Chocolate Cherry Mug Cake – Tasty Bit With Red Beauty
Craving a rich chocolate dessert with a fruity twist? This Chocolate Cherry Mug Cake is the perfect quick treat that combines deep cocoa flavor with the natural sweetness and tartness of cherries.
Either you’re using fresh cherries, frozen ones, or even maraschino cherries, this single-serve mug cake is moist, fluffy, and absolutely delicious.
You’ll love the soft chocolate cake base paired with juicy cherry bites—ready in less than 10 minutes!
This dessert includes cocoa powder, chocolate chips, chopped cherries, and pantry staples. Everything mixes directly in a microwave-safe mug—no extra bowls needed!
Prep & Cook Info
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Course | Cuisine | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 mins | 1 min 30 secs | 6 mins 30 secs | Dessert | American | 1 |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | 1 Serving | 2 Servings | Alternatives / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 4 tbsp | 8 tbsp | Use gluten-free flour if needed |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | 1 tbsp | 2 tbsp | Dutch-processed or natural |
| Baking powder | ¼ tsp | ½ tsp | Essential for rising |
| Sugar | 1½ tbsp | 3 tbsp | Brown sugar for deeper flavor |
| Milk (any type) | 3 tbsp | 6 tbsp | Almond, oat, soy, or dairy |
| Vegetable oil | 1 tbsp | 2 tbsp | Can use melted butter |
| Vanilla extract | ⅛ tsp | ¼ tsp | Optional but flavorful |
| Chopped cherries | 2 tbsp | 4 tbsp | Fresh, frozen, or jarred |
| Chocolate chips | 1 tbsp | 2 tbsp | Optional for gooey texture |
How to Make Chocolate Cherry Mug Cake
Let’s walk through the exact steps for making this delicious mug cake. All ingredient amounts mentioned below are for 1 serving.
Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a microwave-safe mug (at least 12 oz), add
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1½ tbsp sugar
- ¼ tsp baking powder
Mix thoroughly with a fork or small whisk so that no lumps remain.
Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients
To the same mug, add
- 3 tbsp milk
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- ⅛ tsp vanilla extract
Mix until a smooth batter forms. Scrape down the sides if needed.
Step 3: Fold in Cherries and Chocolate
Now gently fold in
- 2 tbsp chopped cherries
- 1 tbsp chocolate chips
Make sure the fruit and chips are distributed evenly. You can also press a few cherry pieces on top.
Step 4: Microwave and Finish
Microwave the mug on high for 1 minute 30 seconds. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick. If it comes out with moist crumbs, it’s perfect. Let cool for 1 minute before serving.
Serving and Decoration Tips
Serve warm straight from the mug for a cozy dessert. For a more elevated treat:
- Top with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream
- Sprinkle extra chocolate chips or grated chocolate on top
- Drizzle cherry syrup or melted chocolate
- Garnish with a fresh cherry for a pretty finish
If serving guests, you can unmold it gently onto a plate and serve with sides.
Variations to Try
Lets know about some variation of this recipe.
Cherry Lava Mug Cake
Add a chocolate truffle or 1 square of dark chocolate into the center of the batter before microwaving. When you dig in, the center will ooze chocolate.
Cherry Cheesecake Mug Cake
Add a spoonful of cream cheese mixed with a little sugar and vanilla into the center of the batter for a creamy surprise.
Black Forest Mug Cake
Add 1 tsp cherry liqueur or kirsch to the batter. Top with whipped cream and shaved chocolate for a mini Black Forest cake feel.
Each variation builds on the base recipe. Just microwave slightly longer (+10 seconds) if you add creamy fillings or extra liquid.
Storage Tips
- Short-term: If you want to store leftovers, wrap the mug and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Reheat in the microwave for 10–15 seconds before eating.
- Prep Ahead: Mix dry ingredients in a small container or jar. When ready, add wet ingredients and microwave.
- Do not freeze—mug cakes don’t hold up well after defrosting.
Common Mistakes & Fixes
| Mistake | Problem | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Overmixing batter | Dense, rubbery cake | Mix just until combined |
| Using whole cherries | Uneven moisture | Chop cherries before adding |
| Microwaving too long | Dry texture | Start with 90 seconds, adjust by 10 secs |
| Small mug | Overflowing batter | Use at least 12 oz mug |
Mug Cake Microwave Easy 3 Ingredients Chocolate Brownie (Bonus)
For emergencies, try this 3-ingredient chocolate brownie mug cake:
- 4 tbsp Nutella
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
Mix in a mug and microwave for 1 minute 10 seconds. That’s it! Soft, chewy, chocolatey brownie in under 2 minutes.
Conclusion
This Chocolate Cherry Mug Cake is a cozy, fruity dessert that satisfies your chocolate craving in minutes. It’s perfect for nights when you want something homemade but effortless.
The cherries give it a lovely burst of flavor and freshness, while the chocolate chips melt into gooey bliss.
Try a variation, top it creatively, or enjoy it as-is—it’s a mug of happiness every time!
