What do you do when the chocolate cravings hit, but you don't have time to bake? You make a chocolate mug cake. Mug cakes are simple cakes baked in the microwave. They're slightly larger than a cupcake but without the mess of frosting. The cook time is less than one minute, perfect for those late-night cravings. This dessert recipe is simple for home cooks or first-time bakers.
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Our easy mug cake recipe only has three ingredients. Of course, you can add in more ingredients if you want to jazz it up, but this yummy microwave mug cake will satisfy your sweet tooth. This easy recipe makes a perfect single serving, so no need to worry about sharing.
Sarah Abrams
While this isn't exactly a healthy recipe, you'll consume fewer carbohydrates than eating an entire slice of cake. Our chocolate mug cake recipe is even great for those who are gluten-free, as there is no all-purpose flour used.
The Simplest and Best Mug Cake Recipe
One of the best parts about this recipe is the ease and speed with which this cooks. The prep time is about one minute, making the total time only two minutes.
For supplies, you'll need one large microwave-safe mug, 1/4 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons cocoa powder, and 1 large egg.
Sarah Abrams
In your mug, combine the dry ingredients and stir until combined. Next, add in the egg and mix well.
Depending on your microwave, you'll want to cook for 40-60 seconds. I cooked it for 50 seconds and it was fully cooked, but a tad dry. It's all personal preference, but if you'd like a more under-baked, gooey cake, I'd suggest starting at 40 seconds.
Variations on Our Chocolate Mug Cake
The easiest way to change up the flavor and add some depth to this cake is to add fun toppings. Sprinkles or chocolate chips would add some great texture and fun colors to your cake. If you're a Reese lover, add a scoop of peanut butter for a chocolate-peanut butter dream. A dollop of Nutella would enhance the chocolate flavor and act as a frosting.
Whipped cream never hurt anything, so try adding a dollop on top of the mug cake. You could also serve this a la mode with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.
Remember, these sweet additions will add increase your cholesterol and carb intake. We think it's worth it for an occasional indulgence.
Vanilla Mug Cake Recipe
If you're simply not a chocolate fan, we've got you covered with a vanilla mug cake.
In a large mug, combine all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1/4 teaspoon baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Next, add in 3 tablespoons milk, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, and melted butter. Make sure to use unsalted butter for this recipe.
Stir until combined and microwave for 50-70 seconds. If you add sprinkles, this transforms from vanilla cake to funfetti cake!
Get the recipe here from Tastes Better From Scratch
If you follow a dairy-free meal plan, simply substitute the milk for almond milk or oat milk. There's no need for canola or vegetable oil, but you can substitute coconut oil for butter if you want a vegan-friendly dessert.
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Sarah Abrams is a writer living in Austin, Texas with her husband, 1-year old daughter and cat. She's loved cooking and trying local restaurants for as long as she can remember. She only got a Twitter account to stalk the burgeoning food truck scene in Los Angeles. She has every Ina Garten cookbook and is slowly working her way through those the recipes. When she isn't cooking or eating, she loves hiking around the city and being with her family.
3-Ingredient Mug Cake
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 2 Tbsp Cocoa powder
- 1 egg
Instructions
- In a large microwavable mug combine the dry ingredients and stir until combined. Next, add in the egg and mix well.
- Depending on your microwave, you'll want to cook for 40-60 seconds. If you like a chewy and melty, stick to a lower cook time.
