Vanilla Mug Cake | Greedy Eats (2024)

Vanilla Mug Cake is an incredibly simple dessert that you can literally make in under 5 minutes. Top off with a swirl of frosting or a scoop of Nutella, some vanilla ice cream or sprinkles and you are in dessert heaven. Also this cake is made without any eggs!

We've tested and tweaked this recipe countless times. This is the most amazing cake in a cup you'll ever try! It has become an all-time favorite quick dessert in my household. Everyone in your house is sure to love it too!

If you are more of a Chocolate Lover, try my Chocolate Mug Cake instead. If you love a light and soft cake in a mug, you CANNOT miss out on this Lemon Mug Cake.

Now if you got just one stale banana lying on your counter, don't throw it away. Bake this Banana Mug Cake instead!

What is a mug cake?

It is like a mini cake that you can make in your microwave! It is best when you have a sudden urge to eat something sweet. All you need is a few ingredients and 2 minutes! You can zap a cake in the microwave using a mug, cup, or even a small bowl that is safe to microwave.

Why You’ll Love This Cake

Simplicity: The method of making it is very simple. (You need just one cup, a few measuring spoons, and 2 minutes. Less utensils get dirty in making it and the result will satisfy all your cake cravings!). The convenience and speed of preparation make it attractive for those looking for a quick dessert.

Texture: This recipe yields a soft, moist, and a springy cake. It almost tastes like a fluffy vanilla cupcake.

Ease: Oh it can't get any easier. Simple ingredients, and no complex techniques involved. These ingredients are easily available in the kitchen as well.

Taste: This cake is sure to become an all-time favorite after the first taste. Moist cake brimming with pure vanilla flavor. An ultimate treat if you will!

Ingredients you will need:

I am sure all these ingredients are available in your pantry right now. So give yourself a 2-minute break and go have some cake. You don't even need a mixer to whip this one up!

All-Purpose Flour: All-purpose flour is the base of this cake. Any gluten free flour can be substituted too.

Baking Powder: Since we are making this cake without eggs, we will need around ½ a teaspoon of baking powder to leaven the cake.

Butter:I recommend using melted butter. Cool it down slightly before mixing with other ingredients.

Milk: I suggest whole milk for its higher fat content, but any type of milk will work. It's not necessary to use milk with dairy either. You can also use dairy free milk here.

Vanilla Extract:For the best vanilla flavor, use 100% pure vanilla extract in this cake. If you have those, you can also use a scraped vanilla bean or vanilla paste.

How to Make Mug Cake?

Making this Cake is a fun and easy process that only involves 4 simple steps. Here's how to do it:

• Combine dry ingredients: flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
• Add wet ingredients: Combine milk (at room temperature), vanilla extract, and melted butter. Mix until the batter becomes smooth.
• Microwave Time: Place the mug in the microwave and cook your cake on high power for about 2 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it rises and sets.
• Time to Enjoy: Let the cake cool for a moment, then enjoy it warm or transfer it to a plate. If desired, you can add toppings such as whipped cream or a sprinkling of powdered sugar.

Pro Tips for a sweet success:

• Don't overmix. While mixing wet and dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can result in a cake with a dense and tough texture.
• Use a microwave-safe mug: Make sure you use a microwave-safe mug that has enough room for the cake to rise during cooking.
• Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter cake, you can increase the amount of sugar slightly. On the contrary, if you like less sweets then you can reduce the amount of sugar.

How to serve it?

Consider serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a swirl of vanilla frosting.

To add even more flavor and visual appeal, you can sprinkle on some sprinkles or chocolate chips. For a fruity twist, top with fruit preserves and fresh fruit alongside fresh cream.

Oh and how can you forget Nutella! You can even add a scoop of it in the batter bright before cooking it. No need to fold it in the batter.

How to store this cake?

• Room Temperature: - Cover with plastic wrap if you want to store for 1 day. If you want to eat, put it back in the microwave and heat it for about 10-15 seconds or until it's warm.
• Refrigerate or Freeze: If you plan to store this cake for a short period of a day or two, you can refrigerate it.
• These cakes are best enjoyed fresh and cannot be stored for long.

My cake did not rise:

There is a strong possibility of making silly mistakes in haste. If your cake has not risen well. here are a few simple tips you can follow to ensure a soft, light and springy cake:

• Overmixing: Overmixing the batter can lead to gluten formation so mix the batter carefully. Avoid vigorous shaking or overmixing, as this may result in an unwanted gluey texture.
• Use fresh Leaveners: Make sure to replace your leaveners (baking powder and baking soda) from time to time. These leaveners solely contribute to the rise of cake. If they are stale, the cake is sure to bake like a brick!

My cake turned out rubbery:

This rubbery texture is usually the result of overcooking.

When we microwave a cake, it's easy to drag out the cooking time in hopes to enjoy the sweet treat soon. However, this can result in a rubbery cake. Additionally, using too much flour can also contribute to a not so pleasant cake crumb.

My cake is too wet and gooey:

Baking Time: Thesecakes don't require a long cooking time, but it is important to make sure the cake is cooked through. Measure the liquids carefully and adjust cooking times as the recipe suggests to avoid a soggy texture.

Mixing: Over-mixing the batter can lead to excessive gluten development, resulting in a dense and wet cake. Mix the ingredients until they are just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Mug size: The mug size can also contribute to the middle of the cake being too wet. Try using a smaller mug or adjust the cooking time accordingly to promote even cooking.

Under 30 Minutes Desserts that you will love:

Chocolate Chip Pancakes

Small Batch Brownies Recipe

If you liked this cake recipe, please give it a star review. I would really appreciate it. Also, tell me in the comments below, how did it turn out for you!

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