Craving cake but don't want to bake an entire one? This 2-minute microwave mug cake is the answer. Better yet, you can choose between two delicious versions: a soft lemon and yogurt mug cake or a rich hazelnut mug cake topped with creamy spread and crunchy hazelnuts.
Both recipes are mixed directly in a mug and cooked in the microwave, so there are no cake pans, mixing bowls, or long baking times to worry about.
The lemon version is light and fragrant, while the hazelnut version is richer and more indulgent. They're perfect when you want a quick single-serve dessert without turning on the oven.
What Is a Microwave Mug Cake?
A mug cake is a small, single-serving cake that's mixed and cooked directly in a microwave-safe mug instead of being baked in a conventional cake pan.
Microwaves cook batter very quickly, which is why mug cakes can be ready in only a couple of minutes. The resulting texture can be slightly different from an oven-baked cake, but when the proportions and cooking time are right, the crumb remains soft and tender.
This recipe gives you two variations. The first uses yogurt, sunflower oil, and lemon zest, while the second combines hazelnut spread and yogurt for a richer dessert.
Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe
Speed is the biggest advantage. Mix the ingredients, microwave the batter for about 2 minutes, and dessert is ready.
You also get two completely different flavors from the same easy cooking technique. The yogurt mug cake has a delicate lemon aroma and soft texture, while hazelnut spread transforms the second version into a rich, chocolatey treat.
And because each cake is made directly in its serving mug, cleanup is minimal.
Tips for the Perfect Mug Cake
- Choose a large microwave-safe mug and leave plenty of room at the top because the cake will rise during cooking.
- Mix the batter thoroughly, especially around the bottom and edges of the mug, so no pockets of flour remain.
- Microwave power varies considerably.
- Start checking the cake before adding extra cooking time to avoid a dry, rubbery texture.
- Let the mug cake cool briefly before eating—the mug and the center of the cake can be very hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does a Mug Cake Take in the Microwave?
These mug cakes take approximately 2 minutes at full power, but the exact time depends on your microwave's wattage and the size and shape of your mug.
What Size Mug Should I Use?
Use a large microwave-safe mug with enough empty space for the batter to rise without overflowing. Avoid filling a mug close to the rim.
Why Is My Mug Cake Rubbery?
Overcooking is one of the most common causes. Microwaves vary significantly in power, and even a short amount of extra cooking can dry out a small cake quickly.
Can I Make a Mug Cake Without an Oven?
Yes—that's exactly the appeal of this recipe. Both versions cook entirely in the microwave, so no conventional oven is required.
Can I Replace the Plain Yogurt?
Another plain, thick yogurt can generally be used, although differences in consistency and fat content may slightly change the texture of the finished cake.
Which Mug Cake Flavor Should I Make?
Choose the lemon yogurt mug cake if you want something simple and fragrant. For a richer dessert, the hazelnut mug cake combines hazelnut spread with a soft cake base and an extra creamy topping.
How to Store
Mug cakes are designed to be eaten shortly after cooking, when they're at their softest.
If you do have leftovers, cover the mug once the cake has cooled and refrigerate it for up to 1 day. Keep in mind that refrigeration and reheating can make a microwave cake drier, so freshly made is definitely best.
How to Freeze
Freezing isn't recommended for these mug cakes. They're small, take only a few minutes to prepare, and have their best texture immediately after microwaving.
For the softest result, mix and cook a fresh mug cake whenever you want one rather than preparing it for the freezer.
Ingredients
How to make 2-Minute Microwave Mug Cake
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For the lemon yogurt mug cake, crack the egg directly into a large microwave-safe mug.
For the lemon yogurt mug cake, crack the egg directly into a large microwave-safe mug.
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Add the granulated sugar and mix thoroughly with a fork until combined. Stir in the sunflower oil and plain yogurt. Add the all-purpose flour and baking powder, then mix until the batter is smooth and no visible lumps of flour remain. Grate in fresh lemon zest according to taste and give the batter one final stir.
Add the granulated sugar and mix thoroughly with a fork until combined. Stir in the sunflower oil and plain yogurt. Add the all-purpose flour and baking powder, then mix until the batter is smooth and no visible lumps of flour remain. Grate in fresh lemon zest according to taste and give the batter one final stir.
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Place the mug in the microwave and cook at full power for approximately 2 minutes.
Place the mug in the microwave and cook at full power for approximately 2 minutes.
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Since microwave wattage varies, watch the cake closely toward the end and stop cooking once it has risen and the center is set.
Since microwave wattage varies, watch the cake closely toward the end and stop cooking once it has risen and the center is set.
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Let the lemon yogurt mug cake cool briefly, then finish it with a light dusting of powdered sugar.
Let the lemon yogurt mug cake cool briefly, then finish it with a light dusting of powdered sugar.
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For the hazelnut mug cake, crack the egg into another large microwave-safe mug and add the hazelnut spread. Mix until smooth and well combined.
For the hazelnut mug cake, crack the egg into another large microwave-safe mug and add the hazelnut spread. Mix until smooth and well combined.
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Add the plain yogurt, flour, and baking powder. Stir thoroughly, making sure to reach the bottom of the mug, until you have a smooth, homogeneous batter.
Add the plain yogurt, flour, and baking powder. Stir thoroughly, making sure to reach the bottom of the mug, until you have a smooth, homogeneous batter.
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Microwave at full power for approximately 2 minutes, adjusting the time if necessary according to the wattage of your microwave.
Microwave at full power for approximately 2 minutes, adjusting the time if necessary according to the wattage of your microwave.
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Allow the cake to cool slightly before decorating it with an extra spoonful of hazelnut spread and a sprinkle of chopped hazelnuts.
Allow the cake to cool slightly before decorating it with an extra spoonful of hazelnut spread and a sprinkle of chopped hazelnuts.
Serve either microwave mug cake warm for an easy single-serving dessert made in just minutes.
Serve either microwave mug cake warm for an easy single-serving dessert made in just minutes.
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