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butterscotch mug cake served with melting ice cream and spoon

Butterscotch Mug Cake – Quick, Gooey, and Microwave-Ready

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  • Author: Emma Brookstone
  • Prep Time: 2 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 minute
  • Total Time: 3 minutes
  • Yield: 1 mug cake 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Microwave
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This gooey butterscotch mug cake is sweet, rich, and ready in under 5 minutes. A quick microwave dessert made with pantry staples like brown sugar and butter—perfect for weeknight cravings or late-night treats.


Ingredients

Scale

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 tablespoons milk

3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1/8 teaspoon baking powder

Pinch of salt

Optional: chocolate chips, chopped pecans, or a caramel drizzle


Instructions

1. In a standard-size microwave-safe mug, melt the butter (about 20–25 seconds).

2. Stir in the brown sugar and vanilla until smooth.

3. Add the milk and mix well.

4. Add flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir gently until fully combined, but don’t overmix.

5. Microwave on high for 45–55 seconds. The center should look set but slightly glossy.

6. Let cool for 1–2 minutes before eating. Add toppings if desired.


Notes

Use a wide, microwave-safe mug (10–12 oz) for even cooking.

Don’t overcook—the cake continues to firm up after microwaving.

Customize with your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or a peanut butter swirl.

If you only have white sugar, mix it with a bit of molasses to mimic brown sugar.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 mug cake
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 23g
  • Sodium: 120mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 41g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg