Gather your mixing bowls and turn up the music, because it’s time to bake up a slice (or two) of the most epic, cozy, and oh-so-comforting Matilda’s Chocolate Cake! This is the kind of homemade dessert that wraps you in a warm hug and makes your taste buds do a happy dance. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting to dip your whisk into the world of cake making, this recipe is the perfect blend of easy-to-follow instructions and real-life baking wisdom. So, let’s dive in and create a cake that’s as delightfully imperfect as it is delicious!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Matilda’s Chocolate Cake
Matilda’s Chocolate Cake is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion (or no occasion at all!). With its rich, decadent chocolate flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, this cake is the epitome of comfort and joy. What sets it apart is the story it carries – a recipe passed down through generations, with every crumb telling a tale of family gatherings, shared laughter, and the power of homemade desserts to bring people together. Whether you’re baking it for a special celebration or simply treating yourself to a slice on a cozy night in, Matilda’s Chocolate Cake is sure to become a new favorite in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients
To make Matilda’s Chocolate Cake, you’ll need a few simple, everyday ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. The star of the show is, of course, high-quality cocoa powder, which gives the cake its deep, chocolatey flavor. You’ll also need all-purpose flour, sugar, eggs, butter, and a touch of baking soda and salt to balance the sweetness.
- 1 3/4 cups (210g) – All-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup (60g) – Unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 cups (300g) – Granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons (7.5 ml) – Baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) – Salt
Ingredient Substitutions
- Cocoa Powder: Swap in milk chocolate chips for a creamier chocolate taste.
- All-Purpose Flour: Use a combination of all-purpose and almond flour for a nuttier twist.
How to Make Matilda’s Chocolate Cake
In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients – flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them together until they’re evenly distributed. Then, in a separate bowl, beat the eggs, melted butter, and any other wet ingredients until they’re smooth and creamy. Slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, gently folding everything together until you have a rich, velvety batter.
Step 1: Prep Work
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing your baking pans. Grease them well to ensure your cake releases easily. Next, gather all your ingredients and tools, so you’re ready to go. Measure out the dry ingredients, crack the eggs, and melt the butter – this step might seem small, but it’ll make the actual baking process a breeze.
Step 2: Main Cooking Process
In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients – flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them together until they’re evenly distributed. Then, in a separate bowl, beat the eggs, melted butter, and any other wet ingredients until they’re smooth and creamy. Slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, gently folding everything together until you have a rich, velvety batter.
Step 3: Final Steps/Assembly
Carefully pour the batter into your prepared baking pans, making sure to smooth the top. Pop them in the oven and set a timer – no peeking! When the cakes are done, let them cool completely before turning them out onto a wire rack. This is where the real magic happens, as the cakes transform from delicate, moist layers into the ultimate canvas for frosting and decorating.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
Now, it’s time to get creative! Frost the cakes with your favorite chocolate buttercream or ganache, or keep it simple with a dusting of powdered sugar. Feel free to add sprinkles, crushed cookies, or even a drizzle of caramel for an extra-special touch. Remember, the beauty of homemade desserts is that they don’t have to be perfect – the imperfections are what make them truly unique and special.
Recipe Variations & Tips
- Mocha Twist: Add a splash of espresso powder to the batter for a richer, more intense chocolate flavor.
- Peanut Butter Twist: Swap out the traditional frosting for a creamy peanut butter buttercream.
- Shape It Up: Experiment with different pan sizes and shapes – a sheet cake, cupcakes, or even a towering layer cake will all work beautifully.
- Embrace the Imperfections: Remember, every crumb tells a story, so embrace the imperfections and enjoy the process.
Serving & Storage
Serve with: vanilla ice cream, whipped cream.
Storage: Store the cake, tightly covered, at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Thaw frozen cakes at room temperature before serving.
Make-Ahead: Bake the cakes in advance, let them cool completely, and then wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil before freezing.
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Nutrition Information
Matilda’s Chocolate Cake is a rich, decadent dessert, so it’s important to enjoy it in moderation. Each serving packs a delicious punch of chocolate flavor, with around 350 calories and 20 grams of fat. But don’t let those numbers scare you – this cake is made with love, and a small slice is the perfect way to indulge your sweet tooth and nourish your soul.
- Serving Size: 1/12 of the cake
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 5 g
- Carbs: 45 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
Irresistible Matilda’s Chocolate Cake
A rich and moist chocolate cake that’s perfect for any occasion. This cake is layered with a delicious chocolate buttercream frosting, making it a delightful treat for chocolate lovers.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: 🍰 Cake Recipes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 cups granulated sugar
1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water
1 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
4. Gradually stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth. If desired, fold in chocolate chips.
5. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
6. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Once cooled, frost with chocolate buttercream frosting as desired.
Notes
For best results, use high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate.
Let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
This cake can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: chocolate cake, dessert, birthday cake
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of flour besides all-purpose?
Absolutely! While all-purpose flour is the classic choice, you can experiment with whole wheat flour, almond flour, or even a gluten-free blend to suit your dietary needs. Just keep in mind that the texture and baking times may vary slightly.
How can I make my cake extra moist?
To ensure your Matilda’s Chocolate Cake is delightfully moist, try substituting some of the butter with applesauce or plain Greek yogurt. You can also add a splash of buttermilk or strong coffee to the batter for an extra-rich, velvety crumb.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, you can! Matilda’s Chocolate Cake freezes beautifully. Bake the cakes, let them cool completely, and then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil. When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw at room temperature and frost as usual.
How can I make my frosting extra smooth and creamy?
For a silky-smooth frosting, be sure to start with softened butter and cream cheese (if using). Sift the powdered sugar before adding it to the mixture, and don’t be afraid to whip the frosting for a few extra minutes to get that perfect, fluffy texture.
Can I use a different type of chocolate in the cake?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for cocoa powder, you can definitely experiment with different types of chocolate. Try swapping in melted dark chocolate, milk chocolate chips, or even a mix of both for a truly decadent twist.