Vanilla Mug Cake in the Microwave

A single-serving vanilla cake cooks directly in a microwave-safe mug.

Total 7 minMakes 1 mug cake
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This single-serving vanilla mug cake mixes directly in a microwave-safe mug and cooks in about a minute. Measure the flour loosely, stir until no dry pockets remain and leave room for the batter to rise. Microwave power varies, so start with the shorter time and add brief bursts until the top looks set. Let it stand before eating because the mug will be hot. In a 350-ml (12-ounce) microwave-safe mug, stir flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. Add milk, oil and vanilla; stir until smooth, scraping the bottom and sides. Fold in chocolate chips if using; keep the mug no more than half full. Cook at 800 watts for 60 seconds; check the center and add 10-second bursts until just set.

Recipe card

Vanilla Mug Cake in the Microwave

Prep 5 minCook 2 minTotal 7 minYield 1 mug cake
Only numbered ingredient amounts change.

Equipment: Mixing bowls, measuring tools and suitable baking pan or appliance

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Mix dry

    In a 350-ml (12-ounce) microwave-safe mug, stir flour, sugar, baking powder and salt.

  2. Add liquids

    Add milk, oil and vanilla; stir until smooth, scraping the bottom and sides.

  3. Add topping

    Fold in chocolate chips if using; keep the mug no more than half full.

  4. Microwave

    Cook at 800 watts for 60 seconds; check the center and add 10-second bursts until just set.

  5. Stand

    Rest 1 minute before eating; serve warm from the mug.

How to tell when it is ready

Rest 1 minute before eating; serve warm from the mug.

Tips

  • In a 350-ml (12-ounce) microwave-safe mug, stir flour, sugar, baking powder and salt.
  • Add milk, oil and vanilla.
  • Fold in chocolate chips if using.
  • Cook at 800 watts for 60 seconds.

Troubleshooting

  • If cake overflows, use a larger mug.
  • If center is wet, microwave in 10-second bursts.

Substitutions

  • Use plant milk for a dairy-free cake.
  • Use almond extract instead of vanilla.

Variations

  • Stir in chocolate chips.
  • Add a pinch of cinnamon.

Serving suggestions

  • Top with berries.
  • Add a spoonful of yogurt.
  • Drizzle with chocolate sauce.
  • Eat warm from the mug.

Make ahead

Prepare the measured ingredients in advance. Best eaten immediately; do not store at room temperature for later.

Storage

Best eaten immediately; do not store at room temperature for later.

Food safety

Use a microwave-safe mug with headroom; the mug and cake may be very hot after cooking.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know vanilla mug cake in the microwave is ready?

Rest 1 minute before eating; serve warm from the mug.

How should I store vanilla mug cake in the microwave?

Best eaten immediately; do not store at room temperature for later.

Top with berries. Best eaten immediately; do not store at room temperature for later.

About the author

Savva Loginov

Savva Loginov writes about traditional Ukrainian cooking, including regional dishes, heritage baking and the customs behind familiar recipes. His English guides explain each dish’s context alongside clear, practical cooking instructions.

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