Gooey Chocolate Mug Cake
Craving a decadent chocolate dessert but short on time? This Gooey Chocolate Mug Cake is your perfect fix. It’s rich, indulgent, and incredibly easy to make in under 5 minutes using your microwave.
Simply combine flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and milk in a mug, add a generous spoonful of chocolate chips or a square of dark chocolate in the center for that gooey texture, and microwave!
This is the ultimate no-fuss dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth anytime.
Preparation Overview
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Course | Cuisine | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 mins | 1 min | 4 mins | Dessert | Global | 1 |
Ingredients (with Alternatives)
| Ingredient | 1 Serving | Alternatives / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 4 tbsp | Almond flour for gluten-free version |
| Cocoa powder | 2 tbsp | Dutch-processed or raw cacao |
| Granulated sugar | 2 tbsp | Brown sugar, coconut sugar, or stevia |
| Baking powder | ¼ tsp | Not optional |
| Milk of choice | 3 tbsp | Almond, soy, oat, or dairy milk |
| Vegetable oil | 1 tbsp | Melted butter or coconut oil |
| Vanilla extract | ¼ tsp | Optional for extra flavor |
| Chocolate chips/chunk | 2 tbsp or 1 square | For gooey center – dark, milk, or semi-sweet |
| Salt | A pinch | Enhances chocolate flavor |
Tools & Equipment
| Tool/Equipment | Description/Use | Alternatives |
|---|---|---|
| Microwave-safe mug | For mixing and cooking the cake | Small microwave-safe bowl |
| Spoon | Mixing ingredients | Fork or mini whisk |
| Measuring spoons | For accurate measurement of ingredients | Estimation by tablespoon (not preferred) |
| Microwave | Cooking the mug cake | Air fryer-safe cup (adjust timing) |
How to Make Gooey Chocolate Mug Cake
Before diving into the steps, remember to use a microwave-safe mug that’s large enough to allow the cake to rise without overflowing. Let’s walk through this gooey indulgence step by step.
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a microwave-safe mug, add 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder, 2 tablespoons of sugar, ¼ teaspoon of baking powder, and a small pinch of salt. Use a spoon or fork to mix well so all dry ingredients are evenly combined.
Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients
Pour in 3 tablespoons of milk, 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, and ¼ teaspoon of vanilla extract into the same mug. Stir thoroughly until a smooth batter forms, making sure there are no dry pockets at the bottom.
Step 3: Create the Gooey Center
Drop 2 tablespoons of chocolate chips or place a small square of dark chocolate right in the center of the batter. Gently press it down slightly—it will melt during cooking and form the gooey core.
Step 4: Microwave
Place the mug in the microwave and cook on high for about 60–75 seconds. Watch it rise! The top should look set, but the center will remain slightly molten for that gooey texture. Avoid overcooking.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Let it cool for 1 minute before eating. The center continues to cook slightly as it sits, so resting helps the texture settle.
Serving and Decoration Tips
- Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a swirl of whipped cream for a richer dessert.
- Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with extra chocolate syrup to enhance visual appeal.
- Add fresh raspberries or sliced bananas on top for a fruity twist.
- Serve directly in the mug or gently transfer to a dessert bowl with care.
Variations to Try
- Mint Chocolate Version: Add a drop of peppermint extract along with the vanilla. You can also use mint chocolate chips for the gooey center.
- Nutty Gooey Cake: Add 1 tablespoon of chopped hazelnuts or walnuts into the batter. For extra richness, place a spoonful of peanut butter in the center along with chocolate chips.
- Mocha Mug Cake: Mix ½ teaspoon of instant coffee granules into the dry ingredients for a subtle coffee kick.
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based milk, swap oil with coconut oil, and replace chocolate with vegan chocolate chips.
Each variation follows the same basic recipe—just stir in or swap a few ingredients!
Storing Tips
- Best enjoyed fresh, as the gooey center is ideal when warm.
- If needed, store the mug (covered) in the fridge for up to 1 day.
- To reheat: microwave for 10–15 seconds to restore warmth, but note the gooeyness may reduce.
- Avoid freezing, as the texture will become rubbery when thawed.
Extra Helpful Tips
- Use a large enough mug (at least 12 oz) to prevent overflowing.
- Don’t overmix the batter; just stir until combined.
- If your microwave is powerful, start with 50 seconds and test for doneness to avoid drying it out.
Common Mistakes & Fixes
| Mistake | Problem Caused | Quick Fix / Prevention |
|---|---|---|
| Using small mug | Overflow while cooking | Use a larger mug (at least 12 oz) |
| Overcooking | Dry, rubbery texture | Start with 60 secs and check with spoon |
| Skipping gooey center | Less rich, no molten texture | Always include chocolate chips or chunk inside |
| Not mixing well | Uneven texture, flour lumps | Mix all dry and wet ingredients thoroughly |
Mug Cake Microwave Easy 3 Ingredients Chocolate Brownie
Want an even simpler version?
- Ingredients:
- 1 ripe banana
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp peanut butter (or almond butter)
- How to Make:
- Mash the banana in a mug.
- Mix in cocoa powder and peanut butter.
- Microwave for 1–1½ minutes. That’s it!
This version is flourless, gluten-free, dairy-free, and takes less than 5 minutes from start to finish.
This gooey chocolate mug cake is the ultimate single-serving dessert for late-night cravings or quick celebrations. Try it today, and let us know how it turned out in the comments. Customize with your favorite add-ins and enjoy the chocolaty goodness in every bite!
