Easy 5-Minute Chocolate Lava Mug Cake
A quick and easy microwave chocolate lava mug cake with a gooey molten center, perfect for a fast indulgent dessert.
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 minute 10 seconds
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour (about 30 grams)
- 4 tablespoons granulated sugar (50 grams)
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (about 10 grams)
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- a pinch of salt
- 3 tablespoons milk (whole or dairy-free alternatives like almond or oat milk)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter (unsalted butter preferred)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon chocolate piece or chocolate chips (about 15 grams)
Instructions
- In a microwave-safe mug or small bowl, combine 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 4 tablespoons sugar, 2 tablespoons cocoa powder, 1/4 teaspoon baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to blend evenly.
- Add 3 tablespoons milk, 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter, and 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until smooth and pourable, about 1-2 minutes.
- Drop 1 tablespoon of chocolate chips or a small piece of chocolate into the center of the batter without stirring.
- Microwave on high power for 60 to 70 seconds. The edges should be set and the center slightly soft but not liquidy. Add 5-10 second bursts if undercooked, watching carefully.
- Let the mug cake rest for about 1 minute to finish cooking and thicken the lava center.
- Enjoy warm, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream or powdered sugar.
Notes
Do not stir after adding the chocolate piece to preserve the lava center. Microwave times vary; start with 60 seconds and add time in short bursts if needed. Use fresh baking powder for best texture. Avoid overcooking to prevent rubbery cake. Use a wide mug for even cooking and do not fill more than halfway to avoid overflow.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: One 12-ounce mug cak
- Calories: 365
- Sugar: 30
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 19
- Saturated Fat: 6
- Carbohydrates: 48
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 4.5
Keywords: chocolate lava cake, mug cake, quick dessert, microwave cake, easy chocolate cake, single serving dessert