Learn How to Make a Classic Matilda Cake at Home

I’ve always loved Roald Dahl’s stories, especially the scene in “Matilda” where Bruce Bogtrotter eats a huge chocolate cake. This moment has stuck with me, making me want to make that cake myself. Now, thanks to the Matilda cake recipe going viral, I can finally make it.

This chocolate cake, inspired by the film, has become a hit online. It has over 16 million views on TikTok and Instagram. It’s made with simple ingredients like cocoa powder, oil, and buttermilk. It’s also easy to make, even for beginners.

Let’s start a tasty adventure to make the Matilda cake at home. We’ll capture the magic of that movie scene and make a chocolate dream come true.

The Story Behind Bruce Bogtrotter’s Famous Matilda Cake

In Roald Dahl’s Matilda, Bruce Bogtrotter eats an 18-inch chocolate cake as punishment. This scene has been loved for years. It has also inspired many to bake the cake.

The Iconic Chocolate Cake Scene from Roald Dahl’s Classic

The 1996 Matilda movie shows Bruce Bogtrotter eating a huge chocolate cake. It’s rich and moist, with chocolate frosting. Bruce eats the whole cake, impressing his classmates.

How the Movie Scene Inspired a Culinary Legend

The chocolate cake scene has become famous worldwide. Bakeries and restaurants have made their own Matilda cakes. These creations honor Bruce Bogtrotter and the story of Matilda.

“The Matilda Cake by Megamax is designed to serve 2-4 people and features three massive pieces of chocolate sponge cake with chocolate ganache in between each layer. It’s a visually striking dessert that truly captures the indulgence and drama of the iconic scene.”

Essential Ingredients for Your Chocolate Masterpiece

To make the famous Matilda Cake, you need a special list of ingredients. At the core are flour, sugar, and Dutch-process cocoa powder. These ingredients create the cake’s rich taste and fluffy texture.

The recipe also includes baking powder and baking soda for a perfect rise. A bit of salt balances the sweetness. Vegetable oil adds moisture, while eggs and vanilla enhance the flavor. The secret ingredient is hot brewed coffee, which deepens the chocolate taste.

For the frosting, you’ll need heavy cream, cocoa powder, bittersweet chocolate, butter, powdered sugar, and a bit of espresso. With these ingredients, you’re ready to make your own matilda cake ingredients and chocolate cake recipe masterpiece.

For the chocolate fudge frosting, you’ll need heavy cream, more unsweetened cocoa powder, bittersweet chocolate, butter, powdered sugar, and a touch of espresso powder.

Kitchen Tools and Equipment You’ll Need

Baking the classic Matilda chocolate cake at home needs the right tools. You’ll need baking pans and decorating tools. Having the right tools makes baking a success.

Baking Pans and Mixing Tools

Begin with two 8-inch round cake pans for the layers. You’ll also need a large mixing bowl, a whisk, and a rubber spatula. A wire rack is key for cooling the cakes after baking.

Temperature Control and Measuring Equipment

Accurate measurements are crucial in baking. Use a digital kitchen scale for ingredients like flour and cocoa powder. A reliable oven thermometer ensures the right temperature.

Decorating Essentials

For the chocolate fudge frosting and decorations, a hand mixer or stand mixer is needed. Piping bags and decorating tips make frosting the cake easy. Cake release or cooking spray and parchment paper rounds prepare the pans.

With the right tools, you’re ready to make a stunning Matilda chocolate cake. It would make Bruce Bogtrotter proud.

Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions

Making the famous Matilda chocolate cake at home is a fun baking journey. Start by heating your oven to 350°F (176°C). Also, get your baking pans ready. In a big mixing bowl, mix together the dry ingredients.

These include 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 cups of white sugar, 2/3 cup of dark cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of baking powder.

Then, add the wet ingredients. These are 1 cup of vegetable oil, 1 large egg, 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and 1 cup of buttermilk. Mix gently to coat the dry ingredients with oil. After that, add 2/3 cup of boiling water and mix until smooth.

1. Pour the cake batter into your pans evenly.
2. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
3. Allow the cakes to cool fully before frosting and assembling.
4. For the best taste, wrap the cakes in plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.

By following these steps, you’ll make a classic Matilda chocolate cake. It will taste amazing and impress everyone. Get ready to enjoy the rich, decadent flavors that have made this recipe famous.

