Name: Matilda's Chocolate Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water

Matilda’s Chocolate Cake: A Delectable Family Favorite

There’s something truly magical about a homemade chocolate cake, and Matilda’s Chocolate Cake captures that charm beautifully. With its rich, moist texture and deep, indulgent flavor, this cake is sure to fill your home with the warm, mouthwatering aroma of baked goodness. Imagine slicing into a cake that’s dark with chocolate and complemented by a silky-smooth frosting that glistens invitingly. The velvety crumb, soft as a cloud, makes each bite melt in your mouth, while the chocolatey aroma tantalizes your senses, beckoning family and friends to indulge. Perfect for weeknight treats or special gatherings, Matilda’s Chocolate Cake promises to bring people together in the sweetest way.

This delightful recipe is also incredibly easy to follow, making it an ideal choice for novice bakers and seasoned pros alike. Whether it’s a birthday celebration, a casual dessert after dinner, or even a cozy evening with a cup of tea, you can’t go wrong with this cake. So gather your ingredients and let’s create a dessert that is bound to become a beloved staple in your household. Trust me; you’ll want to share this indulgent treat with everyone you know!

Understanding This Recipe

Matilda’s Chocolate Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a heartfelt expression of love and comfort. The origins of chocolate cake date back to the early 19th century when the sweet treat began gaining popularity in America after the introduction of cocoa powder. This recipe stands out due to its simplicity and depth of flavor, capturing the essence of traditional chocolate cake while employing modern baking methods to enhance texture and result in dreamy moistness. What sets this recipe apart is its use of everyday pantry essentials, making it accessible to everyone, regardless of your level of experience in the kitchen.

Using a simple mixing bowl and a whisk, this recipe demonstrates that great flavor doesn’t require complicated techniques or fancy gadgets. It’s the perfect choice for busy families looking to create memorable moments without spending hours in the kitchen. If you’re entertaining guests, Matilda’s Chocolate Cake not only impresses visually with its rich, dark layers, but its decadent taste also keeps guests coming back for seconds. Consider serving it warm, topped with powdered sugar or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, for an unforgettable ending to any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Matilda’s Chocolate Cake is truly a joy to bake and enjoy for several reasons that cater to both home cooks and taste testers.

Ease of preparation: The step-by-step instructions make it a breeze, even for beginners. No complicated techniques are needed—in just a few steps, you’ll create a masterpiece.
Flavor complexity: The deep, rich flavor of the cocoa pairs beautifully with the sweetness of sugar, providing a cake that has the perfect balance of taste without being overwhelmingly sweet.
Family-friendly or kid-approved: Kids love chocolate, and they’ll be thrilled to help bake and decorate this cake with you. It’s a wonderful opportunity for bonding over a shared kitchen adventure!
Budget-friendly or ingredient flexibility: Most ingredients used in this recipe are staples you likely already have on hand, allowing for quick prep without breaking the bank. Plus, you can easily swap out ingredients depending on your pantry.

How to Make Matilda’s Chocolate Cake at Home

Baking Matilda’s Chocolate Cake is a straightforward process that results in a sumptuous dessert everyone will adore. You’ll need basic baking tools such as mixing bowls, measuring cups, an electric mixer, and a standard 9-inch round cake pan. Start by gathering your ingredients and preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C), so it’s hot and ready for your cake. In just around 1 hour, you’ll be indulging in a slice of chocolate perfection.

Ingredients

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour: This forms the base of your cake and gives it structure.
1 ½ cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps it rise.
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Provides the deep chocolate flavor that defines this cake.
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake achieve that light and fluffy texture.
1 ½ teaspoons baking soda: Another leavening agent, contributing to the cake’s rise.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors in the cake.
2 large eggs: Adds richness and moisture to the batter.
1 cup whole milk: Makes the cake moist and tender.
½ cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake soft and fresh.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds a lovely, warm flavor to complement the chocolate.
1 cup boiling water: Intensifies the cocoa flavor and results in a moist cake.

Directions

Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously greasing and flouring your 9-inch round cake pans.
Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them together until well mixed, making sure there are no lumps of cocoa.
Combine the wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla until everything is fully incorporated.
Combine wet and dry ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the batter is well mixed.
Add boiling water: Carefully stir in the boiling water. The batter will be thin, but that’s perfectly normal! The hot water enhances the cocoa’s flavor and helps create a moist cake.
Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

With each step, your kitchen will fill with the delightful aroma of chocolate baking, and your anticipation will grow until you can finally dig in.

