Go Back
To create a delightful Chocolate Espresso Mug Cake, you will need these simple ingredients: - 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour - 4 tablespoons granulated sugar - 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder - 1/8 teaspoon baking powder - 1/8 teaspoon salt - 3 tablespoons milk (or your preferred dairy alternative) - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1 tablespoon freshly brewed espresso (or strong coffee) - Optional toppings: chocolate chips, whipped cream, ice cream Each ingredient plays a key role in making the cake rich and tasty. The all-purpose flour gives structure, while sugar adds sweetness. Cocoa powder brings that deep chocolate flavor, and baking powder helps the cake rise. The salt balances the sweetness and enhances the cocoa taste. Milk or a dairy alternative adds moisture, while vegetable oil keeps it tender. Vanilla adds a lovely aroma, and espresso amps up the chocolate flavor. Feel free to add chocolate chips for extra gooeyness on top. You can also dress it up with whipped cream or ice cream. These toppings make the cake even more special. Enjoy each bite of your quick and easy dessert! {{ingredient_image_2}} 1. Grab a medium microwave-safe mug. 2. Mix the dry ingredients. In the mug, add: - 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour - 4 tablespoons granulated sugar - 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder - 1/8 teaspoon baking powder - 1/8 teaspoon salt 3. Use a fork or small whisk to mix well. This helps break up lumps. 4. Next, add the wet ingredients: - 3 tablespoons milk (or your choice) - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1 tablespoon freshly brewed espresso (or strong coffee) 5. Stir gently until the batter is smooth and all ingredients are mixed. 6. For a gooey center, fold in chocolate chips. Use 1 tablespoon or more, if you like. 1. Place the mug in the microwave. 2. Cook on high for about 1 minute and 30 seconds. 3. Check the mug cake after 1 minute. This avoids overflow. 4. The cake is done when it has risen and is set in the center. It may be soft. 1. Let the mug cake cool for about 1 minute. It will be hot! 2. For a special touch, add whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream. 3. Dust some cocoa powder on top for a nice look. Enjoy your treat! To get the best mug cake, you need to know your microwave. Most microwaves have different wattages. If yours is lower than 1000 watts, increase cooking time by 10-20 seconds. For higher wattages, check the cake sooner. Next, let’s talk about that gooey center. If you want a soft middle, mix in chocolate chips. This little trick adds a rich, melty surprise. Remember, the cake will set as it cools, so take it out when it still looks a bit soft. Not all mugs are created equal. I recommend using a standard ceramic mug. It should hold at least 12 ounces to prevent spills. Look for one that’s microwave-safe to avoid any mess. For mixing, keep it simple. A small whisk or a fork works great for blending the dry and wet ingredients. If you have a spatula, it can help scrape down the sides of the mug. With these tools, you’ll whip up your cake in no time! Pro Tips Perfecting the Espresso: Use freshly brewed espresso for the best flavor. If you don’t have an espresso maker, a strong coffee will work well too! Microwave Variability: Microwave wattages can differ significantly; always start checking your cake after 1 minute to avoid overcooking. Gooey Goodness: For an extra indulgent experience, add a few more chocolate chips to the batter for a melty center. Presentation Matters: Elevate your mug cake by serving it with whipped cream or ice cream, and adding a sprinkle of cocoa powder or chocolate shavings on top. {{image_4}} You can easily change the taste of your mug cake. Try using flavored coffee instead of regular espresso. Hazelnut or vanilla coffee adds a unique twist! You can also add spices for an extra kick. A pinch of cinnamon warms the cake, while a dash of chili powder gives it a fun heat. If you want a gluten-free treat, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Many brands work well in mug cakes. For those on a vegan diet, use plant-based milk and oil instead of dairy. You can also skip the eggs, as this recipe does not need them. These swaps let everyone enjoy this quick delight! After you enjoy your chocolate espresso mug cake, you may have some left. To store it, let the cake cool completely. This step stops the steam from making it soggy. Place the mug cake in an airtight container. You can keep it at room temperature for one day. If you want to save it longer, refrigerate it for up to three days. Yes, you can freeze it too! Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can stay in the freezer for about a month. Reheating your mug cake is easy and quick. To keep its texture, the microwave works best. Heat it for about 10 to 15 seconds. Check it to see if it's warm enough. If it feels dry, add a little milk before reheating. You can also use an oven if you prefer. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the mug cake on a baking tray and heat it for 5 to 10 minutes. This gives it a nice texture without making it tough. Enjoy your warm, chocolatey treat again! Can I make this mug cake in advance? You can make the batter ahead of time. Just mix the dry and wet ingredients separately. When you want to enjoy your mug cake, combine them and microwave. This way, you have a quick treat ready to go! What if I don’t have espresso? Can I substitute it? Yes! If you don’t have espresso, use strong coffee instead. The rich flavor will still shine. You can also try using instant coffee mixed with hot water for a quick fix. Caloric content and nutritional breakdown This mug cake has about 400 calories. It’s rich in sugar and fat, thanks to the sugar and oil. The cocoa adds some antioxidants, making it a sweet treat with a bit of goodness. Suggestions for healthier versions To make a lighter version, you can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. You can also cut the sugar in half or use a sugar substitute. For a vegan option, use a plant-based milk and oil. You now have all the tools to make a great mug cake. From the right ingredients to clear steps, you can enjoy this sweet treat anytime. Remember, it’s okay to add your twist with flavors or toppings. Whether you want it vegan or gluten-free, there are options for you. Store leftovers properly and reheat with care to keep that perfect texture. Enjoy your baking adventure and share your results with others. Happy mug cake making!

Decadent Chocolate Espresso Mug Cake

A rich and indulgent mug cake infused with chocolate and espresso, perfect for a quick dessert.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 1 minute
Total Time 6 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 1
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 4 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3 tablespoons milk (or your preferred dairy alternative)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon freshly brewed espresso (or strong coffee)
  • 1 tablespoon chocolate chips for topping (optional)

Instructions
 

  • In a medium-sized microwave-safe mug, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Mix thoroughly with a fork or small whisk to ensure there are no lumps in the dry ingredients.
  • Add the milk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and freshly brewed espresso to the mixture. Stir gently until the batter is completely smooth and all the ingredients are well incorporated.
  • If you love a gooey center, fold in a tablespoon of chocolate chips or more, depending on your preference.
  • Place the mug in the microwave and cook on high power for approximately 1 minute and 30 seconds. Keep an eye on it, as microwave wattages vary; check the mug cake after 1 minute to prevent overflow. The cake is done when it has risen and is set in the center but may still be a bit soft.
  • Allow the mug cake to cool for about 1 minute before digging in, as it will be quite hot!

Notes

For an extra indulgent treat, top your mug cake with whipped cream or ice cream.
Keyword chocolate, espresso, mug cake, quick dessert