What does mug cake mean?

A mug cake is exactly what it sounds like: a single-serving cake mixed and microwaved in a coffee mug. No oven, no pans, and no special tools needed. A birthday mug cake version includes festive touches like sprinkles and vanilla extract to capture that celebratory vibe.

How to make mug cake more moist?

Use only the egg yolk—not the whole egg—and opt for whole milk instead of skim. You can also add a spoonful of yogurt or sour cream to boost softness. Avoid overcooking, and let the cake rest for 30–60 seconds to let moisture redistribute.

Are mug cakes okay to eat?

Yes! As long as your ingredients are safe and the egg is fully cooked, a birthday mug cake is totally safe to eat. Stick to food-safe mugs and microwave-safe materials. If in doubt, cook it a little longer in short bursts.

Why do my mug cakes never work?

Chances are it's one of three issues: overcooking, wrong mug size, or too much leavening. Stick with a 12-ounce mug, avoid overmixing, and cook in short intervals after 45 seconds. Try a tested base recipe like the one in this cookie mug recipe for better results. A birthday mug cake is a simple pleasure—but like any recipe, a few small changes make a big difference. With these fixes, you’ll be ready to celebrate, no matter the day or time.

Birthday Mug Cake Recipe – 1 Easy Fix for Moist Results!

Name: Birthday Mug Cake
Prep time: 2 min
Cook time: 1 min
Total time: 3 min
Yield: 1 mug cake
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Land O Lakes® Butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1 large Land O Lakes® Egg (yolk only); 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 tablespoon 2% or whole milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon decorator sprinkles

Description

A soft, fluffy birthday mug cake with sprinkles, made in minutes using pantry staples and your microwave.

Ingredients

Scale

2 tablespoons Land O Lakes® Butter

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1 large Land O Lakes® Egg (yolk only)

2 tablespoons sugar

1 tablespoon 2% or whole milk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon decorator sprinkles

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Instructions

1. Place butter into 12-ounce coffee mug; microwave 30-45 seconds or until melted. Add all remaining cake ingredients except sprinkles; mix well with fork. Stir in sprinkles.

2. Microwave 45-60 seconds or until cake pulls away from side and top is dry. (Do not overcook.) Cool 1 minute. Top with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, as desired. Serve warm.

Notes

Only use the egg yolk—not the whole egg—for a softer texture.

Try adding a spoonful of yogurt or sour cream for extra moisture.

Top with ice cream, whipped cream, or extra sprinkles for a festive touch.

Prep Time: 2 minutes
Cook Time: 1 minute
Category: Microwave Mug Cake
Method: Microwave
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 mug
Calories: 310
Sugar: 19g
Sodium: 140mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 0.5g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 135mg