Microwave Mug Cake

Featured in: Cozy Baking Ideas

This easy single-serve cake is prepared in a microwave-safe mug using simple pantry ingredients like flour, sugar, and milk. Mix dry and wet components directly in the mug, microwave for about a minute, then allow it to cool briefly before enjoying. Optional cocoa powder adds a chocolate twist. Variations include adding berries or a dollop of nut butter for flavor. Perfect for a quick, satisfying treat when time is short and cravings strike.

Updated on Wed, 19 Nov 2025 15:24:00 GMT
Warm, chocolatey Microwave Mug Cake, freshly baked, ready to be enjoyed as a quick dessert. Save
Warm, chocolatey Microwave Mug Cake, freshly baked, ready to be enjoyed as a quick dessert. | birchplate.com

A super-easy, single-serving cake made in minutes with everyday pantry staples. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack, using just your microwave.

When I first tried this microwave mug cake, I was amazed at how quickly it satisfied my sweet cravings. It's perfect for those late-night snack moments or when guests drop by unexpectedly.

Ingredients

  • All-purpose flour: 4 tbsp
  • Granulated sugar: 2 tbsp
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder (optional): 1 tbsp, 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

Instructions

Mix 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.
Cool and Serve:
Let cool for 1–2 minutes before enjoying directly from the mug.
A fluffy, single-serving Microwave Mug Cake, perfectly cooked and topped with a scoop of ice cream. Save
A fluffy, single-serving Microwave Mug Cake, perfectly cooked and topped with a scoop of ice cream. | birchplate.com

My family loves personalizing their own mug cakes with their favorite mix-ins, and it's always a fun treat at after-school time.

Required Tools

All you need is a microwave-safe mug (minimum 10 oz/300 ml), a fork or small whisk, and your microwave.

Allergen Information

Contains wheat (gluten) and may contain dairy (milk). If substituting with plant-based milk, ensure all ingredients meet your allergen needs.

Nutritional Information

Per serving: 230 calories, 7 g fat, 39 g carbohydrates, 4 g protein.

Delicious and easy, this Microwave Mug Cake is steaming hot, inviting you for a tasty treat. Save
Delicious and easy, this Microwave Mug Cake is steaming hot, inviting you for a tasty treat. | birchplate.com

Enjoy your mug cake straight from the mug while it's still warm, and don't forget to experiment with fun toppings.

Recipe Questions & Answers

What type of mug is best for this dessert?

A microwave-safe mug with a minimum capacity of 10 ounces (300 ml) works best to allow the cake to rise without overflowing.

Can I use plant-based milk instead of dairy?

Yes, plant-based milks like almond or oat milk can be substituted without affecting the texture significantly.

How do I make a chocolate-flavored version?

Add 1 tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a rich chocolate variation.

Can I add mix-ins or toppings?

Yes, try folding in chocolate chips, berries, or a spoonful of nut butter before microwaving. Serve with ice cream or whipped cream if desired.

How can I avoid overcooking the cake?

Microwave cooking times vary; start with 60 seconds and add increments of 5 seconds until the cake is set in the center but still moist.

Is this suitable for a vegetarian diet?

Yes, this dish is vegetarian-friendly using common pantry ingredients.

Microwave Mug Cake

A fast, single-serving mug dessert made with common ingredients and cooked in minutes.

Prep Duration
3 minutes
Time to Cook
1 minutes
Overall Time
4 minutes
Created by Elena Hart


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Type American

Servings produced 1 Serving Size

Diet Details Vegetarian-Friendly

What You'll Need

Dry ingredients

01 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
02 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
03 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder (optional)
04 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
05 Pinch of salt

Wet ingredients

01 3 tablespoons milk (dairy or plant-based)
02 1 tablespoon neutral oil (e.g., vegetable or canola)
03 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 01

Combine dry ingredients: In a microwave-safe mug of at least 10 ounces, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder if using, baking powder, and salt.

Step 02

Incorporate wet ingredients: Add milk, oil, and vanilla extract into the mug and mix well with a fork until smooth and free of dry spots.

Step 03

Microwave cooking: Cook on high for 60 to 75 seconds until the cake has risen and the center is set.

Step 04

Cool and serve: Allow to cool for 1 to 2 minutes before enjoying directly from the mug.

Tools Needed

  • Microwave-safe mug (10 oz or larger)
  • Fork or small whisk
  • Microwave

Allergy Details

Review all components to spot allergies and check with a doctor if you're unsure.
  • Contains wheat (gluten) and may contain dairy.

Nutrition Breakdown (each serving)

Nutritional info is for reference. Please consult your doctor for specifics.
  • Energy (Calories): 230
  • Fats: 7 g
  • Carbohydrates: 39 g
  • Proteins: 4 g