Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake
This Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake is a showstopper! With moist chocolate cake layers and rich fudge frosting, it’s perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or any sweet craving. The combination of flavors and textures makes this cake unforgettable and sure to impress your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: The rich chocolate taste from both the cake and frosting creates an indulgent experience.
- Easy to Follow: Clear instructions make it simple for bakers of all levels to create this stunning cake.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, or just a sweet treat at home.
- Beautiful Presentation: The glossy fudge frosting adds elegance to your dessert table.
- Versatile Serving Size: This recipe yields 14 servings, making it great for gatherings.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into baking the Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake, gather your tools and prepare your kitchen space. Having everything ready will streamline the process and ensure a smooth baking experience.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- 2 8-inch round baking pans
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Saucepan
- Baking scale (optional)
- Offset spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients effectively without spilling.
- Parchment paper: Prevents the cake from sticking to the pan, ensuring easy removal.
- Offset spatula: Perfect for spreading frosting evenly on the cake surface.
Ingredients
This Matilda’s chocolate cake is made with moist chocolate cake layers that are topped and filled with a glossy chocolate fudge frosting.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/2 cups Flour
– 1 3/4 cups Granulated sugar
– 2 tsp Baking powder
– 1 tsp Baking soda
– 1/2 tsp Kosher salt
– 1/2 cup Cocoa powder
– 2/3 cup Vegetable oil
– 1 tsp Vanilla extract
– 3 Eggs
– 2/3 cup Buttermilk
– 1 cup Coffee (hot)
– 11.11 oz Butter (unsalted)
– 14.1 oz Dark chocolate (about 60%-70%)
– 1/3 cup Cocoa powder
– 1 1/3 cups Heavy cream
– 1 1/3 cups Powdered sugar
– 1/2 tsp Kosher salt
– 1 tsp Vanilla extract
How to Make Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Prepare two 8-inch baking pans by lining them with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
Sift together the flour, granulated sugar, kosher salt, baking powder, baking soda, and cocoa powder.
Whisk until well blended.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add the following to the dry mixture:
Buttermilk
Vegetable oil
Vanilla extract
Eggs
Mix until almost combined.
Step 4: Add Coffee
Slowly pour in the hot coffee. Mix until just combined; ensure no lumps of flour remain. The batter should be runny and smooth.
Step 5: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans. For best results, use cake strips to promote even baking. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. You can also use a larger (9-inch) pan if preferred.
Step 6: Cool Completely
Allow the cakes to cool completely in their pans before frosting; this prevents melting of the frosting when applied.
Step 7: Make Frosting
To create the chocolate fudge frosting:
In a saucepan over medium-high heat, combine:
Butter
Heavy cream
Dark chocolate
Sift in cocoa powder and powdered sugar along with kosher salt. Stir constantly until melted and smooth.
Step 8: Cool Frosting
Pour the mixture into a large bowl or baking pan. Cover it with plastic wrap directly on top to prevent skin formation. Let it cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes before refrigerating for another hour or two until thickened to desired consistency.
Step 9: Assemble Cake
Remove chilled frosting from fridge:
Pipe a small dollop of frosting on your serving plate. Place one layer of cake on top of it.
Step 10: Frost Layers
Spread about one-third of the frosting over the first layer using a spatula. Top with the second layer of cake, then frost with remaining icing. Use an offset spatula to create wave patterns if desired. If there’s excess frosting, save it for future delicious treats!
Enjoy your slice of this delightful Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake!
How to Serve Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake
Serving the Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake is an art in itself. Whether for a birthday, special occasion, or just because, how you present this delightful dessert can elevate its appeal. Here are some creative ideas to make your cake stand out.
Classic Slice
- Serve a generous slice of the cake on a decorative plate. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a timeless combination.
Whipped Cream Topping
- Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top of each slice. This addition complements the rich chocolate flavor beautifully.
Fresh Berries
- Garnish with a handful of fresh raspberries or strawberries. The tartness balances the sweetness of the cake perfectly.
Chocolate Shavings
- Sprinkle chocolate shavings or curls over the frosting for an elegant touch. This enhances both appearance and flavor, making every bite richer.
