How to Make the Best-Ever Vanilla Mug Cake in 5 Minutes or Less

What if I told you that you could have a delicious vanilla cake in less than 5 minutes?

By now, I’m sure you’ve heard of mug cakes. They’re having a moment right now, partially thanks to Pinterest. Once the world started finding out about making single-serve cakes in mere minutes, the popularity of these mug cakes really took off.

Even box cake companies have picked up on it. You can find pre-made mug cake mix on grocery store shelves these days.

But let me tell you, nothing ever beats a scratch-made cake — even when it comes to the microwave.

Treat Yourself, or Let Your Kids Make Their Own Dessert Safely

These single-serve cakes are perfect for when you really want to treat yourself, without having to spend forever baking an actual cake. Besides, save for special events, I rarely need a whole cake. We eat a few slices, and the rest of the cake winds up stale.

Plus, mug cakes are so easy that even young kids can get involved. My 4-year-old is always desperate to bake sweets, and this way, there is no hot oven to make me nervous.

It’s easy to over-mix since it’s so small, but I promise this quick and easy batter only needs to be mixed until just combined. Otherwise, you’ll end up with a tough cake.

In a similar fashion, don’t over microwave, either. The trick with mug cakes is to stop cooking earlier than you probably think you should. You want it to be warm and soft inside. Plus, it’ll continue to cook as it cools.

Just remember to use a microwavable mug, which means no metal or metallic paint. You can also use a large ramekin, as long as it holds 8 to 12 ounces like a standard coffee mug.

The sprinkles are optional, of course — but highly encouraged.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons of sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
• 4 tablespoons of milk
• 2 tablespoons of butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• Dash of salt (approx. 1/8 teaspoon)
• 2 teaspoons of rainbow sprinkles

Instructions

1. In a microwave-safe mug, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Stir in the milk, butter, vanilla extract, and sprinkles until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix the batter.
3. Microwave for 60 to 90 seconds, or until cake is just set but still a little shiny on top. You want it to still be soft on the inside, and the cake will continue to cook as it cools.
4. Allow the mug to rest in the microwave for 1 minute before carefully using the mug handle to remove from the microwave.
5. Serve warm, topped with frosting or ice cream. You can add more sprinkles on top, or try adding fresh fruit!

All microwaves are different, so it’s difficult to give a precise cook time. Start with 60 seconds, and add an additional 15-30 seconds if needed.