Craving something sweet but don’t want to bake an entire cake? This easy mug cake recipe is the ultimate solution. Made with simple pantry ingredients and cooked in the microwave, it delivers a warm, fluffy dessert in under 5 minutes—no oven, no mess, no stress.
Perfect for busy weeknights, late-night cravings, or when you just want a single serving treat, this recipe proves that homemade dessert can be incredibly quick and delicious.
Why This Mug Cake Recipe Works
Ready in minutes – From mixing to eating in about 5 minutes
Single serving – No leftovers, no waste
Minimal cleanup – One mug, one spoon
Totally customizable – Chocolate, vanilla, or add-ins
Whether you’re new to baking or just short on time, this mug cake recipe is almost impossible to mess up.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All ingredients are basic pantry staples:
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (optional for chocolate version)
¼ teaspoon baking powder
Pinch of salt
3 tablespoons milk
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or melted butter)
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
1–2 tablespoons chocolate chips (optional but recommended)
Step-by-Step: How to Make a Mug Cake
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a microwave-safe mug (at least 12 oz / 350 ml), add flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Stir well to remove any lumps.
Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients
Pour in the milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and fully combined.
Step 3: Add Toppings
Fold in chocolate chips or your favorite add-ins like peanut butter, nuts, or sprinkles.
Step 4: Microwave
Microwave on high for 60–90 seconds.
Start checking at 60 seconds—every microwave is different.
The cake should rise and look set on top but still slightly moist inside.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Mug Cake
Don’t overcook – Over-microwaving makes it dry
Use a large mug – Prevents overflow while cooking
Mix thoroughly – Dry pockets = floury bites
Let it rest – Wait 1 minute before eating for best texture
Easy Mug Cake Variations
Vanilla Mug Cake
Skip cocoa powder and add an extra tablespoon of flour.
Chocolate Peanut Butter
Add 1 tablespoon peanut butter to the center before cooking.
Lemon Mug Cake
Replace milk with lemon juice + milk mix and add lemon zest.
Funfetti Mug Cake
Add colorful sprinkles for a celebration-in-a-mug treat.
Serving Ideas
Top your mug cake with:
A scoop of vanilla ice cream
Whipped cream
Chocolate syrup or caramel drizzle
Fresh berries
Final Thoughts
This easy mug cake recipe is proof that dessert doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few ingredients and a microwave, you can enjoy a warm, homemade cake anytime the craving hits.