Basic Mug Cake
We’ve all been there: craving something sweet but not feeling up to making a whole cake.
The solution?
A basic mug cake recipe!
Imagine a delicious cocoa mug cake that’s soft and gooey. You can make it really quickly in a mug. It’s great when you want something sweet and fast.

Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or craving chocolate, this easy mug cake recipe is perfect. It uses simple ingredients you probably already have!
But wait – there’s more!
This simple mug cake isn’t just quick and easy; it’s also customizable.
Want to add a scoop of ice cream? Go ahead! Fancy a drizzle of caramel or a sprinkling of sea salt? Why not!
The options are endless – there are many different ways to make this cake. Once you know how to make the basic recipe, you can try many different versions.
What is a mug cake?
A mug cake is a small cake that you make in a mug using a microwave. It’s a quick and easy snack or dessert for one person. You mix the ingredients together in the mug and cook it in the microwave for a few minutes. Mug cakes are usually made with flour, sugar, eggs, and flavorings like vanilla or chocolate. You can add things like nuts, fruit, or chocolate chips to make it taste different.
So, let’s learn how to make this yummy microwave dessert in just 7 minutes.
Basic Mug Cake Recipe

Basic Mug Cake
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup self-rising flour
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
- Put the butter, sugar, milk, and egg in a bowl. Mix them together until they’re all mixed up and look smooth.
- Put the flour, cocoa powder, and salt in the bowl. Mix it all together until it’s combined.
- Divide the mixture into 2 mugs. Make sure the mugs are not more than half full.
- Microwave each cake for a minute and a half to two and a half minutes on high, or until the top is cooked but still a bit soft. Then, enjoy!
Pro Tips
If you want the cake to be soft in the middle, microwave it for a shorter time. If you want it to be more cooked, microwave it for the full two and a half minutes. Either way, you’ll have a yummy cake ready quickly!
Every microwave is a little different, so you’ll want to keep an eye on your cakes. The top should look cooked but still be slightly soft to the touch.
And that’s it!
In just four simple steps, you’ve made a rich, fudgy chocolate mug cake that’s perfect for satisfying those sweet cravings.
Why Microwave Mug Cakes are a Game-Changer
Now, let me explain why I love this recipe so much. Mug cakes are a dessert dream come true for so many reasons:
Quick and Easy: You can make this mug cake in under 7 minutes. No waiting around for the oven to preheat or for the cake to cool – it’s instant gratification.
Minimal Cleanup: Since you’re mixing everything in one bowl and cooking it in a mug, there’s barely any mess to deal with. Just wash the bowl, the spoon, and your mug. That’s it!
Portion Control: Unlike baking a whole cake, which can leave you with tempting leftovers, this recipe is perfect for a single serving. You can enjoy the cake without feeling bad about eating too much.
Customizable: Want to add your own twist to the recipe? You can! Toss in some chocolate chips for an extra melty center, or stir in a spoonful of Nutella for added richness. Feeling fancy? Top your cake with whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or even a scoop of ice cream.
Easy Mug Cake Variations to Try
Once you know how to make the basic mug cake, you can try making different versions.
Here are a few ideas:
- Peanut butter swirl, add a spoonful of peanut butter to the batter before microwaving. Gently swirl it around for a delicious surprise.
- Mint Chocolate: Add a drop or two of mint extract to your batter for a refreshing twist. Perfect for those who love the classic combination of chocolate and mint.
- S’mores Mug Cake: Crush up some graham crackers and sprinkle them on top of your cake before cooking. Once it’s out of the microwave, add some mini marshmallows. Use a torch or microwave for a few seconds to melt them.
- Mocha Mug Cake: Add a teaspoon of instant coffee to the batter for a delicious chocolate and coffee flavor. This is perfect for people who love coffee!
You can change this mug cake to make it taste the way you like it. If you want it sweeter, add more sugar. If you want it more moist, cook it for a shorter time.
You can also add a few drops of vanilla, coconut, orange, or other flavors to make the cake taste better.
A Little Science Behind Mug Cakes
Ever wondered how a cake can cook so fast in the microwave? It’s because microwaves use special energy to heat the food from the inside out. The water in the cake batter gets hot, which makes the cake rise.
Because microwaves cook food very quickly, they don’t make the cake brown or caramelize like an oven does. This is why the cake is so soft and gooey. Microwaving makes the cake really soft and delicious.
Cocoa / Chocolate Mug Cake – Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make a basic mug cake?
You mix together the butter, sugar, milk, and egg until very smooth. Then you add the flour, and mix just until well blended and smooth. Finally, microwave for 1-2 minutes on high.
Can I make a mug cake without eggs?
Yes, many mug cake recipes, especially basic ones, don’t require eggs.
What size mug should I use for a mug cake?
Use a standard 12-oz mug to prevent overflow while baking.
How long do I microwave a mug cake?
Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, depending on your microwave’s power.
Why is my mug cake hard to eat? Is it too dry or too chewy?
If you cook the mug cake too long, it can be hard to eat. It might be dry or chewy. Make sure to follow the recipe and check if it’s done.
Can I add toppings to my mug cake?
Yes! Try adding chocolate chips, nuts, whipped cream, or a scoop of ice cream after it’s cooked.
Can I make a mug cake without a microwave?
Yes, you can bake it in an oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 10-15 minutes, but the microwave is much faster.
Is a mug cake safe to eat immediately?
Yes, but be cautious as the cake and mug will be hot right after microwaving.
Final Thoughts
In short, this basic mug cake is more than a quick dessert – it’s a lifesaver for those days when you need something sweet right now. It’s simple, delicious, and customizable.
Above all, it’s a recipe you can keep in your back pocket for any time the craving strikes.
To be honest, I think everyone should know how to make a mug cake. This one is delicious, chocolatey, easy to make, and doesn’t make much mess. Try it next time you want a quick dessert. You’ll love it!
So next time you need a dessert in a hurry, give this recipe a try. You won’t regret it!
Happy baking!
Basic Mug Cake - Simple Yummy Recipes
Satisfy your sweet craving in just 7 minutes with this basic mug cake recipe. Made with simple ingredients you already have!
Type: dessert
Cuisine: American
Keywords: cocoa mug cake, mug cake recipe, microwave mug cake, easy mug cake
Recipe Yield: 2 servings
Preparation Time: PT2M
Cooking Time: PT5M
Total Time: PT7M
Recipe Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup self-rising flour
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- A pinch of salt
Recipe Instructions: 1. Put the butter, sugar, milk, and egg in a bowl. Mix them together until they’re all mixed up and look smooth. 2. Put the flour, cocoa powder, and salt in the bowl. Mix it all together until it’s combined. 3. Divide the mixture into 2 mugs. Make sure the mugs are not more than half full. 4. Microwave each cake for a minute and a half to two and a half minutes on high, or until the top is cooked but still a bit soft. Then, enjoy!
5

One Comment
Comments are closed.