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Best Matilda’s Chocolate Cake (Bruce Bogtrotter–Worthy!)

A rich, ultra-moist chocolate layer cake inspired by the iconic Matilda movie scene, finished with glossy dark chocolate ganache.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Autumn
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Chocolate Cake
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 0.75 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1.5 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 0.5 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 eggs large
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup hot brewed coffee
Ganache Frosting
  • 1.5 cups heavy cream
  • 12 oz dark chocolate chopped
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 pinch salt

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking sheet
  • Wire rack
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare and line two 9-inch cake pans.
  2. Whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. Mix milk, oil, eggs, and vanilla. Combine with dry ingredients.
  4. Stir in hot coffee until batter is smooth and thin.
  5. Divide into pans and bake 30–35 minutes.
  6. Cool completely before frosting.
  7. Heat cream and pour over chopped chocolate. Stir until smooth. Add butter, vanilla, and salt.
  8. Frost cake with ganache and let set before slicing.

Notes

Use high-quality cocoa and chocolate for best flavor. Coffee enhances chocolate taste without adding coffee flavor.