The 1996 movie Matilda, based on Roald Dahl’s beloved book, captured the imaginations of audiences worldwide with its whimsical characters and memorable scenes. One of the most iconic moments from the film is the chocolate cake scene, where Bruce Bogtrotter is forced by the tyrannical headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, to consume an enormous chocolate cake in front of the entire school. Despite the punishment, Bruce’s determination turns the situation into a triumphant moment as he devours the rich cake with gusto.
Ever since, fans of the movie have been curious: What is the chocolate cake in Matilda made of? What makes it so moist, rich, and utterly indulgent that it has left such a lasting impression on viewers? In this article, we will break down the essential ingredients of this decadent cake and share a recipe that allows you to recreate the famous Matilda chocolate cake in your own kitchen.
A Look at the Iconic Chocolate Cake Scene
Before diving into the ingredients, it’s important to revisit the significance of the chocolate cake in Matilda. In the story, the cake symbolizes the power dynamic between the oppressive Miss Trunchbull and the defiant Bruce Bogtrotter. Forced to eat the entire cake as punishment, Bruce turns the tables by triumphing over the challenge, much to the delight of his classmates.
But beyond its metaphorical weight, the cake itself looks incredibly tempting—a large, dark, and moist chocolate cake with rich frosting. So, what makes this cake so special?
What Makes Matilda’s Chocolate Cake So Indulgent?
The secret to the chocolate cake in Matilda lies in its ingredients. The cake in the movie is depicted as rich, moist, and intensely chocolatey, which can be achieved through specific key ingredients that elevate the cake from a standard dessert to a show-stopping treat.
Key Ingredients of the Matilda Chocolate Cake
Here’s a breakdown of the essential components that make up this unforgettable chocolate cake:
1. All-Purpose Flour
The base of any good cake starts with flour, and all-purpose flour is perfect for achieving a balanced crumb. It provides the structure that holds the cake together, while still allowing for a tender texture when combined with the right ingredients.
2. Granulated Sugar
For sweetness, granulated sugar is the key. Sugar not only adds sweetness to the cake but also helps retain moisture, giving the cake its characteristic moistness. The right amount of sugar creates a perfect balance between sweetness and the intense chocolate flavor.
3. Cocoa Powder (Preferably Dutch-Processed)
To achieve the dark, rich flavor and color of the Matilda chocolate cake, unsweetened cocoa powder is used. Dutch-processed cocoa powder is preferred because it has been treated with an alkali to neutralize its acidity, resulting in a smoother, deeper chocolate flavor.
The use of cocoa powder rather than melted chocolate allows the cake to have a stronger cocoa taste without the added sweetness of chocolate, which is why the cake in the movie looks and tastes so intense.
4. Vegetable Oil
One of the secrets to the Matilda chocolate cake’s moist texture is the use of vegetable oil instead of butter. Oil remains liquid at room temperature, making the cake incredibly soft and moist even days after baking. It also allows the other flavors, like chocolate, to shine through more prominently.
5. Buttermilk
The acidity in buttermilk adds a slight tang to the cake while helping to tenderize the crumb, making it softer. Buttermilk also works with the baking soda to give the cake a good rise, making it light and fluffy despite its dense appearance.
6. Baking Powder and Baking Soda
These leavening agents, baking powder and baking soda, are essential for giving the cake its lift and light texture. While baking soda reacts with the acidic buttermilk to help the cake rise, baking powder gives an extra boost to ensure the cake doesn’t come out too dense.
7. Hot Water or Coffee
A trick used in many rich chocolate cakes is the addition of hot water or hot coffee. Hot liquid helps to “bloom” the cocoa powder, releasing its full flavor and resulting in a more intense chocolate taste. In the case of hot coffee, it won’t make the cake taste like coffee but will enhance the chocolate flavor even more.
8. Eggs
Eggs play an important role in binding the ingredients together and providing structure. They also add richness and moisture, contributing to the overall tenderness of the cake.
9. Vanilla Extract
A touch of vanilla extract rounds out the flavor of the cake, adding warmth and enhancing the overall taste. While it’s not the star ingredient, vanilla works to balance the intensity of the cocoa, ensuring the cake isn’t too overpowering.
10. Chocolate Frosting
Last but certainly not least, no Matilda chocolate cake would be complete without a rich layer of chocolate frosting. The frosting in the movie is thick, creamy, and spread generously over the cake, giving it an irresistible appeal. A simple chocolate buttercream made from butter, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and cream is the perfect way to replicate the frosting seen in the movie.
Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Make the Matilda Chocolate Cake
Now that we’ve covered the key ingredients, it’s time to put them together in a recipe that will help you create your very own Matilda-inspired chocolate cake. Here’s a step-by-step guide to baking the cake at home:
Ingredients for the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-processed if possible)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 ½ cups buttermilk (room temperature)
- 1 ½ cups hot water (or hot coffee)
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Ingredients for the Chocolate Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 4 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup heavy cream (adjust as needed for consistency)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
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 release.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk to combine, ensuring there are no lumps.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the oil, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 4: Combine and Add Hot Liquid
Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed until combined. Then, gradually pour in the hot water (or coffee) while mixing. The batter will be thin, but that’s exactly what you want for a moist cake.
Step 5: 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 their pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Prepare the Frosting
While the cakes cool, prepare the frosting. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Slowly add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing on low speed to avoid a mess. Add the vanilla extract and gradually pour in the heavy cream until the frosting is smooth and fluffy. Adjust the consistency by adding more cream if needed.
Step 7: Assemble the Cake
Once the cakes have completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread an even layer of frosting over the top, then place the second layer on top. Frost the entire cake, covering the top and sides generously. For an extra touch, add chocolate shavings or sprinkles.
Variations on the Matilda Chocolate Cake
Although the classic version of the Matilda chocolate cake is hard to beat, there are several fun variations you can try to make it your own:
1. Matilda Chocolate Fudge Cake
For an even more indulgent version, add a layer of chocolate ganache between the cake layers and on top of the frosting. This adds a gooey, fudgy texture that takes the cake to a whole new level.
2. Matilda Triple Chocolate Cake
If you’re a serious chocolate lover, add chocolate chips to the batter and drizzle melted chocolate over the top for a triple chocolate experience.
3. Matilda Vegan Chocolate Cake
To make a vegan version of the cake, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use plant-based milk instead of buttermilk.
FAQs About Matilda Chocolate Cake
1. Can I make the Matilda chocolate cake in advance?
Yes! You can bake the cake layers a day ahead and store them, covered, at room temperature. The frosting can also be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just be sure to bring everything to room temperature before assembling.
2. Can I freeze the Matilda chocolate cake?
Absolutely! Once the cake is fully cooled, wrap each layer in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw the layers overnight in the refrigerator before frosting.
3. How do I make the cake extra moist?
The combination of vegetable oil, buttermilk, and hot liquid ensures a moist cake. However, to make the cake even more moist, you can brush the layers with simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water boiled until dissolved) before frosting.
Conclusion: What Is the Chocolate Cake in Matilda Made Of?
The chocolate cake in Matilda is a masterpiece of indulgence, featuring key ingredients like cocoa powder, vegetable oil, buttermilk, and hot water or coffee. These elements work together to create a rich, moist, and intensely chocolatey cake that captures the imagination of viewers and bakers alike. Whether you’re recreating this iconic cake for a party, a special event, or just because you love chocolate, following this recipe will give you a cake worthy of Bruce Bogtrotter himself.