Dessert Platter
- Create a dessert platter featuring small slices of the cake alongside other treats like cookies or brownies. It offers variety and makes for an impressive display.
Coffee Pairing
- Serve slices with a cup of hot coffee or espresso. The bitterness of coffee pairs well with chocolate, enhancing its flavors.
How to Perfect Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake
Perfecting the Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake takes practice, but these tips will help you achieve bakery-level results every time.
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Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure that eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter.
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Measure flour accurately: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid adding too much, which can lead to dry cake.
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Don’t overmix the batter: Mix until just combined after adding wet ingredients; this prevents tough cake layers.
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Cool completely before frosting: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool fully. This helps prevent melting frosting.
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Chill your frosting: Allowing your frosting to cool thoroughly ensures it sets well and is easier to spread without sliding off.
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Experiment with flavors: Consider adding espresso powder or orange zest to the batter for unique twists on this classic recipe.
Best Side Dishes for Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake can enhance its enjoyment even more. Here are some delicious options that complement its rich flavors perfectly.
- Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a delightful contrast to the rich chocolate cake.
- Fruit Salad – A mix of fresh seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness, balancing out the sweetness.
- Chocolate Mousse – This decadent dessert can be served alongside for an indulgent treat that chocolate lovers will adore.
- Coffee or Espresso – A cup of strong coffee enhances the chocolate flavor while providing a nice caffeine kick.
- Homemade Caramel Sauce – Drizzling warm caramel over each slice brings added sweetness and depth to each bite.
- Cheesecake Bites – These rich, creamy bites offer another layer of flavor that pairs wonderfully with chocolate.
- Nutty Granola – A sprinkle of crunchy granola adds texture and nutty flavor that contrasts nicely with soft cake layers.
- Chocolate-Covered Strawberries – These sweet treats echo the cake’s flavor while adding freshness and elegance to your serving platter.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking the Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake can be a delightful experience, but certain mistakes can ruin your efforts. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.
- Skipping the ingredient sifting: Failing to sift dry ingredients can lead to lumps in your batter. Always sift flour and cocoa powder to ensure a smooth mix.
- Not measuring accurately: Using incorrect measurements can drastically affect the cake’s texture. Invest in a kitchen scale for precise ingredient amounts.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too long can result in a dense cake instead of a light one. Mix just until combined for a fluffy texture.
- Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at an incorrect temperature can cause uneven baking. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
- Cooling before frosting: Frosting a warm cake can lead to melted frosting. Ensure the cake is completely cool before adding any frosting.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Best consumed within 4-5 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Reheating Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 15-20 seconds.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making the Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake, here are some answers.
Can I use different types of chocolate?
Yes! You can use semi-sweet or milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter taste, but dark chocolate gives it depth.
How do I make it gluten-free?
To make this cake gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup like regular flour.
How do I store leftover frosting?
Leftover frosting can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. Just re-whip it before using again.
What is the best way to decorate this cake?
You can use chocolate shavings, fresh berries, or even edible flowers for decoration. Get creative with your toppings!
Final Thoughts
The Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. Its rich flavor makes it perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to casual family dinners. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or fillings! Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how easy it is to create something so wonderful.
Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 14 slices 1x
Description
Indulge in the Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake, a dreamy dessert that’s sure to impress. This recipe features layers of moist chocolate cake filled and topped with rich fudge frosting, creating a truly unforgettable treat. Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or simply satisfying a sweet craving, this cake combines decadent flavors and elegant presentation. With easy-to-follow instructions, even novice bakers can achieve stunning results. Serve it with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra touch.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 2/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 2/3 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup hot coffee
- 11.11 oz unsalted butter (for frosting)
- 14.1 oz dark chocolate (for frosting)
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder (for frosting)
- 1 1/3 cups heavy cream (for frosting)
- 1 1/3 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt (for frosting)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C) and prepare two 8-inch round baking pans with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
- Add buttermilk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and eggs to dry ingredients; mix until combined.
- Gradually add the hot coffee and mix until smooth.
- Divide the batter between prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool cakes before frosting.
- For frosting, melt butter with cream and dark chocolate in a saucepan; mix in cocoa powder and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Cool frosting before applying it to the cooled cakes.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 100g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
