Craving something sweet and satisfying but don’t want to commit to a whole cake? You’re going to love our Chocolate Coffee Mug Cake — it’s your ticket to instant dessert gratification! With just a few simple ingredients and mere minutes, you’ll have a delectable single-serving treat that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.
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What is a Microwave Mug Cake, Anyway?
Before we go any further, let’s first cover what exactly a microwave mug cake is. As the name suggests, it’s a cake prepared in a mug and baked in the microwave.
Unlike traditional cake recipes, coffee mug cakes serve just one person. In addition, they cook in the microwave, not the oven — most mugs shatter to pieces under such intense heat. Because of their ease and convenience, mug cakes have gained lots of popularity, and we’re not complaining!
Ingredients
Below is an overview of the ingredients and instructions for this recipe. Don’t forget to scroll down to the recipe card below for the complete details!
- Flour – Regular all-purpose flour forms the base of the cake batter.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – This creates a rich chocolate flavor base.
- Espresso Powder – This enhances the chocolate taste. Feel free to use decaf varieties if needed.
- Milk – Any milk you like best will work.
- Butter – We recommend using unsalted butter to avoid overpowering the cake.
- Egg – This adds structure to the cake, helping it hold its shape.
- Dark Chocolate Chunks – Feel free to swap chocolate chips, and use semi-sweet, milk, or white chocolate instead!
Espresso vs Coffee
Although commonly confused, espresso and coffee are not the same things! Both drinks feature a coffee bean base. However, espresso is a thicker, more concentrated liquid.
Meanwhile, coffee has a higher ratio of water to coffee grounds. As a result, it has a milder taste and a thinner consistency.
Does it Matter What Kind of Espresso I Use?
We recommend using an instant espresso powder. However, any espresso powder you have on hand or find in the store will work just fine!
Can I Use Coffee Grounds Instead of Espresso Powder?
We recommend sticking with espresso powder if you can find it. However, coffee grounds will work in its place if you’re in a pinch.
How to Make Chocolate Coffee Cake in a Mug
- Mix. To start, add all the dry ingredients to a coffee mug, and mix until they are well combined.
- Stir. Then, stir in the wet ingredients, until a smooth batter forms.
- Top. Top your mug cake recipe with chocolate chunks. Or, if you’re feeling extra indulgent, press a large chocolate square into the center.
- Microwave. Place your mug in the microwave, and cook on high until the cake sets. You should be able to insert a toothpick into the center and pull it out clean, apart from the gooey chocolate chunks, of course!
Baking Tips
- Don’t Overbake! If you leave your coffee mug cake in the microwave for too long it will become way too dry. To prevent this from happening, be sure to keep an eye on it while cooking, and pull it out as soon as the batter has set.
- Use the Right Size Mug. Most conventional coffee mugs will work just fine. The trick is to allow an extra two inches from the top of the batter. Otherwise, the cake is likely to explode while cooking, leaving you with a mess!
- Measure Carefully. We recommend using a food scale for the most accurate results and a soft, rich cake. However, if that’s not an option, the spoon and level method is your next best bet!
Serving Suggestions
This chocolate coffee mug cake recipe is best served warm! We recommend topping it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, but you could also add whipped cream, sprinkles, or fresh fruit!
Common Questions
Definitely! Sprinkle in nuts, candies, or even a dollop of peanut butter before you microwave it.
The cake is ready when it has risen and the top looks set. It should feel slightly springy to the touch. Be careful not to overcook it — microwaves can vary.
Yes, you can! Substitute dairy milk with almond, soy, or oat milk, and use vegetable oil or melted coconut oil. Make sure to check that your cocoa powder and other ingredients are also vegan-friendly.
It’s best to mix and microwave the batter immediately for optimal texture. But you can pre-mix the dry ingredients and store them in a sealed container. When you’re ready, just add the wet ingredients and cook!
More Microwave Mug Cake Recipes You’ll Love
If you’re a fan of quick and easy single-serving recipes, you’ll be excited to know we have a few more up our sleeves!
Chocolate Coffee Mug Cake
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 Tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 Tablespoons sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 Tablespoons milk
- 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 1 large egg room temperature
- 2 ounces dark chocolate chunks
Instructions
- Add all of the dry ingredients to a microwave-safe mug. Mix until combined.1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 2 Tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder, 1/4 teaspoon baking powder, 2 Tablespoons sugar, 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Add the wet ingredients to the mug with the dry ingredients. Mix again until smooth.1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, 3 Tablespoons milk, 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter, 1 large egg
- Top with chocolate chunks.2 ounces dark chocolate chunks
- Microwave on high for 1 minute. (See notes.)
Video
Equipment
Notes
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Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
We hope you love this coffee mug cake recipe as much as we do. If you do give it a try, please let us know in the comments below!
Love everything you guys do. Thanks!! 5 stars ⭐️
Thank you so much! 😊
Xo,
Alia & Radwa
Next time, a little less espresso and a little more sugar. Otherwise, it was a pleasant surprise as to how well it turned out.
Thank you for the feedback, Luther! We’re glad you enjoyed it! 😊
Xo,
Alia & Radwa