Quick & Easy 3-Ingredient Mug Cake

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When you need a warm, comforting dessert fast, this 3-Ingredient Mug Cake delivers instant satisfaction. Made with simple pantry staples and cooked in the microwave, it’s the perfect single-serve treat for late-night cravings, after-school snacks, or whenever you want something sweet without the hassle of baking an entire cake. Light, fluffy, and endlessly customizable, this classic mug cake is proof that dessert doesn’t need to be complicated to be delicious.

Ingredients

• 4 tbsp all-purpose flour, sifted
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 4–5 tbsp milk (any dairy or plant-based milk works)
• Optional: ¼ tsp vanilla extract for extra flavor

Instructions

1. Prepare the Mug

Use a microwave-safe mug that holds at least 12 oz. Lightly grease the inside with a quick spray of oil or a thin coating of butter for easy cleanup.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

Add the flour and sugar directly into the mug. Stir with a fork until the mixture looks evenly combined with no clumps.

3. Add the Milk

Pour in the milk and mix until the batter becomes smooth and slightly thick.
(If using vanilla extract, add it now.)

4. Microwave

Heat on high for 60–90 seconds.
Microwaves vary, so start checking at 60 seconds. The cake should rise and look set at the top but still soft.

5. Cool Slightly & Enjoy

Let your mug cake rest for 20–30 seconds before eating. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.

Pro Tips

• Use a wider mug for more even cooking.
• Avoid overmixing—stop as soon as the batter is smooth.
• If the cake feels dry, add 1–2 tsp extra milk next time.
• For a softer center, undercook by 5–10 seconds.
• Add a small ½ tsp butter in the center before microwaving for extra moisture.

Why This Recipe Works

• Only three everyday ingredients needed
• Ready in under 5 minutes
• Great for kids, beginners, or busy cooks
• No eggs or special tools required
• Perfect portion size—no leftovers, no waste

Substitutions & Variations

Flavor Ideas

• Vanilla Mug Cake: Add ½ tsp vanilla extract for a classic flavor.
• Cinnamon: Add a pinch of cinnamon for warmth.
• Lemon: Mix in ½ tsp lemon zest.

Diet-Friendly Options

• Dairy-Free: Use almond, oat, or soy milk.
• Gluten-Free: Swap flour for a 1:1 gluten-free blend.
• Low-Sugar: Replace sugar with a spoonful of applesauce or a sugar substitute.

Fun Add-Ins

• 1 tsp jam in the center
• A sprinkle of mini marshmallows
• A swirl of peanut butter

Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Guide

• Dry Mix Prep: Combine flour + sugar in small containers or jars for instant mug cake mixes.
• Storage: Best eaten fresh. If needed, refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
• Reheat: Microwave for 10–12 seconds until warm.
• Freezing: Not recommended—texture becomes dense.

Serving Ideas

Serve your mug cake with:

• Whipped cream
• A drizzle of honey or chocolate syrup
• Fresh berries
• A dusting of powdered sugar
• Ice cream for a warm-and-cold dessert combo

Nutrition (Per Serving Estimate)

Approximate values:

• Calories: 145
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Calcium: 45mg
• Iron: 1mg

(Nutrition will vary based on milk type and optional add-ins.)

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this without milk?

Yes! You can use water, but the cake will be less rich. For better results, use a plant-based milk alternative.

2. Why didn’t my mug cake rise?

Your mug may be too small, or the batter may have been overmixed. Add ¼ tsp baking powder for extra fluffiness.

3. How do I make it fluffier?

Add a pinch of baking powder for a lighter, sponge-like texture.

4. Can I double the recipe?

Yes—use a large mug or divide between two mugs and microwave separately.

This 3-Ingredient Mug Cake is the ultimate quick dessert—simple, comforting, and endlessly customizable. Whether you enjoy it plain or upgrade it with fun toppings, it’s the perfect treat when you want something sweet with zero effort.

Easy 3-Ingredient Mug Cake

Make this soft and fluffy 3-ingredient mug cake in minutes using simple pantry staples. The perfect quick dessert for any craving.

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Prep Time 2 minutes mins

Cook Time 2 minutes mins

Total Time 4 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 1

Calories 145 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 4 tbsp all-purpose flour, sifted
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 4-5 tbsp milk (any dairy or plant-based milk works)
• Optional: ¼ tsp vanilla extract for extra flavor

Instructions

 

• Prepare the Mug

  Use a microwave-safe mug that holds at least 12 oz. Lightly grease the inside with a quick spray of oil or a thin coating of butter for easy cleanup.
• Mix the Dry Ingredients

  Add the flour and sugar directly into the mug. Stir with a fork until the mixture looks evenly combined with no clumps.
• Add the Milk

  Pour in the milk and mix until the batter becomes smooth and slightly thick.(If using vanilla extract, add it now.)
• Microwave

  Heat on high for 60–90 seconds.

  Microwaves vary, so start checking at 60 seconds. The cake should rise and look set at the top but still soft.
• Cool Slightly & Enjoy

  Let your mug cake rest for 20–30 seconds before eating. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.

Notes

• Microwaves vary greatly—adjust cooking time in 10-second intervals.
• The cake will continue to cook after removing from the microwave.
• Best enjoyed warm for the softest texture.

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