How to make a mug cake
Looking for detailed instructions beyond the ingredient list and step-by-step recipe above? Read on for the basics on how to make the best mug cake ever.
Pull out a 12-ounce mug that’s on the larger side. It’s something you’re more likely to drink hot chocolate from than coffee.
The mug cake starts with similar ingredients to a full-sized chocolate cake: flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder and salt.
Add your wet ingredients: milk, melted butter and vanilla. Make sure your milk isn’t too cold or your butter isn’t too hot or the butter will immediately start curdling when it hits the cold milk. If necessary, let your melted butter cool slightly before using it.
Stir in caramel and pecans. Or try your favorite flavor combination like chocolate chip and peanut butter (to make Perfect chocolate peanut butter mug cake).
Microwave on high until just done, about 90 seconds.
Tips for making cake in a mug
To avoid a gummy or tough mug cake, be sure not to overcook the batter. Always start with the least cooking time and if your cake is still not done, continue microwaving it in 10 second increments.
Accidentally overbaked? Top with whipped cream, melted chocolate, or store-bought frosting (if you have it) to put some moisture back into your cake. And of course, these additions are delicious whether you overcooked the cake or not.
Assistant Editor
Samantha (she/her) is an assistant editor at the Good Housekeeping Test Kitchen, where she writes about tasty recipes, must-try food products, and top-tested secrets for home cooking success. She has tasted hundreds of products and recipes since joining GH in 2020 (hard work!). A graduate of Fordham University, she considers the kitchen to be her happiest place.
