Chocolate Mug Cake is a quick and easy dessert that delivers all the rich, fudgy flavor of a classic chocolate cake in a single serving, made right in your microwave. With simple pantry ingredients and just a few minutes of cooking, you can satisfy your chocolate cravings instantly without the fuss of baking a whole cake.
You’ll love this mug cake because it’s moist, fluffy, and perfectly chocolatey, thanks to the combination of cocoa powder and butter. The convenience of single-serving size makes it ideal for a late-night treat, a quick snack, or when you want a small dessert portion. Plus, it’s so straightforward that anyone can make it in minutes with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup white sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- ⅛ teaspoon baking soda
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 2 tablespoons canola oil
- 1 tablespoon water
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Gather all the ingredients and have a microwave-safe mug ready.
- In the mug, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir well to break up any lumps and create an even mixture.
- Add the milk, canola oil, water, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Stir until smooth and combined, scraping the bottom to incorporate all ingredients.
- Microwave the mug cake on high for about 1 minute 45 seconds. Microwave power may vary, so start checking at around 1 minute 30 seconds. The cake is done when it is set in the middle and a toothpick comes out clean or with moist crumbs.
- Allow the mug cake to cool slightly it will continue to cook a bit as it cools. Enjoy directly from the mug or slide it out onto a plate.
My Best Tips for Success
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Use a large microwave-safe mug to prevent overflow.
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Mix ingredients thoroughly to avoid dry lumps.
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Adjust cooking time according to your microwave’s wattage.
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Don’t overcook to keep the cake moist and fluffy.
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Top with whipped cream, chocolate chips, or ice cream for extra indulgence.
Delicious Variations to Try
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Add a tablespoon of peanut butter or Nutella in the center before microwaving.
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Stir in mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts for texture.
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Sprinkle cinnamon or espresso powder for added depth.
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Use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk for a dairy-free version.
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Drizzle with chocolate sauce or caramel for extra sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size mug should I use?
Use a mug at least 10-12 ounces to allow the cake to rise without spilling.
Can I make this in the oven?
Yes, bake in a small ramekin at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
How do I know when it’s done?
The surface should be set and no longer wet; a toothpick will come out with moist crumbs.
Can I substitute the cocoa powder?
Dutch-process or natural cocoa powder both work; flavor intensity may vary.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Absolutely, it’s simple and quick for kids to help make.
Chocolate Mug Cake
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Quick, single-serve dessert delivering rich, fudgy chocolate cake flavor in minutes. Made entirely in the microwave with pantry staples, perfect for late-night cravings or easy snacks.
Ingredients
¼ cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
⅛ tsp baking soda
⅛ tsp salt
3 tbsp milk
2 tbsp canola oil
1 tbsp water
¼ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
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Prepare mug: Use a 10–12 oz microwave‑safe mug to allow room for rising.
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Combine dry ingredients: Add flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt to the mug. Mix well until no lumps remain.
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Add wet ingredients: Stir in milk, oil, water, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly, scraping the bottom until smooth.
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Microwave: Heat on high for 1 minute 45 seconds (check at 1 minute 30 seconds). The cake is ready when risen and the center is set.
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Cool & serve: Allow to cool 1–2 minutes before eating it continues cooking as it sits. Enjoy directly from the mug or invert onto a plate.
Notes
Mix batter fully for even texture.
Adjust cook time based on microwave power (1:30–2:00).
Do not overcook to keep moistness.
Top with whipped cream, chocolate chips or ice cream.
Use only microwave-safe mugs; avoid metal utensils.
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Quick Recipes
- Method: Microwave
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mug cake
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 44 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 59 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
Keywords: chocolate mug cake, quick single serve dessert, easy microwave cake, fudgy mug cake, moist chocolate cake recipe
