Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This mug cake is the ultimate no-fuss dessert. It uses basic pantry ingredients, requires no special equipment, and is ready in under five minutes from start to finish. Best of all, it delivers the same comforting, chocolatey goodness of a full-sized cake in a perfectly portioned serving. Whether you’re short on time or just want something sweet right now, this recipe is the answer.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- All-purpose flour
- Granulated sugar
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- Vegetable oil or melted butter
- Vanilla extract
- Optional: chocolate chips or chunks
Directions
- Choose your mug: Use a microwave-safe mug that holds at least 12 ounces to avoid overflow.
- Mix dry ingredients: In the mug, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to eliminate any lumps.
- Add wet ingredients: Stir in milk, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. Make sure to scrape the bottom and sides of the mug.
- Add chocolate chips (optional): Fold in a few chocolate chips or chunks for a gooey center.
- Microwave: Cook on high for 60–90 seconds, depending on your microwave’s power. The cake should rise and appear set on top.
- Cool slightly: Let it sit for 1–2 minutes before eating. Top with whipped cream, ice cream, or powdered sugar if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 1 person.
Prep time: 3 minutes
Cook time: 1–2 minutes
Cooling time: 2 minutes
Total time: About 5 minutes
Variations
- Double chocolate mug cake: Add extra chocolate chips or a spoonful of chocolate hazelnut spread in the center.
- Peanut butter swirl: Drop in a teaspoon of peanut butter and swirl it into the batter before microwaving.
- Gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
- Vegan version: Use plant-based milk and oil, and ensure chocolate chips are dairy-free.
- Mint chocolate: Add a drop of peppermint extract for a cool twist.
Storage/Reheating
This mug cake is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, cover and refrigerate for up to 1 day.
To reheat, microwave for about 10–15 seconds until warm. Note that reheated mug cake may become slightly denser.
Because it’s so quick to make, it’s best to prepare it fresh rather than storing in advance.
FAQs
Can I make this without eggs?
Yes! This recipe is naturally egg-free, which helps keep the texture soft and fluffy.
Why did my mug cake overflow?
Your mug might be too small. Use a 12-ounce mug or larger to give the batter room to rise.
Can I mix the ingredients in a bowl first?
Absolutely. You can mix the batter in a small bowl and then pour it into the mug for a cleaner look.
How do I know when it’s done?
The top should look set and slightly springy to the touch. If it’s wet or jiggly, microwave for an additional 10–15 seconds.
Is this cake supposed to be dense or fluffy?
It should be light and fluffy, but still moist. Overcooking can make it rubbery, so check early.
Can I add frosting?
Yes, but it’s often rich enough on its own. A dollop of whipped cream or scoop of ice cream works great too.
Can I make a sugar-free version?
Yes, use a sugar substitute suitable for baking, keeping in mind that it may slightly alter texture and flavor.
Why is there no egg in the recipe?
Egg isn’t needed in small-batch cakes like this. It can make the texture rubbery in a microwave mug cake.
Can I use hot cocoa mix instead of cocoa powder?
You can, but it will be sweeter and less chocolatey. Adjust the sugar to taste if using a mix.
Can I double the recipe?
It’s best to make separate servings in individual mugs. Doubling in one mug may cause uneven cooking.
Conclusion
Chocolate Mug Cake is the perfect solution when you want a homemade dessert without the time or cleanup. With simple ingredients and just a few minutes, you can enjoy a warm, comforting cake straight from the microwave. Whether you’re baking for one or just need a quick chocolate fix, this recipe delivers every time.
PrintChocolate Mug Cake
Chocolate Mug Cake is a quick, single-serve dessert made in the microwave with just a handful of ingredients. Ready in minutes, it’s rich, fluffy, and perfect for satisfying last-minute chocolate cravings without the hassle of baking a full cake.
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Cook Time: 1–2 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Microwave
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
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Instructions
Use a microwave-safe mug (at least 12 oz capacity) to prevent overflow.,Add flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt to the mug. Stir to combine.,Stir in milk, oil, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and lump-free.,If using, fold in chocolate chips or chunks.,Microwave on high for 60 to 90 seconds. The top should look set and springy. Do not overcook.,Let the cake cool for 1–2 minutes before serving. Enjoy as-is or top with ice cream, whipped cream, or powdered sugar.
Notes
Microwave power varies. Start with 60 seconds and add more time in 10-second intervals if needed.,This cake is best served warm and fresh.,For a gooey center, place a piece of chocolate or a spoonful of nut butter in the center before microwaving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mug cake
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: undefined
- Trans Fat: undefined
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
