Name: The Ultimate Matilda Chocolate Cake Recipe for Chocoholics
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 24 min
Total time: 74 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (ensure it’s sifted for best results); 1.5 tsp baking powder (acts as a leavening agent); 1.5 tsp baking soda (aiding in light cake texture); 1 cup granulated sugar (adds sweetness); ⅔ cup light brown sugar (contributes moisture); 1 tsp salt (enhances flavor); 3 large eggs (room temperature for better mixing); ⅔ cup vegetable oil (keeps the cake moist); ⅓ cup buttermilk (adds moisture); 1 cup sour cream (enhances moisture); ¾ cup cocoa powder (Dutch processed preferred); 2 tsp instant coffee (intensifies chocolate flavor); ¾ cup boiling water (ensures smooth batter); 300 g dark chocolate (for rich frosting flavor); 3 tbsp corn syrup (provides shine); 8 oz cream cheese (room temperature for easy mixing); ⅓ cup cocoa powder (for enhancing frosting flavor); 1 cup powdered sugar (sweetens the frosting); ¼ tsp salt (balances sweetness); 1 ¼ cup heavy cream (chilled for fluffy texture)

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There’s nothing quite like the delight of pulling a freshly baked chocolate cake from the oven, the rich aroma wrapping around you like a warm hug. The Ultimate Matilda Chocolate Cake Recipe for Chocolate Lovers promises just that—a decadent delight that’s as enchanting to look at as it is to taste. With its moist, velvety layers and luscious cream cheese frosting, this cake was created for those moments when you want to celebrate life’s little victories or indulge in a cozy dessert experience.

Whether you’re prepping for a birthday bash or simply looking to elevate a weekday dinner with a touch of luxury, this chocolate cake stands ready to impress. Each slice is a symphony of deep chocolate flavor harmonizing with creamy frosting, making it the perfect treat for gatherings or quiet evenings at home. So, grab your apron and let’s bring a little magic to your kitchen with this irresistible recipe that’s destined to create lasting memories.

Why is The Ultimate Matilda Chocolate Cake a Must-Try?

Indulgence: This cake takes chocolate to new heights with its deeply rich flavor and moisture that lingers on your palate.
Gourmet Appeal: With its luxurious cream cheese frosting, it looks as stunning as it tastes, making it perfect for special occasions.
Easy Preparation: Simple steps mean anyone, regardless of skill level, can indulge in this decadent treat.
Versatile Delight: Whether for a birthday party, holiday celebration, or cozy night in, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser that satisfies all chocolate cravings.
Lasting Memories: Each slice is not just dessert; it’s an experience that brings families and friends together. You can even pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an added treat!

The Ultimate Matilda Chocolate Cake Ingredients

For the Cake Base
• All-purpose flour (2 cups / 260g) – Provides structure and a light, fluffy texture; ensure it’s sifted for best results.
• Baking powder (1.5 tsp) – Acts as a leavening agent to help the cake rise.
• Baking soda (1.5 tsp) – Another leavening agent that aids in achieving a light cake texture.
• Granulated sugar (1 cup / 200g) – Adds sweetness and balances the rich chocolate flavors.
• Light brown sugar (⅔ cup / 135g) – Contributes moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
• Salt (1 tsp) – Enhances the overall flavor of the cake.
• Large eggs (3) – Provides richness and stability; use room temperature for better mixing.
• Vegetable oil (⅔ cup / 133g) – Keeps the cake moist and tender.
• Buttermilk (⅓ cup) – Adds moisture and a slight tang; substitute with mixed milk and vinegar if needed.
• Sour cream (1 cup / 240g) – Enhances moisture and richness in the cake; use room temperature for best mixing.
• Cocoa powder (¾ cup / 75g) – Gives the cake its deep chocolate flavor; Dutch processed is preferred for a smoother taste.
• Instant coffee (2 tsp) – Intensifies the chocolate flavor without adding a coffee taste.
• Boiling water (¾ cup / 180g) – Ensures a smooth batter and deepens the chocolate flavor.

For the Frosting
• Dark chocolate (300g) – The star ingredient for a rich, intense chocolate flavor in the frosting.
• Corn syrup (3 tbsp) – Provides shine and a smooth texture in the frosting.
• Cream cheese (8 oz / 226g) – Forms the base of the frosting; use room temperature for easy mixing.
• Cocoa powder (⅓ cup / 33g) – Adds more cocoa in frosting to enhance flavor.
• Powdered sugar (1 cup / 100g) – Sweetens the frosting without overwhelming richness.
• Salt (¼ tsp) – Balances the sweetness of the frosting.
• Heavy cream (1 ¼ cup, chilled) – Whipped for a light, fluffy frosting texture.

This collection of ingredients is what makes The Ultimate Matilda Chocolate Cake Recipe a delectable treat you won’t want to miss. Happy baking!

How to Make The Ultimate Matilda Chocolate Cake

Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper for easy removal once baked.
Dry Mix: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and salt until well combined. This is the foundation of your delicious cake!
Wet Mix: In another bowl, whisk your large eggs, vegetable oil, buttermilk, and sour cream until smooth. Make sure those ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
Combine: Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients in two additions, being careful not to overmix. In a separate small bowl, whisk together cocoa powder and instant coffee. Slowly mix in the boiling water until smooth, then fold this mixture into your batter.
Bake: Evenly divide the batter among the prepared pans. Bake for 22-24 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few light crumbs. Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 20 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frosting: In a saucepan, melt the dark chocolate with corn syrup over low heat. In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and salt until smooth. Whip in the chilled heavy cream until fluffy, then fold in the melted chocolate and let cool until spreadable.
Assemble: Ensure cake layers are flat by trimming any domes. Layer the cakes with frosting in between, apply a crumb coat, chill for 20 minutes, then frost the top and sides generously.

