Matilda Chocolate Cake (Print)
Rich chocolate cake with creamy cocoa frosting, inspired by the iconic Matilda dessert.
# Ingredient List:
→ Cake Components
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, room temperature
08 - 1 cup whole milk
09 - 1/2 cup vegetable oil
10 - 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
11 - 1 cup boiling water
→ 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 Steps:
01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line with parchment paper.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until fully incorporated.
03 - Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla to the dry mixture. Beat on medium speed until well combined and smooth.
04 - Carefully stir in boiling water until incorporated. The batter will appear thin—this is correct.
05 - Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
06 - Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then release onto wire racks to cool completely before frosting.
07 - Beat softened butter until creamy. Sift in cocoa powder and mix thoroughly until no lumps remain.
08 - Gradually add powdered sugar, alternating with milk, beating until smooth and spreadable consistency is achieved.
09 - Add vanilla and pinch of salt. Beat on high speed for 2 minutes until light and fluffy.
10 - Place one cake layer on serving plate. Spread frosting evenly over top. Position second layer and coat top and sides with remaining frosting.
11 - Use offset spatula to create swoops and swirls for the signature 'Matilda' presentation.
# Expert Suggestions:
01 -
- The boiling water trick creates an incredibly moist crumb that stays fresh for days
- This frosting recipe spreads like a dream and tastes like pure chocolate heaven
02 -
- The boiling water step might seem scary but it is essential for the moist texture
- Room temperature ingredients prevent the batter from separating or becoming lumpy
03 -
- Sift your powdered sugar before adding it to avoid any gritty texture in the frosting
- Chill the frosted cake for 15 minutes before serving to get cleaner slices