Chocolate Chip Mug Cake

As someone who's always on the go, I've found the perfect solution for when I'm craving something sweet but don't want to deal with a lot of fuss: mug cakes. These delightful treats have become a staple in my kitchen, and it's easy to see why they've soared in popularity recently.

This chocolate chip mug cake has the traditional flavors of a fluffy chocolate chip cookie, yet it's so simple to make. And when kids are around and want in on the treat, doubling the recipe is a breeze. Everyone gets their own cake in a mug, and there are smiles all around.

❤️ Why I Love This Recipe

• It's quick. This mug cake takes only 4 minutes to make, prep time included.
• It's customizable. My mug cake tastes amazing as-is, but it can be added to so it's 100% satisfying. Toss in some nuts for added crunch, top it with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or try different flavors of chocolate chips. Whatever you're craving, you can have it.
• So convenient. No slicing is necessary, and the ease of carrying a coffee mug means you can eat your cake wherever you want.

🥘 Ingredients

• All-Purpose Flour - Any brand of all-purpose flour will do. If you have self-rising flour, you can use that too, but leave out the additional baking powder and salt below.
• Light Brown Sugar - A good habit to make when baking with brown sugar is to pack it down when measuring to press out any air pockets so you get an accurate measurement.
• Baking Powder - Baking powder is needed for rise, because this cake has no eggs.
• Salt - A small amount of salt helps balance the sweetness.
• Milk - Whole milk will add the most moisture because it has the most fat, but you can use whatever milk you keep in the fridge.
• Butter - Pop your butter in the microwave for 20-30 seconds because it needs to be melted for this recipe. I like using salted butter for my mug cakes because it adds the most flavor, but unsalted is fine, too.
• Vanilla Extract - Use 100% vanilla extract for the best flavor. Alternatively, if you have vanilla paste or a scraped vanilla bean, you can use that.
• Chocolate Chips - I prefer milk chocolate or semi-sweet mini morsels, but you can use whatever kind you like.

🔪 How To Make Chocolate Chip Mug Cakes

My chocolate chip mug cake is made in just three super easy steps. Grab your measuring utensils, a spoon or whisk, and a microwave-safe mug to get started.

This recipe is for a single-serving dessert mug cake for 1 person.

In a bowl or a large coffee mug, mix together ¼ cup (31.25 grams) of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons light brown sugar, ¼ teaspoon baking powder, and a pinch of salt until well integrated (photos 1 & 2).

Add the 3 tablespoons milk, 3 tablespoons melted butter, ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (photo 3), and mix until nice and smooth (photo 4). (Be sure to scrape the bottom of the bowl to moisten all the flour.). Then, fold in 2 tablespoons of chocolate chips (photo 5).

Microwave it on high for 1-2 minutes. Then, continue microwaving in 30-second increments until your cake is fluffy and bounces back to the touch. Allow your mug cake to cool in the microwave for 1 minute before eating.

💭 Angela's Pro Tips & Recipe Notes

• Make as many mug cakes as you want. This recipe is for a single-mug cake, but you can easily double it to suit your needs. If you're making more than one, microwave them individually so they cook evenly.
• Testing for Doneness. Ensure your mug cake is fully cooked by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with batter, continue microwaving in short increments, checking after each until the toothpick comes out clean.
• Oven Baking Option. If you don't have a microwave, bake your mug cake in an oven-safe ramekin at 350℉ (175℃/Gas Mark 4) for 12-15 minutes. Remember, oven-baked cakes may have a denser texture but are equally satisfying.
• Sugar Alternatives. While brown sugar is typically used for its moisture and flavor, you can substitute it with white sugar or a sugar alternative like erythritol. I use Swerve for the best results. Keep in mind that this might slightly change the cake's flavor and texture.

⭐ Testimonials

I was a little worried about the batter looking thin or runny, but I added some nuts and cooked for 1 minute then added 15 more seconds for a perfect mug cake. So good!

Danny

🥡 Storing & Reheating

Mug cakes can be safely stored at room temperature for up to a day. To keep them moist, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.

While refrigeration isn't necessary, you can chill your mug cake if you prefer it cold.

Freezing

For longer storage, mug cakes can be frozen. Wrap them securely in plastic wrap, place them in a freezer bag, and label them with the date. They're best consumed within 3-4 months.

To thaw a frozen mug cake, leave it in the refrigerator overnight. If you're short on time, you can also thaw it at room temperature, but make sure to eat it within a few hours.

Reheating

When reheating your mug cake, use the microwave in short bursts of 10-15 seconds. Be cautious, as it continues to cook slightly after heating. Remove it as soon as it's warm to avoid it turning rubbery.

❓Can I Make My Mug Cake Vegan or Gluten-Free?

You can! To make a vegan mug cake, substitute your favorite vegan butter and non-dairy milk (almond milk or oat milk will work). To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour that includes xanthan gum for texture.
Note: Substitutions may cause slight differences in flavor and/or texture in the mug cakes.

❓My Mug Cake Is Rubbery, What Can I Do?

I have some tips to help you make a perfectly fluffy mug cake. First, be sure not to over-mix the batter because that can make your cake tough. You want to mix it just until all the flour is incorporated. Be sure to check between every interval when you are microwaving.
The cake is ready when the top is shiny and slightly sticky to the touch. (This is also where you can use the toothpick trick mentioned above.) Your mug cake should give slightly when you touch it with your finger, almost bouncy. If it has no give, it is overcooked.

❓Can I Substitute Baking Soda for Baking Powder in a Mug Cake?

Although they are both leavening agents, baking soda and baking powder are not interchangeable. Baking soda needs acid to trigger the leavening, and there is not enough acid in this recipe for it to work.

📖 Recipe Card