A chocolate mug cake is the ultimate single-serve dessert—quick, rich, and deeply satisfying. This easy-to-make cake is mixed and cooked right in a mug, using just a few simple ingredients and a microwave. Whether you’re looking for a late-night indulgence, a small-batch treat, or a fuss-free dessert, this recipe delivers a moist, chocolatey cake in minutes with minimal cleanup.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chocolate mug cake is perfect for when cravings strike, and you want something homemade without the wait or mess of baking a full cake.
- Ready in under 5 minutes from start to finish
- Requires just one mug and a few pantry ingredients
- Rich, fudgy texture with deep chocolate flavor
- Easily customizable with mix-ins or toppings
- No oven or fancy equipment needed
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- All-purpose flour
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- Granulated sugar
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Milk (any kind, including non-dairy)
- Vegetable oil (or melted butter)
- Vanilla extract
- Chocolate chips (optional, for extra gooeyness)
Optional toppings:
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate sauce
- Ice cream
- Shaved chocolate or chocolate chunks
Directions
- In a microwave-safe mug (roughly 12 to 14 oz capacity), combine flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly.
- Add milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips or small pieces of chocolate if desired.
- Microwave on high for 1 minute to 1 minute 15 seconds, depending on your microwave’s power. The cake should rise and look set on top.
- Let the cake rest for 1–2 minutes before serving.
- Top with whipped cream, chocolate sauce, or any garnish you prefer. Serve warm.
Servings and timing
Servings: 1
Prep Time: 2 minutes
Cook Time: 1 minute
Total Time: 3 minutes
Variations
- Nutella Mug Cake: Add a spoonful of Nutella in the center of the batter for a molten surprise.
- Vegan Chocolate Mug Cake: Use almond milk and coconut oil, and skip the chocolate chips or use dairy-free alternatives.
- Peanut Butter Chocolate: Swirl in a spoonful of peanut butter before cooking.
- Espresso Infused: Add ½ teaspoon of instant coffee granules to enhance the chocolate flavor.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute.
Storage/Reheating
This chocolate mug cake is best enjoyed fresh and warm straight from the microwave. However, if needed:
- Storage: Cover the mug with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 1 day.
- Reheating: Microwave for 15–20 seconds before serving. Do not overheat, as it may become dry.
- Freezing is not recommended due to the delicate texture of the cake.
FAQs
Can I use self-rising flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, but omit the baking powder and salt if using self-rising flour.
Why did my mug cake overflow?
Your mug may be too small. Use a mug that holds at least 12 ounces to avoid overflow while cooking.
Can I make this without a microwave?
Yes. You can bake it in an oven-safe ramekin at 350°F (175°C) for about 12–15 minutes.
What kind of cocoa powder should I use?
Use unsweetened cocoa powder for best results. Dutch-processed cocoa will give a deeper color and flavor.
How do I make the cake extra moist?
Adding a few chocolate chips or a small dollop of Nutella helps keep the center gooey and moist.
Can I double the recipe?
It’s best to make one mug cake at a time to ensure even cooking. Doubling may cause uneven results in the microwave.
Is it okay to use almond milk?
Yes, any non-dairy milk (like oat, soy, or almond) works well in this recipe.
Can I substitute butter for oil?
Yes, melted butter can be used for a richer flavor, but oil makes for a moister cake.
Why is my cake rubbery?
Overcooking in the microwave can make the texture rubbery. Microwave in short intervals and check for doneness early.
What are the best toppings for a mug cake?
Popular toppings include whipped cream, ice cream, chocolate drizzle, fresh berries, or a sprinkle of sea salt and shaved chocolate.
Conclusion
This chocolate mug cake is a lifesaver for dessert lovers seeking instant satisfaction. With minimal ingredients and prep, it delivers all the indulgence of a traditional cake in a fraction of the time. Whether you’re curling up for a cozy evening or hosting a last-minute gathering, this easy recipe is sure to hit the sweet spot—one mug at a time.
PrintChocolate Mug Cake
Craving something sweet and quick? This rich, gooey chocolate mug cake is your new go-to! Made in minutes using simple pantry ingredients, it’s the ultimate no-fuss treat when you’re short on time but big on chocolate cravings. Perfect for late-night indulgence, date-night dessert, or a cozy solo treat — all ready in one mug!
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 minute
- Total Time: 4 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Microwave
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
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1/4 cup all-purpose flour
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2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
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1/4 tsp baking powder
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2 tbsp sugar
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Pinch of salt
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1/4 cup milk
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2 tbsp vegetable oil or melted butter
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1/4 tsp vanilla extract
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2 tbsp chocolate chips (optional, but highly recommended)
Instructions
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In a microwave-safe mug, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
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Add milk, oil, and vanilla. Stir until smooth — no dry lumps!
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Fold in chocolate chips for melty, gooey goodness.
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Microwave on high for 60–75 seconds. It should rise and look set but still soft in the center.
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Let cool for 1–2 minutes before topping with whipped cream, chocolate sauce, or ice cream.
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Grab a spoon and enjoy your cozy chocolate mug cake!
Notes
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Microwave power varies — start with 60 seconds and add 10-second bursts if needed.
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For extra flavor, add a pinch of instant coffee or a spoon of Nutella in the center before microwaving.
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Best eaten warm, right out of the mug!