Craving a quick and delicious dessert but don’t want to commit to baking an entire cake? Enter the chocolate chip mug cake—a one-bowl wonder that delivers the rich, gooey satisfaction of a traditional cake in under five minutes. This single-serving treat is perfect for late-night indulgences, midday pick-me-ups, or a spontaneous sweet craving.

Made with pantry staples, this recipe combines a soft, moist vanilla cake base studded with molten chocolate chips. It’s simple to make, mess-free, and can be customized endlessly. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this mug cake is a surefire hit.

Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
All-purpose flour	4 tbsp
Granulated sugar	2 tbsp
Baking powder	1/4 tsp
Pinch of salt	A small pinch
Milk (dairy or plant-based)	3 tbsp
Vegetable oil or melted butter	2 tbsp
Vanilla extract	1/4 tsp
Chocolate chips	2 tbsp (or more!)

Notes:

Substitute gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
Use coconut sugar or brown sugar for a richer flavor.
Dark chocolate chips or white chocolate chunks can add variety.

Equipment Needed

Microwave-safe mug: The star of the recipe! Choose one that holds at least 12 oz to avoid spillage.
Measuring spoons: For accurate measurements of flour, sugar, and liquids.
Fork or small whisk: To mix the batter without lumps.
Microwave: For quick and efficient cooking.

Optional: A spoon to scoop out every last bit of cake goodness!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation

Begin by selecting a clean, microwave-safe mug with enough room for the batter to rise.
In the mug, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir well to ensure even distribution.

Mixing the Wet Ingredients

Add milk, oil or melted butter, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Stir vigorously with a fork or small whisk until smooth. The batter should be thick but pourable.

Adding the Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the chocolate chips, reserving a few for topping.

Cooking the Mug Cake

Microwave the mug on high power for 60–90 seconds. The exact time will depend on your microwave’s wattage; start with 60 seconds and add increments of 10 seconds if the cake appears undercooked. The cake should rise and be springy to the touch. Avoid overcooking to keep it moist.

Final Touches

Let the cake cool for a minute or two before digging in. Top with a few extra chocolate chips or a dusting of powdered sugar for added flair.

Tips and Variations

Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing the batter can make the cake dense. Stir just until combined.
Flavor Boosters: Add a pinch of cinnamon, a splash of coffee, or a dash of cocoa powder for a twist.
Vegan Option: Use plant-based milk and swap butter for coconut oil.
Texture Tweaks: Add crushed nuts, shredded coconut, or even a dollop of peanut butter for extra decadence.

For an ultra-gooey center, press a chunk of chocolate or a marshmallow into the batter before microwaving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your chocolate chip mug cake directly in the mug for an adorable presentation. Top with:

A scoop of vanilla ice cream for a hot-and-cold contrast.
Whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce.
A sprinkle of sea salt to elevate the sweetness.

Pair it with a side of fresh berries or a glass of cold milk for a complete dessert experience.

Pairings

This dessert pairs beautifully with:

Hot Chocolate: Double down on chocolatey goodness.
Espresso or Coffee: The bitterness balances the cake’s sweetness.
Dessert Wine: A sweet Moscato or late-harvest Riesling complements the flavors beautifully.

Storage and Reheating

While this mug cake is best enjoyed fresh, leftovers can be stored:

Refrigerator: Cover the mug with plastic wrap and store for up to 24 hours.
Reheating: Microwave for 15–20 seconds to warm it up.

Freezing is not recommended due to the delicate texture.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving
Calories	~300
Total Fat	~15g
Carbohydrates	~38g
Protein	~4g
Allergens	Contains gluten, dairy (if not using alternatives).

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation.

Conclusion

The chocolate chip mug cake is the perfect answer to those moments when you need a quick, indulgent treat. Its moist, fluffy texture and pockets of melty chocolate chips make it irresistibly satisfying. With just a few basic ingredients and a microwave, you can create a single-serving dessert in minutes, no baking expertise required. Whether it’s for a late-night craving or a cozy afternoon pick-me-up, this mug cake delivers big on flavor with minimal effort.

What makes this recipe even more special is its versatility and customization options. From adding a pinch of cinnamon to experimenting with mix-ins like nuts or caramel, the possibilities are endless. Try this easy mug cake for yourself, and don’t forget to share your experience! Snap a photo, leave a comment, or tag your creation on social media—we’d love to see your chocolate chip masterpiece.