Microwave Mug Cake Quick

Featured in: Simple Pleasures

This quick single-serve cake is made directly in a microwave-safe mug using basic pantry ingredients. Simply mix flour, sugar, cocoa powder (optional), baking powder, salt, milk, oil, and vanilla in the mug. Microwave for about a minute until the cake rises and sets. Cool briefly, then enjoy a warm, effortless dessert or snack. Variations like chocolate chips or berries can add extra flavor. Ideal for satisfying sweet cravings with minimal prep and cleanup.

Updated on Wed, 19 Nov 2025 09:51:00 GMT
Fluffy, hot Microwave Mug Cake topped with whipped cream, ready for a sweet treat. Save
Fluffy, hot Microwave Mug Cake topped with whipped cream, ready for a sweet treat. | oventhyme.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.

The first time I tried a mug cake, I couldn&t believe how something so delicious could come together so fast in the microwave. It&s my go-to treat when I want something sweet but don&t want a big mess to clean up.

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 (e.g., vegetable or canola)
  • Vanilla extract: 1/4 tsp

Instructions

Mix dry ingredients:
In a microwave-safe mug (minimum 10 oz 300 ml), whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder (if using), baking powder, and salt.
Add wet ingredients:
Add milk, oil, and vanilla extract to mug. Mix thoroughly with a fork until smooth and no dry pockets remain.
Microwave:
Microwave on high for 60 to 75 seconds until cake has risen and is set in the center.
Cool and enjoy:
Let cake cool for 1 to 2 minutes before enjoying directly from the mug.
A single-serving, rich chocolate Microwave Mug Cake, perfectly cooked in the microwave. Save
A single-serving, rich chocolate Microwave Mug Cake, perfectly cooked in the microwave. | oventhyme.com

My kids love customizing their mug cakes with chocolate chips or berries, making it a fun family dessert night activity.

Customizations

Add chocolate chips, berries, or a spoonful of nut butter before microwaving for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a scoop of ice cream, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar for a special touch.

Required Tools

Use a microwave-safe mug (10 oz 300 ml or larger) and a fork or small whisk to prepare your cake.

Warm and decadent, imagine a just-baked Microwave Mug Cake, ideal for a quick dessert. Save
Warm and decadent, imagine a just-baked Microwave Mug Cake, ideal for a quick dessert. | oventhyme.com

With just a few pantry staples and your microwave, you can enjoy a fresh mug cake any time you crave something sweet!

Microwave Mug Cake Quick

Quick and easy single-serve cake made with pantry staples in under 5 minutes using a microwave.

Prep duration
3 min
Kitchen time
1 min
Complete duration
4 min
Created by Grace Mitchell


Skill level Easy

Heritage American

Output 1 Portions

Dietary requirements Meat-free

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 (vegetable or canola)
03 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method

Phase 01

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a microwave-safe mug of at least 10 ounces, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder if using, baking powder, and salt until evenly dispersed.

Phase 02

Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Add the milk, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture and stir thoroughly with a fork until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.

Phase 03

Microwave Cooking: Microwave the mug on high power for 60 to 75 seconds, or until the cake has risen and the center is set.

Phase 04

Cooling and Serving: Allow the cake to cool for 1 to 2 minutes before consuming directly from the mug.

Kitchen tools needed

  • Microwave-safe mug (minimum 10 ounces)
  • Fork or small whisk
  • Microwave oven

Allergy notes

Always review ingredients for potential allergens and seek professional medical advice when uncertain.
  • Contains gluten due to wheat flour.
  • May contain dairy depending on milk choice.

Nutrition breakdown (per portion)

Values shown are estimates only - consult healthcare providers for specific advice.
  • Energy: 230
  • Fats: 7 g
  • Carbohydrates: 39 g
  • Proteins: 4 g