How to Make a Nutella Mug Cake (Rich, Quick & Fluffy)
When the craving for a decadent dessert strikes and you don’t want to spend hours baking, a Nutella mug cake is your ultimate fix.
This single-serve dessert combines the gooey richness of Nutella with the fluffiness of a warm chocolate cake — all made in your microwave in just a couple of minutes.
Whether you’re snuggled on the couch with a book or need a sweet boost during a study break, this quick dessert is ready when you are.
With flexible ingredient swaps and flavor variations, it’s more than a recipe — it’s your personal dessert canvas.
Ingredients & Serving Variations
| Ingredient | Amount | Substitutes / Serving Ideas |
|---|---|---|
| Nutella | 3 tablespoons | Use any hazelnut spread; serve with extra spoonful on top after microwaving |
| All-purpose flour | 4 tablespoons | Gluten-free flour or almond flour; serve topped with powdered sugar |
| Milk | 3 tablespoons | Dairy-free milk works too; pair with vanilla ice cream for serving |
| Baking powder | 1/4 teaspoon | Or use 1/8 tsp baking soda + 1/2 tsp vinegar; serve with chocolate chips sprinkled on top |
| Vanilla extract | 1/4 teaspoon | Skip if needed; drizzle caramel sauce after baking |
| Salt | A pinch | Use sea salt or pink salt; enhances flavor when topped with whipped cream |
Tools You’ll Need
| Tool | Alternative Option |
|---|---|
| Microwave-safe mug (10–12 oz) | Heat-proof bowl or ramekin |
| Fork or mini whisk | Spoon (for mixing) |
| Measuring spoons | Standard tablespoon & teaspoon set |
| Microwave (800–1000 watts) | Oven (350°F for 10–12 minutes) |
How to Make Nutella Mug Cake (Step-by-Step Instructions)
Step 1: Prepare Your Mug
Choose a microwave-safe mug that can hold at least 10 oz. This allows enough room for the cake to rise without spilling over.
Lightly grease the inside with a drop of oil or butter if you want easier cleanup and a softer edge.
Step 2: Soften the Nutella
Place 3 tablespoons of Nutella into the mug. Microwave it for about 15–20 seconds just to warm it up — this makes mixing much smoother and prevents clumps later.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Pour in 3 tablespoons of milk and ¼ teaspoon of vanilla extract. Use a fork or whisk to stir it into the warm Nutella until it becomes a silky, uniform liquid.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Add 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, ¼ teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
Stir gently but thoroughly, making sure to scrape the bottom and sides. Mix just until everything comes together with no visible flour lumps.
Step 5: Microwave the Cake
Place the mug in the microwave and cook on high power for 60 to 90 seconds. Begin checking at the 60-second mark.
The cake should rise to the top, appear firm on the surface, but still feel soft to the touch. Avoid overcooking as it can become rubbery.
Step 6: Let It Rest
After microwaving, let the cake sit in the mug for 1–2 minutes. This step allows the structure to finish setting and helps lock in moisture.
During this time, the texture transitions from molten to soft and sponge-like.
Step 7: Serve It Your Way
Enjoy straight from the mug or transfer to a plate. Top with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a spoonful of Nutella, or a few chopped hazelnuts for crunch. The options are endless.
Storage Tips (Short & Long-Term)
- Fresh Serving: This cake tastes best when eaten within 5 minutes of cooking. The Nutella is warm, the texture is moist, and the richness is perfect when freshly microwaved.
- Refrigerating: You can store the leftover mug cake in the mug (covered) in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Before eating, microwave for 15–20 seconds to bring back the soft texture.
- Freezing: While not ideal, you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Remove from mug, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze. To reheat, thaw at room temperature and microwave for 20 seconds. The texture may be slightly denser, but still tasty.
- Do Not Store Batter: Mug cake batter does not store well. Always mix fresh for best results.
Flavor Variations to Try
1. Nutella Banana Mug Cake
Mash half a ripe banana and mix it into the batter before microwaving. It adds natural sweetness and extra moisture for a fudgier texture.
2. Peanut Butter Center
Drop 1 teaspoon of peanut butter right in the middle of the batter before microwaving. It melts into a gooey center that pairs beautifully with Nutella.
3. Mocha Nutella Mug Cake
Stir ½ teaspoon of instant espresso powder into the batter for a bold, café-style chocolate flavor that intensifies the richness.
4. Nutella Lava Cake Version
Spoon half the batter into the mug, add 1 teaspoon of chilled Nutella in the center, then cover with the rest of the batter. Microwave as usual for a molten lava center.
5. Gluten-Free Version
Swap out the all-purpose flour for almond flour or a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. You may need to reduce the milk by ½ tablespoon to avoid a runny consistency.
6. Topping Twists
Try these post-bake toppings:
- Mini marshmallows and a drizzle of chocolate sauce
- Crushed cookies or graham crackers
- Salted caramel and a pinch of sea salt
- Fresh berries and powdered sugar
Final Thoughts: Cozy Dessert in a Mug
The Nutella mug cake is more than just a treat — it’s comfort food made simple. In under 5 minutes, you get the joy of a rich chocolate cake with no oven, no mess, and endless ways to customize it.
Now grab a mug and indulge in your next favorite homemade dessert — one bite at a time.
