Save to Pinterest A super-easy, single-serving cake made in minutes with everyday pantry staples. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack, using just your microwave.
I first tried making a mug cake on a busy weekday evening when I needed a sweet treat fast. It instantly became my go-to dessert whenever I crave something homemade but quick.
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Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 4 tbsp
- Granulated sugar: 2 tbsp
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: 1 tbsp (optional, for chocolate version)
- Baking powder: 1/4 tsp
- Salt: Pinch
- Milk: 3 tbsp (dairy or plant-based)
- Neutral oil: 1 tbsp (vegetable or canola)
- Vanilla extract: 1/4 tsp
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Instructions
- Combine dry ingredients:
- In a microwave-safe mug (minimum 10 oz/300 ml), whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder (if using), baking powder, and salt.
- Add wet ingredients:
- Add the milk, oil, and vanilla extract to the mug. Mix thoroughly with a fork until smooth and no dry pockets remain.
- Microwave:
- Microwave on high for 60–75 seconds, until the cake has risen and is set in the center.
- Let cool:
- Let cool for 1–2 minutes before enjoying directly from the mug.
Save to Pinterest My family loves customizing their mug cake with chocolate chips, berries, or even a dollop of peanut butter. It's such a fun way to let everyone pick their favorite add-ins!
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Substitutions and Variations
Omit cocoa powder for a vanilla mug cake, and add an extra 1/2 tbsp flour. You can swap in plant-based milk for dairy milk and use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Serving Suggestions
Top the mug cake with ice cream, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra special treat.
Allergen & Nutrition Info
This recipe contains wheat and may contain dairy. Each serving has approximately 230 calories, 7 g total fat, 39 g carbohydrates, and 4 g protein.
Save to Pinterest 
This mug cake is the simplest way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Enjoy it warm straight from the mug for maximum comfort!
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use plant-based milk for this dessert?
Yes, you can substitute dairy milk with any plant-based milk like almond or soy milk without affecting the outcome.
- → How do I make a chocolate-flavored version?
Add unsweetened cocoa powder to the dry ingredients and optionally mix in chocolate chips before microwaving.
- → What size mug is recommended for cooking?
A microwave-safe mug of at least 10 oz (300 ml) is ideal to prevent overflow during cooking.
- → Can I add mix-ins like berries or nuts?
Yes, incorporating berries, nuts, or nut butter before microwaving can enhance flavor and texture.
- → How long should I microwave the mixture?
Microwave on high for 60 to 75 seconds until the dessert rises and is set in the center; times may vary with microwave power.
