Microwave Mug Cake Easy

Featured in: Sweet Treat Fix

This quick and easy single-serve mug cake comes together using everyday pantry ingredients like flour, sugar, and milk. Simply mix the dry and wet components directly in a microwave-safe mug, then cook for about a minute until risen and set. Optional cocoa powder adds a chocolate twist. Customize with add-ins such as chocolate chips or berries for extra flavor. Perfect for a speedy dessert or snack when time is limited.

Updated on Wed, 19 Nov 2025 12:19:00 GMT
Fluffy microwave mug cake, ready to eat in a mug, perfect for a quick & delightful dessert. Pin It
Fluffy microwave mug cake, ready to eat in a mug, perfect for a quick & delightful dessert. | fordish.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 discovered microwave mug cakes during college when I craved something sweet but didn&t want to bake an entire cake. It quickly became my go-to treat after late-night study sessions.

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

Combine 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 enjoy:
Let cool for 1–2 minutes before enjoying directly from the mug.
A warm, single-serving microwave mug cake, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Pin It
A warm, single-serving microwave mug cake, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. | fordish.com

My little sister loves making this mug cake after dinner. It&s become a fun family ritual to see whose cake rises the tallest.

Required Tools

All you need for this recipe is a microwave-safe mug (10 oz/300 ml or larger) and a fork or small whisk.

Allergen Information

This mug cake contains wheat (gluten) and may contain dairy. If substituting with plant-based milk, check ingredient labels for allergens.

Nutritional Information

Each serving provides 230 calories, 7 g total fat, 39 g carbohydrates, and 4 g protein.

Deep and rich chocolate microwave mug cake, cooked to perfection ready in under 5 minutes. Pin It
Deep and rich chocolate microwave mug cake, cooked to perfection ready in under 5 minutes. | fordish.com

Enjoy your fresh mug cake straight from the mug. Share and customize for endless quick treats!

Recipe FAQs

Can I substitute plant-based milk in this mug cake?

Yes, plant-based milks like almond or oat work well and maintain a moist texture.

How long should I microwave the mug cake?

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

Can I add mix-ins to enhance the flavor?

Add chocolate chips, berries, or nut butter before microwaving to create extra layers of flavor.

What size mug is recommended?

Use a microwave-safe mug with a capacity of at least 10 oz (300 ml) to avoid overflow.

Is it possible to make a vanilla version?

Omit the cocoa powder and add an extra half tablespoon of flour to create a vanilla variation.

Microwave Mug Cake Easy

Fast single-serve mug cake using basic ingredients, ready in minutes with a microwave.

Prep Time
3 minutes
Time to Cook
1 minutes
Overall Time
4 minutes
Recipe by Fordish Mia Harper


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine American

Result 1 Portion Size

Dietary Details Vegetarian Option

Ingredient List

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

Directions

Step 01

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

Step 02

Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Stir thoroughly with a fork until the mixture is smooth and no dry flour pockets remain.

Step 03

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

Step 04

Cooling and Serving: Allow the cake to cool in the mug for 1 to 2 minutes before enjoying.

Tools Needed

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

Allergy Details

Review each ingredient for allergens. Ask your doctor if you’re unsure.
  • Contains wheat (gluten). May contain dairy depending on milk choice.

Nutrition Details (each serving)

Values provided for reference. Consult your medical provider with questions.
  • Energy Value: 230
  • Lipids: 7 g
  • Carbohydrates: 39 g
  • Proteins: 4 g