What to Serve With Matilda’s Chocolate Cake

Matilda’s Chocolate Cake is best enjoyed on its own, but it can also be elevated with some delightful pairings. Consider serving it with a dusting of powdered sugar or a generous dollop of whipped cream for a classic touch. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side adds creaminess that beautifully contrasts the cake’s rich chocolate flavor. For a more sophisticated approach, drizzle a homemade chocolate ganache or raspberry sauce over the top to enhance both appearance and taste.

Additionally, pairing slices of this indulgent treat with a piping hot cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of milk makes for a comforting experience. The warm, robust flavors complement each other delightful, enhancing the savoriness of the chocolate cake while adding a touch of familiarity.

Top Tips for Perfecting Matilda’s Chocolate Cake

To ensure that Matilda’s Chocolate Cake turns out flawless, paying attention to technique and ingredients is key.

Quality matters: Use good-quality cocoa powder for the best flavor. Brands such as Dutch-processed cocoa can significantly enhance the depth of your cake.
Don’t overmix: Once you combine the dry and wet ingredients, avoid overmixing, as this can lead to a dense texture. Mix until just combined.
Check for doneness: Use the toothpick test for doneness. A few moist crumbs should stick to the toothpick—this ensures a moist cake without underbaking.
Storage tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for a couple of days, or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
Common mistakes: One frequent issue is overbaking, which can dry out the cake. Keep an eye on it as it approaches the 30-minute mark.

Variations & Add-Ins

Want to put a unique twist on Matilda’s Chocolate Cake? Here are a few variations to explore:

Chocolate Chip Variation: Fold in 1 cup of dark chocolate chips into the batter before baking for bursts of melted chocolate throughout the cake.
Nutty Surprise: Incorporate half a cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy contrast to the soft texture of the cake.
Mint Chocolate: Add a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the wet ingredients for a refreshing mint chocolate cake. It works wonderfully alongside the rich chocolate flavors.

Kid-Friendly Version

To make Matilda’s Chocolate Cake a bit more kid-friendly, consider adjusting the flavors and presentation. Reducing the cocoa powder slightly can make it less intense for younger palates. Additionally, presenting the cake as fun layered cupcakes can be enticing for children, allowing them to enjoy their very own piece. You might even invite them to help with frosting by providing colorful sprinkles, chocolate shavings, or fun decorations to top off their creations!

Storing and Reheating Tips

When it comes to storing Matilda’s Chocolate Cake, it’s best to keep it in an airtight container at room temperature if consumed within two days. If you plan on enjoying it later, store slices in the refrigerator where they can last up to a week. For optimal freshness, consider wrapping it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to help retain moisture. There’s something comforting about a slice of chocolate cake waiting patiently in the fridge!

Reheating your leftover slices is equally straightforward. You can gently warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or zap them in the microwave for approximately 15-20 seconds. If you’ve frozen the cake, leave it in the fridge overnight to thaw, then follow the same reheating technique to regain that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

FAQs

Can I make this cake a day ahead?
Absolutely! This cake holds up well, and baking it a day ahead will allow the flavors to develop. Just make sure to store it properly.

Can I substitute any ingredients for dietary restrictions?
Yes, you can use almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option, and swapping in gluten-free flour can make this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets.

How can I make this cake more chocolatey?
For an added chocolate flavor, try using double the cocoa powder or adding chocolate chips into the batter for gooey pockets of chocolate.

Can I freeze this cake?
Yes! Matilda’s Chocolate Cake freezes wonderfully. Just wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in the freezer. They can last for up to three months!

What’s the ideal way to frost this cake?
A classic chocolate buttercream or cream cheese frosting pairs beautifully with this cake. Feel free to experiment with different flavors for your frosting!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Matilda’s Chocolate Cake is not just a dessert; it’s an invitation to share love, laughter, and delicious memories with family and friends. Its rich flavors and moist texture truly make it a standout recipe suitable for any occasion. This cake is more than just a sweet treat; it has the potential to become a cherished family tradition. So why wait? Try it tonight and let me know how it turned out!

Matilda’s Chocolate Cake

Print Recipe

A rich and moist chocolate cake perfect for any occasion, capturing the essence of love and comfort in every bite.

Author: hannah-reed
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour 9-inch round cake pans.
In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla.
Combine wet and dry ingredients, beating on medium speed for 2 minutes.
Stir in the boiling water carefully.
Pour batter into prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.