This Matilda’s Chocolate Cake recipe recreates the rich, moist chocolate cake made famous in the 1996 film Matilda. With deep cocoa flavor, a tender crumb, and smooth chocolate frosting, this cake delivers bakery-style results using simple ingredients. Ideal for birthdays, celebrations, or chocolate lovers.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Matilda’s Chocolate Cake recipe has become one of the most searched movie-inspired desserts for good reason. Featured in the 1996 film Matilda, this chocolate cake is known for its dark color, moist texture, and bold chocolate taste. Home bakers love recreating this Matilda chocolate cake because it feels nostalgic while still delivering a reliable, crowd-pleasing dessert.
Unlike dry or overly sweet cakes, this Matilda’s Chocolate Cake recipe focuses on moisture, balance, and strong cocoa flavor. It is designed to bake evenly, frost smoothly, and slice cleanly, making it perfect for birthdays, special events, or a classic chocolate craving.
Print
Matilda’s Chocolate Cake Recipe – 1996 Movie Style Moist Chocolate Cake
Description
A rich and moist Matilda’s Chocolate Cake inspired by the 1996 movie with deep cocoa flavor and creamy frosting.
Ingredients
1¾ cups all-purpose flour
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 cups granulated sugar
1½ tsp baking powder
1½ tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup hot brewed coffee
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F and prepare cake pans.
2. Mix dry ingredients in a large bowl.
3. Combine wet ingredients in a separate bowl.
4. Mix wet and dry ingredients together.
5. Slowly add hot coffee and mix.
6. Bake 30–35 minutes and cool completely.
7. Prepare frosting and assemble cake.
Notes
For best results, use quality cocoa powder.
Chill cake before slicing for clean cuts.
Ingredients
Chocolate Cake Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1¾ cups |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | ¾ cup |
| Granulated sugar | 2 cups |
| Baking powder | 1½ tsp |
| Baking soda | 1½ tsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Whole milk | 1 cup |
| Vegetable oil | ½ cup |
| Vanilla extract | 2 tsp |
| Hot brewed coffee | 1 cup |
Chocolate Frosting Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | ½ cup |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | ⅔ cup |
| Powdered sugar | 3 cups |
| Heavy cream | ⅓ cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| Salt | Pinch |
Step-by-Step Instructions
How to Make the Cake
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease two 9-inch round cake pans, lining the bottoms with parchment paper. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until fully combined. In a separate bowl, mix eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Slowly pour in the hot coffee while mixing on low speed. The batter will be thin, which is key for a moist Matilda chocolate cake.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Make the Frosting
Melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat, then whisk in cocoa powder until smooth. Remove from heat and alternate adding powdered sugar and cream, beating until creamy. Add vanilla and salt, then beat until spreadable.
Assembling the Cake
Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of frosting on top. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides evenly. Chill for 30 minutes before slicing for clean edges.
Conclusion
Matilda’s Chocolate Cake is a timeless dessert that delivers deep chocolate flavor and a soft, moist crumb every time. Inspired by the unforgettable 1996 movie scene, this recipe balances richness without becoming heavy. Whether served as a Matilda birthday cake or a weekend treat, this chocolate cake always earns compliments and disappears fast.
FAQ
What makes Matilda’s chocolate cake so moist?
The use of oil, milk, and hot coffee creates a tender crumb and locks in moisture.
Is this the same cake from the Matilda movie?
This recipe recreates the look, texture, and flavor inspired by the 1996 film version.
Can I make this Matilda cake ahead of time?
Yes, the cake layers can be baked one day ahead and wrapped tightly.
Can I use this recipe for cupcakes?
Yes, bake at 350°F for 18–20 minutes for chocolate cupcakes.