Mug Cake

Mug cake is a quick and cozy single-serving dessert that’s perfect for busy evenings or late-night cravings. Soft, moist, and ready in minutes, it satisfies your sweet tooth without baking an entire cake. I like to mix the ingredients directly in the mug for simplicity and minimal cleanup. Ideal for small households, instant treats, or a cozy solo dessert, this recipe brings comfort in just a few minutes.

a single mug cake on a white 1

Why You Will Love This Recipe

You’ll love this mug cake for its speed, ease, and flexibility. It’s a budget-friendly dessert that requires only basic pantry ingredients and a microwave. Perfect for weeknight cravings, last-minute desserts, or even a solo snack, it’s also adaptable—you can add chocolate chips, fruits, or spices to suit your taste. Quick, fuss-free, and mess-free, this mug cake is a Pinterest-worthy solution for anyone who wants a sweet treat without a full baking session.

a single mug cake on a white

Ingredients

Tip: Use all-purpose flour for a soft, tender texture that cooks evenly in the microwave.

  • 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1/8 tsp baking powder
  • Pinch of salt
  • 3 tbsp milk
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil or melted butter
  • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
  • Optional: 1 tbsp chocolate chips or berries
all the ingredients of mug cake recipe

Instructions

Step 1: Preparation
In a microwave-safe mug, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir gently with a spoon to ensure even distribution. This will help your mug cake rise evenly and avoid lumps for a smooth texture.

Step 2: Main Cooking Process
Add milk, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, scraping the sides of the mug to incorporate all flour. The batter should be thick but pourable, with a slightly glossy texture.

Step 3: Combining Ingredients
Fold in chocolate chips or berries if using, distributing evenly. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and tender. The batter should remain slightly lumpy, not completely smooth.

Step 4: Finishing & Final Simmer
Microwave on high for 60–90 seconds, watching carefully. The top should look set but slightly moist. Let the mug cake rest for a minute before eating—it will finish cooking from residual heat.

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Days

This mug cake takes less than five minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for instant dessert cravings. No oven or complicated equipment is needed, and cleanup is minimal. It’s perfect for last-minute treats, solo snacking, or a quick indulgence during a busy day.

Tips & Tricks

  • Even Mixing: Stir gently to avoid overmixing, which can make the cake dense.
  • Microwave Variations: Microwaves vary; adjust time slightly to avoid overcooking or dry edges.
  • Add-ins: Small chocolate chips or berries work best; larger pieces may sink to the bottom.
  • Mug Size: Use a standard 8 oz mug to prevent overflow and ensure even cooking.

Variations

  • Chocolate Mug Cake: Add 1 tbsp cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a rich chocolate version.
  • Fruit Mug Cake: Fold in chopped strawberries or blueberries for a fresh, fruity twist.
  • Spiced Mug Cake: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance warmth and flavor.
  • Peanut Butter Twist: Swirl 1 tsp peanut butter into the batter before microwaving for a creamy surprise.

Serving Suggestions

  • Solo Dessert: Serve straight in the mug with a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
  • Cozy Snack: Top with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
  • Breakfast Treat: Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a quick morning delight.
  • Mini Party: Serve multiple mugs side by side for a fun, customizable dessert display.

Storage Instructions

  • Fridge Storage: Best eaten immediately; leftover batter should be refrigerated for up to 24 hours.
  • Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 15–20 seconds if slightly cooled.
  • Freezing: Not recommended; texture may change after freezing.
  • Make-ahead Tips: Mix dry ingredients in a jar ahead of time, add wet ingredients when ready to cook.

Recipe Timing

  • Prep Time: 2 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1–2 minutes
  • Rest Time: 1 minute
  • Total Time: 4–5 minutes

Nutrition Information (Approximate)

Calories: 250–300 per mug
Protein: 4–5g
Key nutrients: carbohydrates for quick energy, small amount of fat from oil or butter
Values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients or portion size.

FAQs

Mix dry ingredients in advance; add wet ingredients just before microwaving.

Overmixing or microwaving too long can cause a heavy texture.

Yes, any milk works for this recipe.

The cake may be slightly undercooked; let it rest for a minute to finish setting.

Best eaten immediately; texture changes if stored too long.

Conclusion

This mug cake is a quick, cozy, and customizable dessert perfect for solo indulgence or last-minute cravings. With minimal ingredients and a few minutes in the microwave, you can enjoy a soft, fluffy cake anytime. Experiment with flavors, mix-ins, or toppings to make it your own. Whether it’s a late-night treat or a quick sweet break, this mug cake is easy, comforting, and always satisfying.

Mug Cake
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Mug Cake

Recipe by Edan SalamonCourse: Cake Recipes
Servings

1

servings
Prep time

2

minutes
Cooking time

2

minutes
Calories

300

kcal

A quick and cozy single-serving mug cake that’s soft, fluffy, and ready in minutes. Perfect for busy evenings or a late-night dessert.

Ingredients

  • 4 tbsp all-purpose flour

  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar

  • 1/8 tsp baking powder

  • Pinch of salt

  • 3 tbsp milk

  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil or melted butter

  • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract

  • Optional: 1 tbsp chocolate chips or berries

Directions

  • Mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a mug.
  • Add milk, oil, and vanilla; stir until just combined.
  • Fold in chocolate chips or berries if using.
  • Microwave 60–90 seconds, let rest for 1 minute, and enjoy.

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