Microwave Mug Cake

Featured in: Comfort Baking

This effortless single-serving dessert combines flour, sugar, and optional cocoa powder, mixed smoothly with milk, oil, and vanilla. Prepared directly in a microwave-safe mug, it cooks in about one minute to yield a soft, fluffy cake. Adaptable with add-ins like chocolate chips or berries, it's ideal for quick indulgence without fuss or lengthy prep. Let it cool briefly before savoring straight from the mug, perfect for satisfying cravings fast.

Updated on Wed, 19 Nov 2025 11:38:00 GMT
Fluffy microwave mug cake, ready to eat -- a quick, warm dessert from just your microwave. Save
Fluffy microwave mug cake, ready to eat -- a quick, warm dessert from just your microwave. | butterhearth.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.

I first made this when I craved something sweet but didn&t want a big batch. It&s my favorite late-night treat!

Ingredients

  • All-purpose flour: 4 tbsp
  • Granulated sugar: 2 tbsp
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder (optional, for chocolate version): 1 tbsp
  • Baking powder: 1/4 tsp
  • Salt: Pinch
  • Milk (dairy or plant-based): 3 tbsp
  • Neutral oil (e.g. vegetable or canola): 1 tbsp
  • 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 to 75 seconds, until the cake has risen and is set in the center.
Cool and serve:
Let cool for 1 to 2 minutes before enjoying directly from the mug.
A close-up of a chocolate microwave mug cake, served warm in its wide ceramic mug. Save
A close-up of a chocolate microwave mug cake, served warm in its wide ceramic mug. | butterhearth.com

My kids love mixing their own mug cakes, especially choosing different toppings for a fun family dessert night.

Required Tools

Microwave-safe mug (10 oz (300 ml) or larger), fork or small whisk, microwave

Allergen Information

Contains wheat (gluten), may contain dairy (milk). Check plant-based milks and other ingredients for allergens if substituting.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 230, Total Fat: 7 g, Carbohydrates: 39 g, Protein: 4 g (per serving)

Enjoy a quick bite with this easy microwave mug cake, perfect for a fast treat. Save
Enjoy a quick bite with this easy microwave mug cake, perfect for a fast treat. | butterhearth.com

This mug cake is a lifesaver for last-minute dessert cravings. Try it with your favorite toppings for a delicious twist!

Recipe Questions

What type of mug is best for cooking this dessert?

Use a microwave-safe mug that holds at least 10 ounces to ensure even cooking without overflow or spills.

Can I substitute plant-based milk for dairy milk?

Yes, plant-based milks like almond or oat work well and accommodate dietary preferences while maintaining texture.

How can I make a chocolate version of this dish?

Include unsweetened cocoa powder into the dry ingredients for a rich chocolate flavor, or add chocolate chips before cooking.

What is the ideal cooking time in the microwave?

Cook on high for 60 to 75 seconds, monitoring closely as microwave power varies; the dessert should rise and be set in the center.

Are there serving suggestions to enhance flavor?

Consider topping with whipped cream, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a scoop of ice cream for extra indulgence.

Can I prepare a vanilla-flavored version?

Simply omit the cocoa powder and add an extra half tablespoon of flour for a classic vanilla taste.

Microwave Mug Cake

Single-serving mug dessert crafted quickly with everyday ingredients and microwave convenience.

Prep duration
3 min
Time to cook
1 min
Complete duration
4 min
Created by Grace Mitchell


Skill Level Easy

Heritage American

Output 1 Portions

Dietary considerations Meat-Free

Components

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, such as vegetable or canola
03 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

Stage 01

Combine dry ingredients: In a microwave-safe mug (minimum 10 fl oz), whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder if using, baking powder, and salt until evenly mixed.

Stage 02

Incorporate wet ingredients: Add milk, oil, and vanilla extract to the mug and mix thoroughly with a fork until the batter is smooth and free of dry pockets.

Stage 03

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

Stage 04

Cooling and serving: Allow to cool for 1 to 2 minutes before eating directly from the mug.

Necessary tools

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

Allergy details

Review each component for potential allergens and consider consulting with a healthcare provider if you're unsure about certain ingredients.
  • Contains wheat (gluten) and may contain dairy

Nutritional information (per portion)

These values are estimates only and shouldn't replace professional medical guidance.
  • Energy Value: 230
  • Fats: 7 g
  • Carbohydrates: 39 g
  • Protein Content: 4 g