Can you bake a cake in a coffee mug?

Absolutely! You can definitely bake a cake in a coffee mug using your microwave. The key is choosing microwave-safe ceramic or glass mugs that can withstand high temperatures. Additionally, the microwave method actually creates incredibly moist results because steam doesn't escape like it does in traditional oven baking. However, make sure your mug is large enough – at least 12 ounces – to prevent overflow as the cake rises during cooking.

What are the ingredients in the 3 ingredient mug cake?

The simplest 3-ingredient mug cake typically contains self-rising flour, milk, and Nutella or peanut butter. However, for coffee cake in a mug, a basic version uses flour, brown sugar, and melted butter, though adding an egg and cinnamon significantly improves texture and flavor. Moreover, while 3-ingredient versions work in a pinch, adding vanilla extract and a pinch of salt creates much more satisfying results with minimal extra effort.

Why is mug cake chewy?

Mug cake becomes chewy when the batter is overmixed, which develops too much gluten in the flour. Furthermore, using too much flour or cooking at too high power settings can create dense, rubbery textures. Additionally, overcooking continues to toughen the cake even after removing it from the microwave. To prevent chewiness, mix ingredients just until combined, use proper flour ratios, and cook at 70% power rather than full power.

Why did my mug cake turn out rubbery?

Rubbery mug cake typically results from overcooking or using too high microwave power settings. The rapid heating at full power can cause proteins to tighten too quickly, creating that unpleasant rubbery texture. Moreover, continuing to cook after the cake appears done leads to moisture loss and toughening. To fix this, reduce power to 60-70%, cook in shorter intervals, and remember that the cake continues cooking from residual heat even after microwaving stops.

Coffee Cake in a Mug: 5 Secret Tips for Perfect Results

Description

Warm, comforting coffee cake with cinnamon crumb topping, made entirely in the microwave in just 90 seconds. Perfect single-serving dessert that delivers bakery-quality results anytime you’re craving something sweet and cozy.

Ingredients

Scale

3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/8 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon melted butter

1 large egg

2 tablespoons milk

1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 tablespoon flour (for crumb topping)

1 tablespoon brown sugar (for crumb topping)

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (for crumb topping)

1 tablespoon cold butter, cubed (for crumb topping)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. In a microwave-safe mug (at least 12 ounces), whisk together flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt until well combined

2. In a small bowl, mix melted butter, egg, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth

3. Pour wet ingredients into the mug and stir just until combined – don’t overmix the batter

4. For crumb topping, mix flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl, then cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs

5. Sprinkle crumb topping evenly over batter in mug

6. Microwave at 70% power for 60-90 seconds until a toothpick inserted in center comes out with just a few moist crumbs

7. Let cool for 30 seconds before enjoying – the mug will be hot

Notes

Use a mug that’s at least 12 ounces to prevent overflow during cooking

All ingredients should be at room temperature for best mixing results

Don’t skip the crumb topping – it’s what makes this coffee cake truly special

Cooking time may vary based on your microwave’s wattage – start with 60 seconds and add more time if needed

Let the cake rest for 30 seconds after microwaving as it continues to cook from residual heat

For extra indulgence, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1
Calories: 285
Sugar: 18
Sodium: 165
Fat: 14
Saturated Fat: 8
Unsaturated Fat: 4
Trans Fat: 0
Carbohydrates: 35
Fiber: 2
Protein: 6
Cholesterol: 55