Decadent Matilda Chocolate Cake

Introduction

The Matilda Chocolate Cake is a rich, velvety cake that will remind you of the delicious, gooey chocolate cake Matilda devoured in the famous scene from the book. This cake is moist, deeply chocolatey, and covered with a silky ganache, making it a true chocolate lover’s dream. It’s perfect for birthdays, special celebrations, or when you simply want to indulge in a luxurious dessert.

Ingredients (Quantities)

For the Chocolate Cake:

• All-purpose flour: 2 cups (240g)
• Granulated sugar: 2 cups (400g)
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: 3/4 cup (75g)
• Baking soda: 1 1/2 teaspoons
• Baking powder: 1 1/2 teaspoons
• Salt: 1 teaspoon
• Eggs: 3 large
• Whole milk: 1 cup (240ml)
• Vegetable oil: 1/2 cup (120ml)
• Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons
• Boiling water: 1 cup (240ml)

For the Chocolate Ganache Topping:

• Dark chocolate: 8 oz (225g), chopped
• Heavy cream: 1 cup (240ml)
• Butter: 2 tablespoons (30g), softened
• Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven and prepare the pans:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Make the cake batter:
   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
   • Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
   • Carefully add the boiling water to the batter, mixing until smooth. The batter will be thin, but that’s okay—it will result in a moist, dense cake.
3. Bake the cake:
   • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
   • Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove them from the pans and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Make the chocolate ganache:
   • In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped dark chocolate and heavy cream.
   • Heat the mixture in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
   • Stir in the softened butter and vanilla extract (if using) until the ganache is glossy and smooth.
   • Let the ganache cool for about 10 minutes until it thickens slightly but is still pourable.
5. Assemble the cake:
   • Once the cakes have cooled completely, place one cake layer on a serving platter or cake stand.
   • Pour a generous amount of ganache over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides.
   • Place the second cake layer on top and pour the remaining ganache over the entire cake, spreading it evenly with a spatula to cover the top and sides.
6. Serve:
   • Allow the ganache to set for about 20 minutes before slicing the cake. Serve as is, or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Tips for Success

• Avoid overmixing: Mix the batter until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough cake.
• Ganache consistency: If the ganache is too runny, let it cool for a few more minutes to thicken before pouring it over the cake. If it’s too thick, you can gently reheat it to reach a pourable consistency.
• Moisture: The boiling water makes the batter thin but ensures the cake stays moist and decadent. Don’t be tempted to skip this step.
• Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer storage.

Recommendations

• Add a twist: For an added depth of flavor, you can add a tablespoon of instant coffee or espresso powder to the batter to enhance the chocolate taste.
• Garnish: Top with chocolate shavings, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar for a decorative finish.

Nutrition Information (per slice, based on 12 servings)

• Calories: 500
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 25g
• Sugar: 40g
• Fiber: 3g

This Decadent Matilda Chocolate Cake is the ultimate indulgence for any chocolate lover. With its rich, moist layers and silky ganache topping, it’s a dessert that will delight your taste buds and make any occasion extra special!