This easy and healthy Hot Chocolate Mug Cake is about to redefine your dessert game. Perfect for those moments when sweet cravings strike or you’re in the mood for a quick treat, this single-serving mug cake is a delightful balance of rich chocolatey goodness, melty marshmallows and wholesome ingredients.
With a handful of pantry staples, a mug, and a microwave, you can effortlessly whip up a moist, decadent hot chocolate mug cake that nourishes your soul and body. If you’re looking for a healthy mug cake recipe, a vegan mug cake recipe, or even just a simple but delicious one, you’ve come to the right place!
What is a mug cake?
Mug cakes have become a beloved solution for those spontaneous sweet cravings, offering a quick and effortless route to indulgence. The beauty of mug cakes lies in their simplicity; a handful of basic ingredients, a mug, and a microwave are all it takes to conjure up a warm and satisfying treat. These single-serving wonders come together in minutes, making them an ideal option when a dessert craving strikes unexpectedly. The process involves whisking the ingredients directly into the mug, popping it into the microwave, and voilà—a delicious, freshly baked cake emerges, ready to be enjoyed straight from the mug.
My mug cake recipes are also healthy! They’re made with simple, nourishing ingredients, but they still taste exactly like cake, and they will undoubtedly satisfy your cravings while also nourishing your body. You might also enjoy my Chocolate Chip Mug Cake, Carrot Cake in a Mug, or Apple Mug Cake Recipes!
Hot chocolate mug cake ingredients
All my mug cakes start with the same ingredient base (see below for substitutions):
Flour: I use whole wheat flour because it contains more nutrients, protein, and fibre than refined white flour.
Sugar: I use coconut sugar to keep this mug cake refined sugar-free.
Baking Powder: The raising agent makes the mug cake nice and fluffy.
Salt: Always, ALWAYS, add a pinch of salt to anything sweet as it enhances the flavours.
Oil: While making this mug cake oil-free is possible, I prefer it with oil as it turns out to be more moist and decadent. I use extra virgin olive oil, which has many health benefits.
Milk: To bring the cake batter to the right consistency, milk will do the trick.
Chocolate Chips: You will obviously need some chocolate chips! I recommend dark chocolate chips as they are rich in antioxidants and can improve heart health. To keep this mug cake refined sugar-free, make sure to use chocolate that is refined sugar-free like this one.
Marshmallows: It’s not hot chocolate without marshmallows! Mini Marshmallows work best here, but you can use bigger ones; just cut them into smaller pieces with scissors.
Ingredient Substitutions
Flour: This recipe is so forgiving and versatile; you can use any of these flours – Plain White Flour, Plain Wholemeal, Gluten-free Blend, Oat Flour, or Spelt Flour.
Sugar: Any sugar or sweetener will work. You can use liquid sweetener, but reduce the amount of milk you add by 1 tbsp.
Oil: You can use any liquid oil or even melted butter. You can also make a mug cake with no oil by just omitting the oil and adding extra milk; however, the texture will be less moist.
Milk: You can use any milk – cow’s milk or even plant milk to make a dairy-free or vegan mug cake. You can use water – I do this often if I’m running low on milk.
Marshmallows: I don’t have any substitution ideas here because they’re pretty crucial – without them, this would be a basic chocolate mug cake. But if you are vegan, make sure to find vegan marshmallows.
ingredient variations
Coffee Infusion: Add a teaspoon of instant coffee to the batter to create a mocha hot chocolate mug cake, offering a sophisticated twist for coffee lovers.
Whipped Cream Topping: Once cooked, let the cake cool briefly, then top with whipped cream and vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast to the warm cake.
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts on top before microwaving for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
Holiday Spice: Mix a pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin spice into your hot chocolate mix for a festive holiday version of this mug cake.
Chocolate Caramel Drizzle: After cooking, drizzle caramel sauce and chocolate syrup over the top for a sweet and salty finish.
How to make hot chocolate mug cake
The process is super easy –
- Add all ingredients (not chocolate chips or marshmallows) to a bowl and combine.
- Transfer the mixture into a microwaveable mug.
- Add chocolate chips and marshmallows on top.
- Microwave for 1-2 minutes (see notes).
Hot Coca Mug Cake FAQs
What mug should I use for my mug cake?
