There’s something magical about a chocolate mug cake—it’s the dessert you whip up when life calls for indulgence but time says no. For me, this little treasure has saved many late-night cravings, especially after long days when the idea of turning on the oven feels like a chore.
With just a handful of pantry staples, you can have a rich, gooey, single-serving cake in less time than it takes to brew a cup of tea. It’s like having a slice of rich chocolate cake without the effort or cleanup.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the instant gratification it delivers. It’s not just quick; it’s foolproof. No mixers, no special pans—just a mug, a microwave, and five minutes to pure chocolate bliss.
And if you’re feeling fancy, pair it with a dollop of French buttercream for an elevated twist. What sets this one apart? The secret is a dash of espresso powder that intensifies the cocoa’s depth and a pinch of sea salt that makes every bite pop.
Perfect for busy evenings, unexpected guests, or when you just need something chocolatey, this mug cake has become my go-to treat.
What’s So Great About This Dish?
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- Instant Gratification: You’re only five minutes away from warm, gooey chocolate heaven.
- Customizable: Add a dollop of peanut butter, sprinkle in some mini marshmallows, or drizzle with caramel sauce to make it yours.
- Single Serving: Perfect for when you want indulgence without leftovers.
- Simple Ingredients: No fancy trips to the store—everything you need is likely already in your kitchen.
- Microwave Magic: Minimal dishes, minimal effort, maximum reward.
Easy Chocolate Mug Cake Recipe
Equipment
- Microwave
- Mug (microwave-safe)
- Measuring Utensils
- Mixing Spoon
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder unsweetened
- ⅛ teaspoon baking powder
- a pinch of salt
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a microwave-safe mug, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
- Add the milk, vegetable oil (or melted butter), and vanilla extract to the mug. Stir until the batter is smooth and no lumps remain.
- Microwave the mug on high for 1.5 to 2.5 minutes, depending on the wattage of your microwave. Start with 1.5 minutes and then check the cake’s consistency. It should rise and firm up but still be moist.
- Let the mug cake cool for a minute or two before digging in. You can enjoy it directly from the mug or transfer it to a plate and add toppings like whipped cream, chocolate chips, or a dusting of cocoa powder.
Notes
- Choose the Right Mug: Opt for a microwave-safe, straight-sided mug.
- Precise Measurement: Use standard measuring utensils for accurate amounts.
- Thorough Mixing: Ensure a lump-free batter with even distribution.
- Mind the Microwave: Start with the minimum cooking time to avoid dryness.
- Personalize Your Mug Cake: Experiment with add-ins and toppings for a customized treat.
Nutrition
Mug Cake Variations & Substitutions!
- FLAVOR VARIATIONS:
- Vanilla Mug Cake: Omit the cocoa powder and increase the vanilla extract for a vanilla-flavored cake.
- Mocha Mug Cake: Add a teaspoon of instant coffee or espresso powder for a chocolate-coffee twist.
- Fruity Twist: Stir in chopped berries, sliced banana, or a spoonful of fruit preserves for a fruity touch.
- NUTTY OPTIONS:
- Chocolate Nut Mug Cake: Fold in chopped nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts for added crunch.
- Peanut Butter Swirl: Drop a spoonful of peanut butter into the center of the batter before microwaving.
- DIETARY SUBSTITUTIONS:
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the mug cake suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute dairy-free milk (like almond or coconut milk) and use melted coconut oil instead of butter.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute dairy-free milk (like almond or coconut milk) and use melted coconut oil instead of butter.
- SWEETENERS:
- Dark Chocolate Lovers: Use dark cocoa powder or stir in dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
- Healthier Option: Replace some of the sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
- TOPPINGS AND GARNISHES:
- Ice Cream Delight: Top the warm mug cake with a scoop of your favorite ice cream.
- Whipped Cream Bliss: Dollop some whipped cream on top and sprinkle with chocolate shavings.