Coffee Mug Cake
This quick-fix microwave Coffee Mug Cake combines rich chocolate with a hint of coffee for a warm, fluffy single-serving dessert that requires minimal ingredients and zero baking skills. Perfect for instant satisfaction.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- 5 tablespoons milk any type works
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon instant coffee granules or 1 tablespoon strong brewed coffee
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1 tablespoon chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare your mug by choosing one that’s microwave-safe and has at least a 12-ounce capacity to allow room for the cake to rise without overflowing.
- Combine all dry ingredients directly in the mug – flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Stir with a fork until thoroughly mixed and no cocoa clumps remain.
- Add wet ingredients to the mug – milk, oil, coffee granules (or brewed coffee), and vanilla extract. Stir vigorously until you have a smooth batter with no dry patches.
- Fold in chocolate chips if using, gently stirring them throughout the batter for pockets of melted chocolate in your finished cake.
- Microwave on high power for 70-90 seconds. Start checking at the 70-second mark – the cake is done when it’s risen and the top looks set but still slightly moist. Be careful not to overcook!
- Let stand for 2 minutes before eating. The cake will be extremely hot right out of the microwave, and this resting time allows it to finish cooking and develop the best texture.
- Enjoy directly from the mug while still warm, optionally topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Notes
- The size of your mug matters – use one that’s at least twice the volume of your batter to prevent overflow.
- For a more intense coffee flavor, increase the instant coffee to 2 teaspoons.
- Microwave power varies significantly between models. If this is your first mug cake, watch closely through the microwave door to prevent overcooking.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute almond milk, oat milk, or any plant-based milk.
- The cake is best enjoyed immediately while warm, but can rest covered for up to an hour.