The right mug is crucial for making a hot cocoa mug cake or any mug cake. Choose a microwave-safe mug large enough to accommodate the cake as it rises during cooking. A mug with a capacity of at least 12 to 16 ounces (350 to 475 ml) is ideal. This size ensures enough space for the cake to expand without spilling over. The mug should be made of a material that can safely be used in the microwave, such as ceramic or glass. Avoid mugs with metallic paint or decorations, as these are not microwave-safe and can cause sparks. Always check the bottom of the mug for a label indicating it is microwave-safe to ensure your safety and the best results for your cake.
Can I make a mug cake with hot chocolate mix or hot cocoa mix?
Yes, you can make a mug cake with either hot chocolate or hot cocoa mix! Here is what you need: 4 tablespoons of hot chocolate mix or hot cocoa mix, 1 large egg, 2 tablespoons of milk, and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Follow the same instructions as if you were making your cake from scratch.
How can I elevate my hot cocoa mug cake?
To elevate your hot cocoa mug cake, add whipped cream, mini marshmallows, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and chocolate sauce – yum!
How to store a mug cake?
Generally, mug cakes are made right when you want them, but if you want to prepare a hot cocoa mug cake ahead of time, you can do that! Make the recipe as instructed, and then leave it to cool completely. Wrap it in plastic wrap or an airtight container and leave it in the fridge until you want to eat it. You can eat it cold or reheat it in the microwave for 30 seconds.
Why did my mug cake turn out rubbery?
A rubbery hot cocoa mug cake can result from overmixing the batter or cooking it too long. Mixing should be done just until the wet and dry ingredients are combined. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour too much, leading to a tough texture. Cooking times can vary in the microwave, so starting with a shorter duration is crucial, and adding more time as needed. For a moist and fluffy texture, microwave in short bursts and check the consistency.
Why do my mug cakes never work?
If your mug cakes never seem to work out, it might be due to a few common mistakes. Ensure you’re using a microwave-safe mug and that your baking powder is fresh since it’s crucial for the cake to rise. Pay attention to the microwave time; it varies based on the microwave’s wattage and the cake’s ingredients. Experiment with cooking times, starting lower and adding time as needed. Also, make sure your measurements are precise, as too much or too little of any ingredient can affect the outcome.
How long to microwave milk in a mug for hot chocolate?
To warm milk for a hot chocolate mug, pour your desired amount of milk into a microwave-safe mug. Microwave on high for about 60-90 seconds. Stir every 30 seconds to ensure the milk heats evenly. Be careful not to overheat, as milk can boil over quickly. Adjust the timing based on your microwave’s power and the amount of milk. This warm milk can then be mixed with hot cocoa mix or chocolate sauce for a delicious hot chocolate.
Are microwaves bad for you?
I get a lot of comments about microwaves being bad for you, and while I understand why you could have that concern, I don’t share that concern. I won’t go into detail, but here is a helpful blog post about microwave cooking and nutrition that you can read and make your decision.
Hot cocoa mug cake conclusion
In conclusion, this hot cocoa mug cake recipe is a quick and satisfying way to enjoy a dessert without the fuss. Perfect for those craving something sweet and chocolatey, it’s an easy treat that anyone can make in minutes. Give it a try and enjoy this delicious hot chocolate mug cake!
More Healthy Mug Cake Recipes
- Chocolate Chip Mug Cake (Easy & Healthy Recipe)
- Healthy Apple Cake in a Mug
- Easy and Healthy Pancake in a Mug
- Cookie in a Mug
- Healthy Carrot Cake in a Mug
Hey! If you make this recipe, I would love it if you could leave me some feedback and a rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ in the comment section at the bottom of the page! Also let me know on Facebook, Instagram or Pinterest! I can’t wait to hear your thoughts and see your photos!
Hot Chocolate Mug Cake Recipe
Equipment
- Mug
Ingredients
- 30 g Whole Wheat Plain Flour 1/4 cup
- 1/2 tsp Baking Powder
- 10 g Coconut Sugar 1 tbsp
- Pinch of Salt
- 6 g Cocoa Powder 1 tbsp
- 10 g Olive Oil 1 tbsp
- 45 g Milk 3 tbsp
- 10 g Chocolate Chips
- Mini Marshmallows measure with your heart
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a bowl (not chocolate chips or marshmallows) and mix to combine.
- Transfer the mixture into a microwaveable mug.
- Add chocolate chips and marshmallows on top.
- Microwave for 1-2 minutes (see notes).
This recipe is absolutely delicious and the cake texture turns out so good. Just follow the instructions and you won’t be disappointed.
Thanks Niki 🙂