baking soda (1 tsp): Works with the buttermilk to tenderize and lift.
- Kosher salt (1/2 tsp): Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
- Cocoa powder (1/2 cup): Adds rich chocolate notes and a beautiful color.
- Vegetable oil (2/3 cup): Keeps the cake moist without overpowering the flavor.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Complements the chocolate with warm undertones.
- Eggs (3): Bind everything together and add richness.
- Buttermilk (2/3 cup): Tenderizes the crumb and adds a slight tang.
- Hot coffee (1 cup): Amplifies the chocolate flavor with a subtle depth.
- Unsalted butter (11.11 oz): Essential for the creamy, indulgent frosting.
- Dark chocolate 60-70% (14.1 oz): Creates the luscious, fudgy chocolate fudge frosting.
- Cocoa powder (1/3 cup for frosting): Adds intensity and a glossy finish to the frosting.
- Heavy cream (1 1/3 cups): Makes the frosting smooth and silky.
- Powdered sugar (1 1/3 cups): Sweetens and stabilizes the frosting’s texture.
- Kosher salt (1/2 tsp for frosting): Enhances all the chocolate flavors.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp for frosting): Adds aromatic warmth to the frosting.
How to Make Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pans
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Prepare two 8-inch round baking pans by greasing and lightly flouring them or lining with parchment paper to ensure the cakes release easily after baking. This simple step sets the stage for perfectly shaped layers every time.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, kosher salt, and cocoa powder. Sifting the cocoa powder ensures no lumps, giving your batter a smooth, even mix. This blend forms the backbone of your chocolate cake’s flavor and texture.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, add the buttermilk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and eggs to the dry mix. Use a mixer on low speed to combine everything just until moistened — overmixing can make a cake tough, so keep it light and gentle here.
Step 4: Stir in the Hot Coffee
Slowly pour in the hot coffee and mix until the batter is silky smooth. The coffee enriches the chocolate flavor, while the warmth helps dissolve the cocoa better, making your cake extra luscious and rich without any bitter aftertaste.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans and pop them into the oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. As the layers bake, the aroma alone will have your kitchen smelling divine.
Step 6: Frost with Decadent Chocolate Fudge
Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting. Prepare the chocolate fudge frosting by melting the dark chocolate and butter together, then whisk in cocoa powder, powdered sugar, heavy cream, salt, and vanilla extract until glossy and spreadable. This frosting is the crowning glory of the Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake Recipe, turning each slice into a dreamy, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
How to Serve Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To add a special touch, garnish your cake with fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries for a juicy contrast, or sprinkle some cocoa nibs or shaved chocolate on top for an elegant finish. A dusting of powdered sugar can also add a lovely visual and textural balance.
Side Dishes
Serve your chocolate cake alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to complement its richness. For grown-up gatherings, a glass of port wine or espresso makes a fabulous companion to the deep chocolate flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Get playful and transform your cake into a layered trifle with alternating layers of cake, frosting, and berries in a clear glass dish. Or cut into small squares for bite-sized cake pops, dipped in melted chocolate and sprinkled with nuts or coconut for a party favorite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake Recipe stays moist and delicious for several days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer freshness, keep it in the refrigerator but bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the unfrosted cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before frosting and serving. Frosted cakes can also be frozen if properly sealed, though the texture may soften slightly.
Reheating
If you prefer your slice warmed, pop it in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or serve with warm custard or sauce to enhance the gooey chocolate sensation. Just be careful not to overheat, as it can dry out the cake.
FAQs
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
While regular milk can be used in a pinch, buttermilk adds acidity that tenderizes the cake and activates the baking soda for a better rise, making it worth the extra step or purchase.
Is there a substitute for vegetable oil?
You can substitute olive oil or melted coconut oil, but vegetable oil is preferred for its neutral flavor which lets the chocolate shine through brilliantly.
Why do you add hot coffee to the cake batter?
The hot coffee intensifies the chocolate flavor without adding a coffee taste. It also helps dissolve the cocoa powder thoroughly for a richer color and deeper chocolate aroma.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Try using a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for structure. The texture might vary slightly, but the chocolate flavor will remain fantastic.
How long does the chocolate fudge frosting take to set?
Once spread, the frosting firms up as it cools, usually within an hour at room temperature or faster in the fridge. This gives it a luscious, slightly firm texture that’s perfect for slicing.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with the Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake Recipe — it’s a trusty classic that delights every time. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this cake brings comfort, joy, and rich chocolate magic to your table. I can’t wait for you to try it and create some delicious memories of your own!
Print
Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Matilda’s Chocolate Cake is a moist and rich chocolate layer cake that combines cocoa, coffee, and buttermilk for deep flavor and tender crumb. Topped with a luscious chocolate fudge frosting made from dark chocolate, butter, cocoa powder, and cream, this cake is perfect for special occasions or decadent dessert cravings.
Ingredients
Cake
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder (sifted)
- 2/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 2/3 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup hot coffee
Chocolate Fudge Frosting
- 11.11 oz unsalted butter
- 14.1 oz dark chocolate (60%-70% cacao)
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder
- 1 1/3 cups heavy cream
- 1 1/3 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round baking pans or line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, kosher salt, and sifted cocoa powder until well combined.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the buttermilk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and crack in the eggs. Mix gently until the batter is just combined to avoid overmixing which can toughen the cake.
- Incorporate Coffee: Slowly stir in the hot coffee, mixing until the batter is smooth and fully blended. The hot coffee accentuates the chocolate flavor and helps create a moist texture.
- Bake the Cake: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans. Place them in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool Completely: Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool completely in their pans on a wire rack before frosting to prevent melting or sliding of the frosting.
- Prepare the Frosting: Melt the dark chocolate and unsalted butter together gently over a double boiler or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring frequently until smooth.
- Mix Frosting Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, powdered sugar, kosher salt, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until well combined and smooth.
- Combine and Chill: Pour the melted chocolate and butter mixture into the cocoa and powdered sugar mixture. Whisk until fully incorporated and glossy. Chill in the refrigerator as needed to achieve spreadable consistency.
- Frost the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cooled, spread a layer of chocolate fudge frosting on one cake layer, then place the second layer on top. Cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting evenly.
Notes
- Use freshly brewed hot coffee for best flavor enhancement.
- Ensure the cakes are completely cool before applying frosting to avoid melting or sliding.
- The frosting can be refrigerated to firm up if too soft; bring to room temperature before spreading.
- For extra moistness, wrap the cake in plastic wrap and let it rest overnight before serving.
- You can substitute regular sugar with superfine sugar for a smoother batter texture.
