If you Google 'Chocolate mug cake', you’ll get more than 100 thousand results for the one-serving cake that’s baked in a mug in the microwave. Yet finding the right recipe, not too dense, not too sweet, is harder than one might hope. This microwave chocolate lava mug cake is rich, fudgy, and ready in under 20 minutes.
Where simple ingredients turn into rich, satisfying desserts anyone can make. Moist, chocolatey, and perfectly portioned, this mug cake proves that great desserts don’t need an oven or hours in the kitchen.
Prep Cook Additional Total
Time Time Time Time
10 min 2 min 3 min 15 min
Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Mug Cake
- Single serving – no waste, no leftovers
- No oven needed – microwave-friendly
- Rich & chocolatey – deep cocoa flavor with melted chocolate inside
- Ready in minutes – perfect for instant cravings
- Beginner-friendly – no baking skills required
Part of the charm of mug cakes is how well they fit into everyday life. Sometimes you want dessert without turning it into a whole project. No oven to preheat, no sink full of dishes, and no leftovers staring at you the next day.
This chocolate lava mug cake is made for those moments. It’s quick, comforting, and just the right size. Whether it’s a late-night chocolate craving or a simple treat after dinner, this recipe proves that a little effort can still deliver a lot of satisfaction.
Ingredients
📢1/4 cup flour
📢2 tablespoons cocoa powder
📢1/4 cup granulated sugar
📢1 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
📢1 egg
📢1/2 tsp baking powder
📢3 tablespoons milk
📢3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
📢Pinch salt
📢1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
📢1 tablespoon water
Ingredient Tips
Cocoa powder: Use unsweetened cocoa powder for the best chocolate flavor.Chocolate chips: Semi-sweet chips create the molten lava center.
Butter: Unsalted butter allows better control of sweetness and flavor.
Milk: Any milk works
Instructions
Step 1:
Whisk together with a fork the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined in a mug.
Step 2:
Add in the melted butter, milk, egg, and vanilla. Whisk well to combine, making sure to mix in the flour mixture in the bottom.
Step 3:
Place the semi-sweet chocolate chips in the center of the mug. Drizzle the tablespoon of water right on top of the batter.
Step 4:
Cook in microwave for 1-2 minutes or until the cake rises to the top, and the edges look set. The center will appear slightly wet and shiny, but not raw, and will stick slightly to the finger when touched.
Step 5:
Let it cool for about 5 minutes.
How to Know When It’s Done
The cake should pull slightly away from the sides of the mug. The top should look set, not liquid. The center should feel soft but not raw
Serving Suggestions
This chocolate mug cake is delicious on its own, but you can take it to the next level with:
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream
- Fresh berries
- A dollop of whipped cream
Variations & Customizations
- Extra chocolate: Add a square of dark chocolate instead of chips
- Peanut butter lava: Drop a spoonful of peanut butter in the center
- Nutty version: Add chopped walnuts
- Vegan option: Dairy-free butter
Nutrition Information
Calories 606 | Total Fat 42g | Carbohydrates 55g | Fiber 7g | Sugar 21g | Protein 10g
Storage & Leftovers
This dessert is best enjoyed fresh and warm. Since it’s a single-serving recipe, storage usually isn’t needed. If you must save it, cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then reheat briefly in the microwave.
A Few Things to Keep in Mind When Making Mug Cakes
Mug cakes are one of those desserts that look almost too easy — mix everything, microwave, and enjoy. But a few small details can make a big difference between a rich, fudgy cake and one that feels dry or rubbery.
The biggest thing to watch out for is overcooking. Microwaves don’t all heat the same way, so the exact cooking time can vary. If you cook the cake until it looks completely firm, it will most likely end up dry. The center should still look a little glossy and soft when you take it out. Letting the cake rest for a few minutes allows it to finish setting naturally, while keeping that gooey middle intact.
Mixing also matters more than you might expect. Dry ingredients, especially cocoa powder, like to hide at the bottom of the mug. Take an extra moment to scrape the base and sides while mixing so everything is evenly combined, and the mug itself plays a role too. A standard microwave-safe mug with enough height works best. If the mug is too small, the batter may overflow. If it’s too wide, the cake can cook unevenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is my mug cake dry?
Overcooking is the most common reason. Always start with less time and add more if needed.
2. Can I make this without an egg?
Yes, you can substitute the egg with mashed banana or applesauce, but the texture will be slightly different.
Final Thoughts
This microwave chocolate lava mug cake is proof that you don’t need fancy equipment or hours in the kitchen to enjoy a rich, satisfying dessert. With simple ingredients and a few minutes, you can treat yourself to a warm, chocolatey indulgence anytime.
If you love quick desserts like this, try my easy Tiramisu recipe & classic Cinnamon sugar Donut recipe is the perfect next dessert, made with simple ingredients and full of classic Italian flavor.
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