Microwave Mug Cake

🕒 Prep: 3 min
🔥 Cook: 1 minute
🍽 Serves: 8

Microwave mug cakes are the ultimate quick-fix dessert, perfect for those moments when you’re craving something sweet but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. This recipe is simple, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers a warm, chocolatey treat in less than five minutes.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Ready in under 5 minutes — ideal for instant gratification.
  • Uses basic pantry staples — nothing fancy required.
  • Perfect single-serving dessert — no leftovers to tempt you later.
  • Customizable — easy to tweak with your favorite flavors or add-ins.

Ingredients

3 tbsp all-purpose flour
3 tbsp granulated sugar
2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 tsp baking powder
3 tbsp milk
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1 pinch salt

Ingredients Explained

All-purpose flour gives the cake its structure, making it fluffy and soft. Granulated sugar sweetens the cake without making it overly rich. Unsweetened cocoa powder is key for that deep chocolate flavor, while baking powder helps it rise nicely in the mug. Milk adds moisture to the batter, ensuring a tender crumb, and vegetable oil keeps the cake moist without the need for butter. Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor, making the cake more aromatic, and a pinch of salt balances the sweetness and intensifies the chocolate taste.

Tips & Tricks

  • If you’re using a smaller mug, keep an eye on it to avoid overflow.
  • Microwave power varies — adjust your cooking time accordingly.
  • For a gooey center, try adding a small piece of chocolate or a spoonful of nutella in the batter before microwaving.

Detailed Instructions

Start by grabbing your favorite microwave-safe mug. You want something that holds at least 12 ounces to prevent overflow. In the mug, add 3 tablespoons of flour, 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/4 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Use a small whisk or fork to mix them together until they’re well combined and there are no lumps.

Next, pour in 3 tablespoons of milk, 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir everything together thoroughly so you have a smooth batter. Make sure there’s no dry flour lurking at the bottom.

Pop the mug into the microwave and cook on high for 60 to 70 seconds. Timing can vary based on your microwave’s power, so start with 60 seconds and add a bit more time if needed. You’ll know it’s done when the cake has risen and looks set on top. Let it cool for a minute — it’ll be piping hot, and you want to enjoy it without burning your tongue.

Simplified Instructions

1. In a microwave-safe mug, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
3. Microwave on high for 60-70 seconds until the cake has risen and is cooked through.
4. Let cool for a minute before enjoying your warm, personal-sized dessert.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy your mug cake as is, or take it up a notch by serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a fun twist, sprinkle some chopped nuts or chocolate chips on top while it’s still warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use almond milk or another non-dairy milk?
Yes, you can substitute any milk of your choice. It won’t affect the texture significantly.
What if I don’t have cocoa powder?
You can skip it for a vanilla mug cake or add a bit of chocolate syrup for a different chocolatey taste.
How can I tell if it's done?
The cake should be set on top and slightly spring back when touched. Avoid overcooking to keep it moist.

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