Making the Perfect Chocolate Fudge Frosting

Making a rich, decadent chocolate fudge frosting is key to a great Matilda Cake. It should be smooth, creamy, and have a deep chocolate flavor. We’ll show you how to get the right consistency and a glossy finish.

Achieving the Right Consistency

The secret to a silky-smooth frosting is the right mix of chocolate and cream. Use a 3:1 ratio, like 1500g of chocolate to 500g of heavy cream. Heat the cream until it nearly reaches a boil, then pour it over the chocolate.

Let it sit for 5 minutes, then whisk until it’s smooth and shiny. Chill the ganache until firm, then whip it until it’s light and fluffy.

Tips for Smooth and Glossy Results

• Use a mix of semi-sweet and dark chocolate for a richer flavor. Aim for 8 ounces of semi-sweet and 4 ounces of dark.
• Add a bit of corn syrup or honey for a glossy finish.
• Sift the cocoa powder to avoid lumps.
• Chill the frosting for at least 30 minutes before using.
• Use a food scale for accurate measurements.

Follow these tips and you’ll make a chocolate fudge frosting fit for the Matilda Cake. The key is finding the perfect balance of chocolate and cream.

Assembly and Decoration Techniques

Making a stunning chocolate cake is more than just baking. The assembly and decoration steps are key. Whether it’s Bruce Bogtrotter’s Matilda cake or your own creation, these steps will help you achieve a pro look.

Start by cutting the cooled cake layers in half with a serrated knife. This increases the surface area for decoration and creates a layered effect. Next, brush chocolate milk between the layers to keep the cake moist and tasty.

1. Spread whipped chocolate ganache or rich chocolate frosting between the layers. Make sure it’s even and smooth.
2. Apply a thin “crumb coat” of frosting around the outside. Refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to set.
3. Finish with a layer of chocolate fudge frosting. Smooth it over with a spatula or offset icing knife. This will give a glossy, professional finish.

Let the cake come to room temperature before serving. This allows the frosting to soften. Decorate the top with chocolate shavings, cocoa powder, or other toppings for a Matilda-inspired look.

By mastering these techniques, you can make the iconic Matilda cake in your kitchen. Impress your family and friends with your baking skills and attention to detail.

Storage Tips and Shelf Life

To keep your chocolate cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This helps retain its moisture and prevents it from drying out.

For longer storage, the freezer is best. Individually wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then cover it with foil. This keeps the cake fresh for up to 2 months. To thaw, let it sit at room temperature until it’s ready to eat.

Freezing and Thawing Guidelines

Freezing your cake extends its life. Wrap the slices tightly to avoid freezer burn. To thaw, let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to an hour.

If your cake has ganache frosting, it will harden in the fridge. Let it come to room temperature before serving. This will make the ganache smooth and silky again.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the famous Matilda chocolate cake from scratch is rewarding. But, it’s key to avoid common baking mistakes. Follow these tips to get a moist, perfect cake every time.

First, don’t overmix your batter. This can make your cake tough and dense. Instead, gently mix your ingredients until they’re just combined.

Also, watch your cake closely to avoid overbaking. Check if it’s done a few minutes before the recipe says. An overbaked cake will be dry and not as fudgy as you want.

1. Make sure all your ingredients, like eggs and butter, are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can mess up your batter.
2. Use a kitchen scale to measure your flour precisely. Incorrect measurements can negatively affect your cake’s texture and outcome.
3. Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to avoid the ganache melting and creating a mess.
4. Give the ganache enough time to cool down. This ensures it’s smooth and spreadable.

By following these baking tips and avoiding common chocolate cake troubleshooting mistakes, you’ll make a Matilda cake that’s as good as Bruce Bogtrotter’s.

“The perfect Matilda cake is worth the effort – a rich, moist chocolate indulgence that will leave you wanting more.”

Conclusion

The Matilda-inspired chocolate cake is a rich, indulgent treat. It brings the beloved movie scene to life. With moist layers and decadent chocolate fudge frosting, it’s perfect for special occasions or when you crave a chocolate masterpiece.

Whether you love the book, the movie, or just great chocolate cakes, this recipe will impress. It’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

This guide has everything you need to make your own Matilda cake at home. It’s easy to prepare and bake. Plus, you can freeze and store it for later.

So, get your ingredients ready, preheat your oven, and bake a Matilda cake. Enjoy each rich, chocolatey bite. Let the flavors of this iconic cake shine.

Enjoy your homemade Matilda cake. Remember, the best things in life are often simple. Like a perfectly crafted chocolate fudge cake.