Ingredients
Method
Step 1: Bake the Chocolate Cake
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk oil, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients, then slowly stir in the hot coffee.
- Divide batter evenly into pans.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs. Cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Fudge Frosting
- Heat cream until just boiling. Pour over chopped chocolate in a bowl and let sit 3 minutes.
- Stir until smooth. Add softened butter, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, salt, and vanilla.
- Mix until silky. Chill frosting until it thickens enough to spread.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
- Trim cake layers if needed for evenness.
- Place one cake layer on a stand, spread frosting generously on top.
- Add second layer, then frost top and sides with remaining frosting.
- Swirl frosting decoratively and let sit for 20 minutes before slicing.
Notes
🥄 Variations
Three Layers: Divide batter into three 6-inch pans for a taller cake Cupcakes: Bake in lined cupcake tins for 18–22 minutes Bundt Style: Use a well-greased Bundt pan and extend baking by 10–15 minutes Nutty Touch: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter Frosting Twist: Add a splash of espresso or almond extract for depth 🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead
Room Temperature: Store covered for 2 days Refrigerator: Keeps up to 5 days—bring to room temp before serving Freezer: Wrap individual slices and freeze up to 2 months ❓ 10 FAQs
Can I skip the coffee?
You can use hot water instead, but coffee intensifies the chocolate flavor. Is the cake overly sweet?
Not at all—the dark chocolate balances it beautifully. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes—use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. How do I get glossy frosting?
Don’t overwhip—stop once it’s smooth and shiny. Can I make it ahead?
Yes—bake and frost the day before for better flavor. Can kids eat this with coffee?
Yes—the taste is mild and caffeine minimal in each slice. What’s the best way to slice it cleanly?
Use a hot knife (dipped in warm water, then dried). Do I need Dutch-process cocoa?
It’s preferred for richness, but unsweetened natural cocoa also works. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—just use a larger pan or make multiple cakes. Is this cake good for birthdays?
It’s perfect! Just add candles and your favorite decorations. 🏁 Conclusion
This Matilda’s Chocolate Cake is a celebration in every slice—fudgy, rich, and unforgettable. Whether you’re reliving a movie moment or baking for someone special, it’s the ultimate chocolate cake that always steals the spotlight. Cut thick slices, grab a tall glass of milk, and dive into the dessert of your dreams. 🍫🎂✨
Three Layers: Divide batter into three 6-inch pans for a taller cake Cupcakes: Bake in lined cupcake tins for 18–22 minutes Bundt Style: Use a well-greased Bundt pan and extend baking by 10–15 minutes Nutty Touch: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter Frosting Twist: Add a splash of espresso or almond extract for depth 🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead
Room Temperature: Store covered for 2 days Refrigerator: Keeps up to 5 days—bring to room temp before serving Freezer: Wrap individual slices and freeze up to 2 months ❓ 10 FAQs
Can I skip the coffee?
You can use hot water instead, but coffee intensifies the chocolate flavor. Is the cake overly sweet?
Not at all—the dark chocolate balances it beautifully. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes—use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. How do I get glossy frosting?
Don’t overwhip—stop once it’s smooth and shiny. Can I make it ahead?
Yes—bake and frost the day before for better flavor. Can kids eat this with coffee?
Yes—the taste is mild and caffeine minimal in each slice. What’s the best way to slice it cleanly?
Use a hot knife (dipped in warm water, then dried). Do I need Dutch-process cocoa?
It’s preferred for richness, but unsweetened natural cocoa also works. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—just use a larger pan or make multiple cakes. Is this cake good for birthdays?
It’s perfect! Just add candles and your favorite decorations. 🏁 Conclusion
This Matilda’s Chocolate Cake is a celebration in every slice—fudgy, rich, and unforgettable. Whether you’re reliving a movie moment or baking for someone special, it’s the ultimate chocolate cake that always steals the spotlight. Cut thick slices, grab a tall glass of milk, and dive into the dessert of your dreams. 🍫🎂✨