Optional: Decorate with chocolate shavings or fresh berries for an elegant touch!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with The Ultimate Matilda Chocolate Cake?

Indulging in a slice of this decadent cake invites the perfect opportunity to create a complete dining experience filled with delightful flavors.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The smooth, creamy texture of vanilla ice cream perfectly contrasts the rich flavors of the cake, creating a delightful harmony.
Fresh Berries: Raspberries or strawberries offer a refreshing tartness, cutting through the sweetness of the cake, providing a balanced bite.
Chocolate Ganache: Drizzling warm chocolate ganache over the cake amplifies its decadence, making every mouthful an indulgent treat.
Coffee: A cup of freshly brewed coffee enhances the chocolate flavor; the bitterness beautifully complements this rich dessert.
Mint Tea: The refreshing notes of mint tea provide a light and soothing contrast, cleansing the palate after each delectable bite.
Whipped Cream: An airy dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a fluffy texture that elevates the overall experience, inviting you to savor each bite.
Nutty Biscotti: Crunchy almond or hazelnut biscotti offer a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the moist cake.
Chocolate Milkshake: For an indulgent twist, pair it with a creamy chocolate milkshake to immerse yourself in chocolate heaven!

Make Ahead Options

These delightful layers of The Ultimate Matilda Chocolate Cake are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cake layers up to 3 days in advance by baking them and allowing them to cool completely before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap. For the frosting, you can make it up to 24 hours ahead; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to assemble, allow the frosting to come to room temperature before applying, ensuring it spreads smoothly. This way, you’ll have a luxurious, decadent cake ready to impress, saving you valuable time on the day of your gathering!

Expert Tips for The Ultimate Matilda Chocolate Cake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs, buttermilk, and sour cream are at room temperature. This promotes maximum emulsification for a richer batter.
Avoid Overmixing: Gently fold your batter to keep the cake light and airy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture in your chocolate cake.
Cooling Time: Allow cake layers to cool completely before frosting. Frosting on warm layers may melt, ruining the beautiful finish.
Leveling Layers: Use a serrated knife to level your cake layers evenly. This ensures a stable cake that looks impressive at any celebration.
Temperature Check: Always check your cakes a few minutes before the suggested baking time. Ovens can vary, so avoid overbaking for the moistness desired in your decadent chocolate cake.

How to Store and Freeze The Ultimate Matilda Chocolate Cake

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for maximum freshness.

Fridge: If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate the cake for up to a week. Make sure it’s well-wrapped to prevent drying out.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months.

Reheating: For a delightful warm experience, microwave a slice for about 15-20 seconds before serving. Enjoy this rich chocolate cake that’s perfect for any occasion!

Chocolate Cake Variations

Customize your chocolate delight with these exciting twists and substitutions that will elevate your baking experience to new heights.

Dairy-Free: Substitute buttermilk and sour cream with almond or oat milk mixed with vinegar for a deliciously creamy texture.
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a cake that everyone can enjoy, without sacrificing moisture.
Fruit-Infused: Add a layer of raspberry or cherry preserves between the cake layers for a burst of fruity flavor that beautifully complements the chocolate.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili powder into your cake batter for a surprising warmth that enhances the chocolate flavor.
Nutty Delight: Fold in 1 cup of finely chopped nuts, like walnuts or hazelnuts, to add texture and a delightful crunch.
Luxurious Ganache: Top with a rich chocolate ganache instead of frosting for a sleek, indulgent finish that’s utterly smooth.
Zesty Surprise: Add the zest of one orange or lemon to the batter for a refreshing twist that brightens the overall flavor profile.
Decadent Filling: Use a dark chocolate mousse as a filling between layers for an ultra-rich experience in every bite.

Each of these variations brings its own charm, allowing you to create a chocolate cake tailored to your tastes or occasion!

The Ultimate Matilda Chocolate Cake Recipe FAQs

What’s the best way to select ripe ingredients for baking?
Absolutely! When it comes to eggs, choose large, fresh ones that are at room temperature for optimal mixing. For flour, look for all-purpose varieties that are finely milled; this ensures a light and fluffy texture in your cake. Additionally, ensure that your buttercream, if using, is soft but not melted to achieve that perfect frosting consistency.

How should I store leftover chocolate cake?
Very! Store your chocolate cake in an airtight container. At room temperature, it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you prefer to refrigerate it, ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent it from drying out; it can last about a week. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before indulging for the best taste experience!

Can I freeze slices of the Matilda Chocolate Cake?
Definitely! To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. This method keeps your cake fresh for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply microwave a slice for about 15-20 seconds for that warm, delightful chocolate goodness!

What common troubleshooting should I consider while baking?
If your cake is coming out dense, be mindful of overmixing the batter. Always fold gently to maintain lightness. If it’s uneven, ensure your cake layers are completely cool before frosting and use a serrated knife to level the tops for a beautiful, flat finish. Also, check that your oven is correctly calibrated—too high a temperature can overbake the outer layers before the inside is done.

Are there any dietary considerations for making this cake?
Absolutely! If you have dietary restrictions, consider substituting the buttermilk with a mix of whole milk and vinegar or using dairy-free alternatives like almond milk. Also, ensure that the chocolate you use is allergen-free if you or your guests have specific food allergies. Always double-check ingredient labels to ensure they’re suitable for everyone enjoying your decadent treat.

What should I look for to know if my cake is baked perfectly?
Very! You’ll want to check for a few cues: a toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter. The cake should spring back when gently pressed, and the edges should start to pull away from the pan. Let the layers cool in the pans for about 20 minutes before transferring to a wire rack, making sure they’re completely cool before frosting to avoid melting.