The Richest Matilda Chocolate Cake Recipe
Every bite of this cake takes you back to the famous Matilda movie scene. That rich, thick slice Bruce had to finish was more than just a dessert. It was a legend. The kind of cake that makes people close their eyes and smile. Deep, dark, and moist all the way through. That’s what makes it unforgettable. Not just for kids, but for anyone who truly loves chocolate.
Baking it at home feels like creating magic in your own kitchen. The smell that fills the air is warm and rich and impossible to resist. You don’t need fancy tools or complicated steps. Just real ingredients and the love of baking. The result is a cake so tender, it almost melts when your fork touches it. It’s perfect for birthdays, movie nights, or whenever you want to treat yourself. Some cakes are good. This one makes people ask for seconds before they finish the first slice.
The Richest Matilda Chocolate Cake Recipe
8-10
servings25
minutes30
minutes6,500
kcalThis rich and moist Matilda chocolate cake is a homemade version of the iconic dessert from the movie. It’s made with simple ingredients, deep chocolate flavor, and a creamy fudge frosting that melts in your mouth. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or whenever a serious chocolate craving hits.
Ingredients
1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs, at room temperature
1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water
1 teaspoon instant coffee (optional, enhances the chocolate taste)
Ingredients for the Fudge Frosting:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
3 and 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup whole milk, plus more if needed
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt
Directions
- Start by preheating the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease two round 9-inch cake pans with butter or oil. Line the bottom of each with parchment paper, then dust lightly with cocoa powder instead of flour. Set the pans aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, and salt. Stir everything until the dry mixture looks even and smooth. This helps to make sure the cake bakes with an even texture.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs, then pour in the buttermilk, oil, and vanilla. Stir well until everything blends into a smooth liquid. Pour this wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon or use a hand mixer on low speed. Keep going until the batter just comes together.
- Now pour in the boiling water. If you’re using instant coffee, mix it into the hot water before adding it. The batter will look very thin, but that’s what gives the cake a moist and rich texture. Stir slowly and carefully so the water doesn’t splash. Once it looks smooth and glossy, stop mixing.
- Divide the batter evenly between the two cake pans. Tap each pan gently on the counter to get rid of air bubbles. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs, take the cakes out of the oven.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then run a knife around the edges and gently remove them. Place both cakes on a wire rack and allow them to cool completely before frosting.
- While the cakes cool, start on the frosting. Beat the softened butter until it looks creamy and smooth. Add the cocoa powder and keep beating until the mixture turns rich and fluffy. Scrape down the sides to mix it evenly.
- Add powdered sugar a cup at a time. After each addition, pour in a splash of milk to keep the frosting soft and easy to work with. Once everything is in, beat the mixture until thick and spreadable. Add vanilla and a pinch of salt, then beat one last time until it’s ready.
- Place one cooled cake layer on your serving plate. Spread a thick layer of frosting on top. Add the second cake layer and gently press it down. Cover the top and sides with the rest of the frosting. Use a spatula to smooth the surface or create soft swirls for a homemade look.
Recipe Video
Notes
- For a richer flavor, you can add a teaspoon of instant coffee to the batter, which enhances the chocolate taste without making it taste like coffee.
- Make sure the cakes are completely cooled before frosting. This helps the frosting set perfectly and prevents it from melting into the cake.

Conclusion
Matilda chocolate cake is a must-try for any chocolate lover. With its rich, moist layers and creamy fudge frosting, it’s the perfect dessert to satisfy your sweet cravings and impress your guests. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in something delicious, this cake will always be a crowd favorite. Easy to make and unforgettable in taste, it’s a dessert that brings joy to every bite. Don’t hesitate to give it a try – your taste buds will thank you!