If you’ve ever craved something sweet but don’t want to commit to baking an entire cake, this Chocolate Chip Mug Cake Recipe is an absolute game changer. It’s quick, satisfying, and oh-so-moist with melty chocolate chips ready at every bite. Perfect for when you want a personal treat whipped up in just minutes using simple ingredients you probably already have. Whether it’s a late-night craving or a fun weekend snack, this mug cake feels like a warm hug in dessert form.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential to nail the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color in your mug cake. Each one plays a key role in creating a tender crumb and that irresistible chocolate studded goodness.
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour: The foundation of your cake that gives structure and the right texture.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and helps the top caramelize slightly.
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder: This little lift gives your mug cake a fluffy and light crumb.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances the chocolate and balances the sweetness perfectly.
- 3 tablespoons milk (dairy or non-dairy): Keeps the cake moist and tender.
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (or oil for a vegan option): Adds richness and a luscious mouthfeel.
- 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and depth to every bite.
- 2 tablespoons chocolate chips (plus more for topping, optional): The star ingredient—melty pockets of chocolate that make this mug cake divine.
How to Make Chocolate Chip Mug Cake Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Grab a microwave-safe mug that holds at least 12 ounces and whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This initial mix ensures that the leavening agent is evenly distributed so your cake rises beautifully and bakes evenly.
Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients
Pour in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the dry mix. Stir everything together until you get a smooth batter with no visible flour pockets at the bottom. This step guarantees your mug cake will have the perfect consistency—not too runny but not too dense.
Step 3: Stir in Those Chocolate Chips
Fold the chocolate chips into the batter, keeping a few aside if you’d like to sprinkle some on top before cooking. These chocolate morsels will melt slightly during microwaving, creating delightful, gooey bite spots throughout your cake.
Step 4: Microwave to Perfection
Pop the mug into the microwave and cook it on high for about 60 to 90 seconds. You’ll see the cake rise and set in the center—that’s your cue to stop cooking. Keep an eye on it as microwave power varies; you want it firm but still moist inside, no rubbery edges.
Step 5: Let It Cool and Enjoy
Give your mug cake 1 to 2 minutes to cool down before digging in. This little pause helps it set up just right, and if you like, top it with extra chocolate chips, whipped cream, or a scoop of ice cream for a truly indulgent experience.
How to Serve Chocolate Chip Mug Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your mug cake with simple garnishes like a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of chocolate syrup, or a few sprinkles of sea salt to heighten the flavors. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top can turn this humble treat into a dessert worthy of any celebration.
Side Dishes
Though this Chocolate Chip Mug Cake Recipe shines solo, pairing it with fresh berries or a small fruit salad adds a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate. A hot cup of coffee or tea also complements the sweetness perfectly, making for an ideal cozy afternoon break.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the mug cake straight in the mug for ultimate comfort food vibes, or if you want to get fancy, carefully loosen the edges with a knife and invert the cake onto a plate. Add a sprig of mint or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for a charming café-style touch that will impress anyone you share it with.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers—which is rare because this mug cake is so tempting—cover the mug tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind the cake is best enjoyed fresh, as it may dry out slightly when chilled.
Freezing
Freezing this mug cake is not recommended due to its moist texture and quick bake time, which doesn’t lend itself well to freezing and thawing. You’re better off making a fresh mug cake whenever the craving strikes.
Reheating
To bring back the warm, gooey magic of this Chocolate Chip Mug Cake Recipe, microwave leftovers for about 20 to 30 seconds. This quick reheating melts the chocolate again and refreshes the soft cake texture, making it almost as delightful as when first made.
FAQs
Can I use gluten-free flour in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend of your choice. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or a binding agent to help the cake hold together properly.
What type of chocolate chips work best?
Semi-sweet chocolate chips are a classic choice, but feel free to experiment with dark, milk, or even white chocolate chips based on your personal preference. Mini chips tend to distribute more evenly throughout the batter.
Can I make this mug cake vegan?
Yes! Replace the melted butter with coconut oil or another vegan oil, use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and make sure your chocolate chips are dairy-free. This recipe is very adaptable to vegan needs.
Is it possible to bake this in an oven instead of a microwave?
You can bake the batter in a small oven-safe ramekin at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-15 minutes until set. Just keep an eye on it, as ovens vary and it won’t rise quite the same way as in the microwave.
How can I make the cake more chocolatey?
For an extra chocolate boost, add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients or fold in a few extra chocolate chips. You could also drizzle melted chocolate on top after microwaving for a decadent finish.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Chip Mug Cake Recipe is pure comfort packed into a mere minutes, making it a perfect go-to whenever you want a sweet moment to yourself. From its quick prep to its warm, fudgy center, it’s a little dessert gem that never fails to bring a smile. So go ahead and try it—you won’t believe how something so simple can taste so wonderfully indulgent!
Print
Chocolate Chip Mug Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 1.5 minutes
- Total Time: 3.5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Microwaving
- Cuisine: American
Description
This quick and easy Chocolate Chip Mug Cake is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth in just minutes. Made with simple pantry ingredients, this single-serving dessert is microwaved right in the mug, making cleanup a breeze. Soft, moist, and loaded with melty chocolate chips, it’s an indulgent treat ready in under 10 minutes.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Wet Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (or oil for a vegan option)
- 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Add-ins
- 2 tablespoons chocolate chips (plus more for topping, optional)
Instructions
- Mix dry ingredients: In a microwave-safe mug (at least 12 ounces), whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt until fully combined.
- Add wet ingredients: Pour in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the dry mix. Stir continuously until the batter is smooth and no dry flour remains at the bottom of the mug.
- Incorporate chocolate chips: Fold in the chocolate chips gently, reserving a few to sprinkle on top if desired for a melty chocolate topping.
- Microwave the cake: Place the mug in the microwave and cook on high for 60 to 90 seconds. Cooking time depends on your microwave’s power, but the cake should rise and set firmly in the center without being dry.
- Cool and serve: Allow the mug cake to cool for 1 to 2 minutes before eating to avoid burning yourself. Optionally, enhance with extra chocolate chips, whipped cream, or a scoop of ice cream for added decadence.
Notes
- Make sure to use a microwave-safe mug that holds at least 12 ounces to prevent overflow during cooking.
- Cooking time varies by microwave wattage—start with 60 seconds and add more time if necessary in 10-second increments.
- For a vegan version, substitute melted butter with coconut oil or another plant-based oil and use a non-dairy milk.
- Serve immediately for the best texture; the cake may become dense if left to sit too long.
- You can customize this mug cake by adding nuts, peanut butter, or substituting the chocolate chips for different mix-ins.
