Sandgate / Dessert Event
Battle of the Bruce at The Witchin' Kitchen
The Witchin' Kitchen takes its signature Matilda-inspired chocolate cake and proves how versatile a great gluten-free recipe can be, pushing distinct textures and unexpected flavour twists across every slice.
Holding up a tall stack of layered cake slices indoors, the scale of this tasting challenge became clear immediately. The Witchin' Kitchen in Sandgate built a one-day event around its iconic, Matilda-inspired chocolate cake, baking eight distinct gluten-free variations for the Battle of the Bruce showdown.
I kicked off the lineup with the Classic Bruce, a multi-layered dark chocolate slice that sets the benchmark as the cafe's best-selling cake every week. Taking that first bite, you genuinely could not tell that this deep, rich cake base is entirely gluten-free.
Is The Witchin’ Kitchen worth adding to your itinerary?
While the mystery eighth slice, Bruce X, remained un-tasted in the video run, working through seven distinct slices proved how versatile a top-tier gluten-free bake can be. Even though these special creative variations were baked for a one-day event, the original Classic Bruce remains a weekly fixture in Sandgate, giving chocolate lovers a reliable reason to stop by.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
Menu highlights
Highlights from Zen’s visit.
At a glance: what we ordered
- Classic Bruce
- Cookie Dough Bruce
- Mousse Bruce
- Birthday Bruce
- Cherry Ripe Bruce
- Boozy Bruce (Rum and Raisin)
- Betty Bruce
Rich Layers and Nostalgic Textures
The Cookie Dough Bruce was the slice I was most excited to try, stacked with distinct cookie dough layers set between dark chocolate cake. It certainly did not disappoint, delivering a satisfying balance of soft texture and chocolate richness.
For anyone chasing pure velvety depth, the thick Mousse Bruce stands out as remarkably rich and creamy. Next came the Birthday Bruce, also known as Freckle Bruce, covered in multi-coloured sprinkles and so moist it instantly brings back classic party cake nostalgia.
Fruit Contrasts and Boozy Twists
Stepping beyond standard chocolate layers brought some delightful surprises. The Cherry Ripe Bruce catches the eye right away with bright pink coconut and raspberry layers, introducing an unexpected fruity contrast to the chocolate base.
Then comes the rum and raisin slice, tagged as Boozy Bruce, crafted with an extra boozy finish that earns a strict 18+ warning. Sitting alongside lighter-hued options like the Betty Bruce, it shows just how far one chocolate cake concept can stretch without losing what makes the original work.
Finding a Favourite in Sandgate
While the mystery eighth slice, Bruce X, remained un-tasted in the video run, working through seven distinct slices proved how versatile a top-tier gluten-free bake can be. Even though these special creative variations were baked for a one-day event, the original Classic Bruce remains a weekly fixture in Sandgate, giving chocolate lovers a reliable reason to stop by.
GOOD TO KNOW
Frequently asked questions
Where is The Witchin' Kitchen located?
The Witchin' Kitchen is located in Sandgate, Queensland.
Are the Bruce cake slices gluten-free?
Yes, all Bruce cake variations created for the Battle of the Bruce lineup are completely gluten-free.
What inspired the original Bruce cake?
The Bruce cake is inspired by the famous cake-eating scene featuring Bruce Bogtrotter in Matilda.
KEEP EXPLORING
More places and guides connected to this visit
Zen visited in August 2026. Menus, ratings, prices and opening hours can change, so check directly with the venue before you go.
It was a pleasure to be invited to experience The Witchin’ Kitchen but all opinions shared are my own. Gifted collaboration