Matildas Chocolate Cake (Print Page)

Rich, moist chocolate cake with creamy frosting. Perfect for celebrations and special occasions.

# What You Need:

→ Cake Batter

01 - 1.75 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 cup granulated sugar
03 - 0.75 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
04 - 1.5 tsp baking powder
05 - 1.5 tsp baking soda
06 - 0.5 tsp salt
07 - 2 large eggs
08 - 1 cup whole milk
09 - 0.5 cup vegetable oil
10 - 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
11 - 1 cup boiling water

→ Chocolate Frosting

12 - 0.85 cup unsalted butter, softened
13 - 2.75 cups powdered sugar
14 - 0.75 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
15 - 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
16 - 0.25 cup whole milk, as needed
17 - Pinch of salt

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
02 - Sift together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl.
03 - Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed until smooth and thoroughly combined.
04 - Carefully pour in boiling water while mixing. Continue beating until batter becomes glossy and thin.
05 - Divide batter evenly between the prepared pans.
06 - Bake for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
07 - Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then remove to wire racks to cool completely.
08 - Beat softened butter until creamy. Gradually sift in powdered sugar and cocoa powder, beating until fully incorporated.
09 - Mix in vanilla extract and salt. Add milk one tablespoon at a time until frosting reaches spreadable consistency.
10 - Place first cake layer on serving plate. Spread frosting evenly over top.
11 - Position second layer on top. Frost top and sides completely, smoothing with spatula. Decorate as desired before slicing.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The boiling water creates an impossibly moist crumb that stays tender for days
  • Everything comes together in one bowl with minimal fuss
02 -
  • The batter will look terrifyingly thin after adding boiling water but this is what creates the moist texture
  • Let the cakes cool completely before frosting or your frosting will melt right off
03 -
  • Room temperature ingredients blend more easily and create a smoother batter
  • Invest in good quality cocoa powder since its the main flavor profile

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