Microwave Mug Cake

Featured in: Warm Baked Recipes

This single-serving microwave mug cake combines flour, sugar, cocoa powder (optional), milk, oil, and vanilla extract for a quick treat. Simply mix dry and wet ingredients in a microwave-safe mug, then cook on high for about a minute until set. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack with minimal prep and cooking time.

Adjust by leaving out cocoa for vanilla or adding mix-ins like chocolate chips or berries before microwaving. Ideal for satisfying cravings without much time or cleanup.

Updated on Wed, 19 Nov 2025 09:51:00 GMT
Fluffy microwave mug cake, ready in minutes, served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Pin It
Fluffy microwave mug cake, ready in minutes, served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. | juniperbite.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.

Whenever a late-night chocolate craving strikes, I whip up this microwave mug cake for instant comfort. It never fails to surprise friends and family with just how delicious and convenient it is.

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 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 & Serve:
Let cool for 1 to 2 minutes before enjoying directly from the mug.
A close-up of a perfectly cooked chocolate microwave mug cake, drizzled with sweet icing. Pin It
A close-up of a perfectly cooked chocolate microwave mug cake, drizzled with sweet icing. | juniperbite.com

This is one of the first recipes my kids learned to make on their own. We have a fun ritual of customizing our mug cakes with sprinkles or mini chocolate chips for movie nights.

Required Tools

Microwave-safe mug (minimum 10 oz/300 ml), fork or small whisk, and a microwave are all you need. No mixing bowls necessary!

Allergen Information

Contains wheat (gluten) and may contain dairy. Use plant-based milk for a vegan version and always check your ingredient labels for allergens.

Nutritional Information

Per serving: Calories 230, Total Fat 7 g, Carbohydrates 39 g, Protein 4 g.

Enjoy a quick treat: a simple microwave mug cake, soft and ready for a tasty dessert. Pin It
Enjoy a quick treat: a simple microwave mug cake, soft and ready for a tasty dessert. | juniperbite.com

No need to wait for dessert — this microwave mug cake is ready whenever you are! Enjoy warm, straight from the mug.

Questions About This Recipe

Can I make this without cocoa powder?

Yes, simply omit the cocoa powder and add an extra 1/2 tablespoon of flour for a vanilla-flavored cake.

What types of milk can I use?

Both dairy and plant-based milks work well, such as almond, soy, or oat milk, depending on dietary preferences.

How do I know when the cake is done?

The cake should rise and feel set in the center after microwaving for 60–75 seconds. Avoid overcooking to keep it moist.

Can I add toppings before microwaving?

You can mix in or sprinkle extras like chocolate chips, berries, or nut butter into the batter before cooking for extra flavor.

What size mug is recommended?

Use a microwave-safe mug with at least 10 oz (300 ml) capacity to allow room for mixing and rising during cooking.

Microwave Mug Cake

Fast, single-serving cake made with simple ingredients and cooked quickly in a microwave mug.

Prep Time
3 minutes
Cook Time
1 minutes
Total Duration
4 minutes
Juniper Bite Chloe Fischer

Dish Type Warm Baked Recipes

Skill Level Easy

Cuisine American

Serves 1 Number of Servings

Dietary Info Vegetarian-Friendly

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

Directions

Step 01

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

Step 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 spots.

Step 03

Microwave cooking: Microwave on high power for 60 to 75 seconds, or until the cake has risen and is set in the center without being moist.

Step 04

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

Kitchen Gear Needed

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

Allergen Details

Always check what goes in for allergens, and talk to your doctor if you’re unsure.
  • Contains wheat (gluten) and may contain dairy.

Nutrition Information (each serving)

This info’s just a guide, not medical advice.
  • Calories: 230
  • Fats: 7 g
  • Carbohydrates: 39 g
  • Proteins: 4 g