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Chocolate Mug Cake

Updated on 7 min read

Quick Description:

This Chocolate Mug Cake is the ultimate single-serving dessert for chocolate lovers. It’s the perfect treat when you’re craving something warm, gooey, and chocolaty in minutes. Made with simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, it’s cooked in the microwave and ready to enjoy in under 5 minutes. The cake is soft and moist, with a rich chocolate flavor that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you want a quick snack or a late-night indulgence, this mug cake is the answer.

Servings & Timing:

  • Servings: 1
  • Prep Time: 2 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1-2 minutes (microwave)
  • Total Time: 3-4 minutes

Ingredients List:

  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for the base of the cake)
  • 2 tablespoons cocoa powder (unsweetened)
  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar (for sweetness)
  • 1/8 teaspoon baking powder (to help the cake rise)
  • Pinch of salt (to balance the sweetness)
  • 3 tablespoons milk (whole or any dairy-free option like almond milk)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or melted butter)
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (for flavor)
  • 2 tablespoons chocolate chips (optional, for extra chocolatey goodness)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Mug

  1. Choose a microwave-safe mug: Select a large microwave-safe mug (at least 12 oz) to make the mug cake. This will give the cake room to rise without spilling over. Lightly grease the inside of the mug with a bit of butter or non-stick spray if you prefer an easy cleanup.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

  1. Combine dry ingredients: In the mug, whisk together the following dry ingredients:
    • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
    • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
    • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
    • 1/8 teaspoon baking powder
    • Pinch of salt
    Stir them until they are well combined, and there are no lumps.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

  1. Add wet ingredients: To the mug with the dry ingredients, add:
    • 3 tablespoons milk (use any type you prefer)
    • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or melted butter)
    • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
  2. Mix well: Stir everything together with a spoon or fork until the batter is smooth and there are no dry pockets. The consistency should be similar to pancake batter.

Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips (Optional)

  1. Add chocolate chips: Stir in 2 tablespoons chocolate chips if you want an extra dose of chocolatey goodness in your mug cake. They will melt into the cake, adding gooey chocolate pockets.

Step 5: Microwave the Cake

  1. Microwave the cake: Place the mug in the microwave and cook on high for 1 minute. Check the cake to see if it’s done. The cake should rise and firm up, but still be slightly soft in the center. If the center is still wet or the cake isn’t fully set, microwave it for another 15-30 seconds. Note: Microwave times can vary depending on the wattage of your microwave, so keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking.

Step 6: Let It Cool Slightly

  1. Cool briefly: After the cake is done, let it sit in the microwave for 30 seconds to allow it to firm up slightly. This ensures the texture will be just right—soft but not gooey.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Serve: Once the cake has cooled down a bit, it’s ready to eat! You can enjoy it straight from the mug or top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of whipped cream, or an extra sprinkle of chocolate chips.

Additional Notes:

  • Cake Texture: The texture of this chocolate mug cake should be soft and moist, almost like a molten cake. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can microwave it for a few extra seconds, but be careful not to overcook it, as it could become dry.
  • Flavor Options: If you prefer a more decadent cake, try substituting 1 tablespoon peanut butter for some of the oil or adding 1 tablespoon of Nutella to the batter for a rich, hazelnut flavor.
  • Vegan Option: For a vegan version, use non-dairy milk (like almond or soy milk) and vegetable oil or melted coconut oil instead of butter. Choose dairy-free chocolate chips if desired.
  • Gluten-Free Option: To make this cake gluten-free, substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour. Be sure that the baking powder is also gluten-free.

Dietary Information (per mug cake):

  • Calories: 350-400 calories
  • Protein: 5g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 24g
  • Sodium: 150mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient substitutions, such as using dairy-free options or adding extra toppings.

Flavor Tips & Variations:

Flavor Enhancers:

  • Coffee Flavor: Add 1/2 teaspoon instant coffee or espresso powder to the dry ingredients for a mocha-flavored mug cake. The coffee will enhance the chocolate flavor without being overpowering.
  • Cinnamon: Sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon into the dry ingredients for a cozy, spiced touch.

Creative Variations:

  • S’mores Mug Cake: Add mini marshmallows to the top of the cake after microwaving and microwave for another 15 seconds to melt them. Top with graham cracker crumbs for a s’mores twist.
  • Mint Chocolate Mug Cake: Add 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract to the wet ingredients for a minty chocolate mug cake.
  • Peanut Butter Mug Cake: Stir 1 tablespoon peanut butter into the batter before microwaving for a rich peanut butter flavor.

Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions:

Serve with Ice Cream:

  • Serve this chocolate mug cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. The contrast between the warm cake and the cold ice cream is irresistible.

Top with Whipped Cream:

  • For a lighter option, top the cake with freshly whipped cream or a dollop of whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free option.

Serve with Fruit:

  • Add fresh berries or sliced bananas on top of the cake for a fruity, refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate flavor.

Storage & Make-Ahead:

  • Storage: Mug cakes are best enjoyed immediately after baking, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. Reheat in the microwave for 20-30 seconds before eating.
  • Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the dry ingredients ahead of time by mixing them together and storing them in a jar. When you’re ready to make the mug cake, just add the wet ingredients and microwave.

FAQs:

  • Can I double the recipe for two servings?
    • It’s best to make each mug cake individually. Doubling the recipe may cause the batter to overflow or cook unevenly in the microwave.
  • Can I use a different kind of flour?
    • Yes! You can substitute almond flour or coconut flour for a gluten-free version. Keep in mind that these flours may alter the texture slightly, and you may need to adjust the liquid amounts.
  • How can I make this cake less sweet?
    • You can reduce the sugar to 2 tablespoons or substitute it with a sweetener like stevia or monk fruit for a lower-sugar version.

Optional Personal Story:

I first stumbled upon this Chocolate Mug Cake recipe when I needed a quick dessert one night, and my chocolate cravings were off the charts. With just a few pantry staples, I whipped it up in minutes, and it completely satisfied my sweet tooth. It quickly became a staple in my kitchen for those nights when I needed something warm and comforting but didn’t want to spend much time baking. Over time, I’ve made countless variations, adding everything from peanut butter to marshmallows, and each time, it’s been a hit!

Call-to-Action:

Ready for your own Chocolate Mug Cake? Grab your ingredients, and let’s get baking! Don’t forget to share your creations on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see how yours turn out!

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