If you have been searching for a truly indulgent and irresistibly moist cake, you are absolutely going to love this Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake Recipe – Matilda Cake. This chocolate lover’s dream combines rich cocoa, perfectly balanced sweetness, and a tender crumb that melts in your mouth. Whether for a special celebration or just because chocolate cravings strike, this recipe promises a baking experience that is both straightforward and immensely satisfying. The end result is a classic dessert with a gorgeous texture and deep flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Best Matilda's Chocolate Cake Recipe - Matilda Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes this cake so remarkable is its simple yet essential list of ingredients. Each one plays a pivotal role in building the cake’s wonderful texture, taste, and chocolatey depth. From Dutch-process cocoa powder providing that intense chocolate flavor to the hot brewed coffee enhancing it even further, every component counts.

Baking spray: Ensures your cake pans are prepped perfectly so the cake layers come out clean without sticking.
2 cups granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create the moist crumb you’ll adore.
2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation providing structure for this luscious cake.
¾ cup unsweetened Dutch-process cocoa powder: Gives the cake its deep, rich chocolate flavor without bitterness.
1 ½ tsp baking powder: Leavens the cake to a fluffy, tender rise.
½ tsp baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to lift the batter and keep it light.
¾ tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
¾ cup vegetable oil: Adds moisture and keeps the cake soft for days.
2 large eggs (room temperature): Bind the ingredients while enriching the cake with a velvety texture.
2 tsp pure vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to complement the chocolate perfectly.
1 cup buttermilk (room temperature): Adds tang and ensures the cake stays tender and moist.
1 cup hot brewed coffee: Enhances the chocolate flavor and adds a subtle complexity that sets this cake apart.

How to Make Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake Recipe – Matilda Cake

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F and preparing your pans. Line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper and spray them with baking spray. This prep keeps everything non-stick and ensures your cakes turn out perfectly round and easy to remove.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisking not only combines these ingredients evenly but also aerates the mixture slightly, helping to give your cake a light texture.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Stir the vegetable oil into the dry ingredients until all the flour is coated—this step helps prevent clumps. Then add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing gently but thoroughly to form a smooth batter.

Step 4: Incorporate Buttermilk and Coffee

Add the buttermilk next and stir until combined, creating a tender batter. Finally, carefully pour in the hot brewed coffee. The coffee may thin the batter a bit, but it’s crucial for boosting the chocolate flavor and adding complexity to the cake.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans, smoothing the tops for even baking. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted at the center comes out clean or with moist crumbs attached. The smell that fills your kitchen at this stage is pure chocolate heaven.

Step 6: Cool and Frost

Let the cake layers cool in their pans briefly before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, spread your favorite Chocolate Fudge Frosting generously between and on top of the layers to finish this show-stopping dessert.

How to Serve Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake Recipe – Matilda Cake

Garnishes

When it comes to garnishing your Matilda Cake, a sprinkle of chocolate shavings, fresh berries, or a dusting of cocoa powder adds a beautiful touch. These simple accents make the cake look even more inviting and elevate its celebration-ready appearance.

Side Dishes

This chocolate cake pairs delightfully with whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of raspberry sauce. These accompaniments provide a refreshing contrast that balances the rich chocolate flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving slices stacked on elegant dessert plates, each adorned with a mint sprig and a few berries to add color and freshness. Alternatively, cut the cake into smaller, bite-sized squares if you prefer finger-friendly treats for parties or gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and keep them covered in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps the cake moist and delicious without drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze unfrosted cake layers wrapped very well to prevent freezer burn for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge before frosting and serving.

Reheating

If you prefer your cake slightly warm, microwave a slice for 10 to 15 seconds. This gently melts the frosting and intensifies the chocolate aroma, making each bite even more comforting and luscious.

FAQs

Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of Dutch-process?

Yes, but the flavor and color will be a bit different. Dutch-process cocoa is less acidic and has a smoother flavor, which works beautifully in this recipe.

Is coffee really necessary in the cake batter?

The coffee plays a key role in boosting the chocolate flavor without imparting a strong coffee taste. It’s highly recommended for the best results.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Substituting gluten-free flour blends can work, but results may vary. It’s best to use a blend designed for baking to maintain the cake’s texture.

What frosting pairs best with this chocolate cake?

A rich Chocolate Fudge Frosting complements the cake perfectly, adding extra decadence and moisture to every bite.

How long will this cake stay fresh?

When properly stored in an airtight container at room temperature, this cake stays fresh and moist for up to three days.

Final Thoughts

This Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake Recipe – Matilda Cake truly is a treasure for anyone who loves a deeply chocolaty, moist cake that’s straightforward to make yet impressive to serve. Once you try it, I’m sure it will become one of your go-to recipes for celebrations or just sweet moments day to day. Give it a go, and get ready to fall in love with chocolate all over again!

Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake Recipe – Matilda Cake Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 25 reviews

Author: Julian
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake Recipe is a rich, moist chocolate cake made with a perfect balance of cocoa, coffee, and buttermilk to create a deep chocolate flavor. Paired with a luscious chocolate fudge frosting, this cake is perfect for celebrations and chocolate lovers alike.

Instructions

Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper and spray them lightly with baking spray to ensure the cakes release easily after baking.
Whisk dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, Dutch-process cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined and free of lumps.
Add wet ingredients: Stir in the vegetable oil, making sure the dry ingredients are well coated. Then add the eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and fully incorporated.
Combine buttermilk and coffee: Slowly stir in the buttermilk until just combined, then carefully pour in the hot brewed coffee. Mix gently until the batter is smooth and homogenous, which helps develop the rich chocolate flavor.
Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Cool: Let the cakes cool for about 10 minutes in their pans, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Complete cooling is essential before frosting to prevent melting.
Frost: Prepare the Chocolate Fudge Frosting following its specific recipe instructions. Once the cake layers are fully cooled, evenly spread the frosting over the layers, assembling the cake as desired.

Notes

Make sure coffee is hot but not boiling when added to the batter for the best flavor integration.
Room temperature eggs and buttermilk help ensure a smoother batter and better rise.
Lining cake pans with parchment paper guarantees easy removal and clean edges.
Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting to avoid melting the frosting.
The chocolate fudge frosting recipe mentioned should be prepared separately; it enhances the cake’s richness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American