This gooey chocolate mug cake for one is studded with chocolate chips, made with pantry-staple ingredients and takes just seconds to cook in the microwave.
Recipe originally posted Sep 7, 2016. Content and photos updated on Feb 5, 2020.
This microwave chocolate mug cake is the perfect healthier weeknight indulgence.
I love lemon. And vanilla. But there are nights when all I want is a gooey chocolate dessert.
Now don’t get me wrong, I’m always down to dig into a decadent lava cake at a restaurant.
But for those nights when you just want something simple to make and on the healthier side, you’re going to be happy to have this gooey chocolate mug cake for one recipe up your sleeve.
Here’s why I love it:
Just the right amount of sweet.
Ready in less than 1 minute.
Only 210 calories yet still so gooey and indulgent-tasting.
Further proves that almost everything is better in a mug (or bowl).
How to make a gooey chocolate mug cake for one
The hardest part of making this healthy microwave chocolate mug cake is measuring everything out.
So as long as you have a few measuring spoons, a microwavable mug or bowl, and a microwave, then you’re good-to go!
Ingredients needed:
Flour: I usually use all-purpose to keep the texture nice and light, but for a little extra nutrition boost you could also use white whole wheat or spelt flours. I have not tried it using gluten-free flour alternatives.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: I used a natural (rather than Dutch-processed) cocoa powder, but either should work — this one is my favorite. You can read more about the differences here.
Salt: Just a dash of salt is needed to help balance out the bitterness of the cocoa powder. However, make sure it really is just a pinch – I’ve added a bit too much lately and it was not good.
Baking powder: This will help it rise. I haven’t tried making this gooey chocolate mug cake without it.
Sugar: I’m a fan of using the real thing, so I usually use cane sugar, but brown sugar will also work. I haven’t tried any sugar alternatives, but if you do let me know how it turns out.
Almond or oat milk: really any unsweetened milk will work! While I have a slight preference for unsweetened vanilla almond milk, I’ve also loved the result when using unsweetened oat milk too. Just keep in mind that soy and coconut may change the flavor slightly.
Greek yogurt: Unsweetened Greek yogurt is my secret to making this healthy chocolate mug cake without any oil or butter. Do not leave it out!If you’re wanting to make this vegan, you can use a plant-based yogurt alternative.
Dark chocolate chips: I prefer to use mini dark chocolate chips when I can find them as they disperse a bit better, but bigger chips will work too. For a vegan option, make sure to use a dairy-free, vegan chocolate chip like Enjoy Life’s dark chocolate ones.
Tips for making a gooey chocolate mug cake in the microwave
As I’ve made quite a few of these, I’ve discovered a few key tips for successfully making a gooey chocolate mug cake in the microwave:
Use a butter knife to stir it all together. As I discovered with making overnight oats, a butter knife tends to help mix everything together a bit better than a spoon. Trust me, there’s nothing worse than expecting gooey chocolatey goodness and getting flour instead.
You don’t have to use a mug. As long as it’s microwavable, feel free to use a mug, bowl, or even a paper cup.
The batter should only fill your mug half way. To avoid a mess in your microwave, make sure to only fill your mug half way.
Err on the shorter cooking side. How long your healthy chocolate mug cake will take to cook depends on the size of mug you use and your microwave. I recommend starting at 30 seconds and then cooking at 10 second intervals after that until the top is just slightly set.
Also keep in mind that once you take it out of the microwave, your chocolate mug cake will start to sink. While not quite as pretty, it’ll still be wonderfully gooey and delicious.
Topping ideas for this gooey chocolate mug cake for one
I usually eat mine as-is, but when I’m feeling fancy I’ll sometimes add a few toppings such as:
Vanilla ice cream or frozen yogurt.
Fresh raspberries.
Frozen strawberries that have been heated up in the microwave.
Love mug cakes as much as I do? Then you’re going to want a few flavor options to choose from. Here are some of my go-to healthy microwave mug cake recipes:
This gooey chocolate mug cake for one is studded with chocolate chips, made with pantry-staple ingredients and takes just seconds to cook in the microwave.
1Tablespoondark or mini chocolate chips(vegan if needed)
Instructions
Combine all dry ingredients in a microwave-safe mug.
Stir in milk and greek yogurt until completely combined. Sprinkle chocolate chips on top.
Place mug in microwave for 30-40 seconds (I find 30 seconds is perfect for my microwave).
Dig in and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition for whole recipe: 210 calories, 5 g fat (3 g saturated), 37 g carbohydrate, 3 g fiber, 12 g sugar, 6 g proteinAdapted from Chocolate Covered Katie
So easy and SO good! I added vanilla extract and used stevia and a touch of honey, plus sprinkles. Perfect dessert for breakfast with my coffee!!
The Healthy Toast2 years ago
Love the addition of sprinkles! So glad you’re enjoying the recipe Aarti!
Valerie2 years ago
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This is absolutely perfect for my house! My oldest loves ooey gooey chocolate things and is not a fan of waiting for things to bake.
The Healthy Toast2 years ago
My husband is the same way 😉 Hope you guys enjoy!
Nathan2 years ago
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I am a HUGE proponent for personal mug cakes, and I’ve been trying to find the perfect recipe. I’ll definitely be trying this out, it definitely looks like a contender!
The Healthy Toast2 years ago
Definitely do and let me know how it turns out for you!
Alina2 years ago
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This is such a cozy treat for cold days! I can’t resist it.
The Healthy Toast2 years ago
Right? So glad you like it Alina!
Chris Collins2 years ago
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What a nifty recipe! I can see me making this over and over again 🙂
The Healthy Toast2 years ago
Thanks Chris! It’s a staple in our house for sure as it’s just so quick and easy.
Beth2 years ago
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This looks so delicious and yummy! I can’t wait to make this!
The Healthy Toast2 years ago
Thanks Beth, I hope you enjoy!
Heather6 years ago
This looks so amazing. I can’t wait to try this out tonight after work!
The Healthy Toast6 years ago
Thanks Heather! I hope you liked it!!
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