There’s something incredibly satisfying about whipping up a dessert in the blink of an eye, and a Nutella Mug Cake checks all the boxes for simplicity, flavor, and indulgence. This single-serving delight is soft, rich, and packed with the unmistakable hazelnut-chocolate goodness of Nutella. Whether you’re craving a midnight snack or need a quick dessert fix, this mug cake is the perfect answer.

The Nutella Mug Cake gained popularity for being one of the easiest desserts to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients and less than five minutes from start to finish. It’s a treat that doesn’t require fancy equipment or a lengthy process—just mix, microwave, and enjoy. With its gooey center and decadent flavor, it’s a dessert you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
All-purpose flour	4 tbsp
Sugar	2 tbsp
Cocoa powder	1 tbsp
Baking powder	1/4 tsp
Milk	3 tbsp
Nutella	2 tbsp
Vegetable oil	1 tbsp
Vanilla extract	1/4 tsp
Salt (optional)	A pinch

Notes on Ingredients

Flour: For a gluten-free option, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.
Milk: Non-dairy alternatives like almond or oat milk work just as well.
Cocoa powder: Adds depth to the chocolate flavor; use unsweetened for balance.

Equipment Needed

Microwave-safe mug: The star of this recipe, your mug acts as both the mixing bowl and the baking dish. Ensure it’s at least 12 ounces to avoid overflow.
Measuring spoons: Precise measurements are key to the perfect texture.
Fork or small whisk: Helps to evenly mix the ingredients.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare your mug: Lightly grease the inside of the mug with oil or butter to prevent sticking.
Mix the dry ingredients: In the mug, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and a pinch of salt (if using). Stir well to ensure no clumps remain.
Incorporate the wet ingredients: Add the milk, Nutella, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Use a fork or small whisk to mix everything until smooth and well-combined.
Microwave: Place the mug in the microwave and cook on high for 60–90 seconds. Cooking time may vary depending on your microwave’s wattage. Start with 60 seconds and check if the cake is set. The top should look cooked, but the center can remain slightly gooey for a molten texture.
Cool slightly: Let the mug cake rest for 1–2 minutes as it will be very hot straight out of the microwave.
Serve and enjoy: You can dig in directly or top with whipped cream, a drizzle of Nutella, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

Tips and Variations

Consistency is key: Avoid overmixing the batter, as it can make the cake dense. Stir until just combined.
Add-ins: Mix in chocolate chips or crushed hazelnuts for added texture.
Dietary adjustments: Replace sugar with a sugar substitute for a lower-calorie version.
Double the Nutella: Add an extra dollop of Nutella in the center before microwaving for a gooey surprise.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Nutella Mug Cake, try topping it with:

A dusting of powdered sugar for a simple finish.
A swirl of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for a café-style presentation.
Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries for a tart contrast.
Vanilla or hazelnut gelato for a gourmet touch.

Pair it with a warm latte or a glass of cold milk to round out the experience.

Pairings

Nutella Mug Cake pairs wonderfully with beverages that complement its rich and creamy profile.

Hot drinks: A cappuccino or hazelnut-flavored coffee enhances the nutty notes of the cake.
Cold options: Iced mocha or chocolate milk for a refreshing contrast.
Cocktails: Try a creamy Bailey’s Irish Cream on ice for an adult-friendly pairing.

Storage and Reheating

This mug cake is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers:

Refrigeration: Cover the mug with cling wrap and store in the fridge for up to 1 day.
Reheating: Microwave for 15–20 seconds to warm it up. Be careful not to overheat, as the cake can become dry.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving
Calories	~370
Fat	18g
Carbohydrates	47g
Protein	5g
Allergen Warning	Contains gluten, dairy, and nuts.

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

Conclusion

Nutella Mug Cake is the perfect dessert for anyone who craves indulgence without the hassle of traditional baking. Its rich, chocolaty flavor and gooey texture make it a treat that’s both comforting and decadent. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick solo snack or sharing the recipe with friends, it’s bound to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. The simplicity of ingredients and minimal prep time means you can enjoy this delightful mug cake any time a sweet craving strikes.

What makes this recipe even better is its versatility and adaptability. You can customize it with toppings, mix-ins, or dietary tweaks to suit your preferences. The fact that it all comes together in just minutes makes it a lifesaver for busy schedules or last-minute dessert needs. So, grab a mug and your favorite jar of Nutella, and let this recipe become your go-to for satisfying those chocolate cravings in the most delicious way possible. Don’t forget to share your creations and ideas in the comments or on social media using #NutellaMugCakeLove!