This Cake-in-a-Mug made from boxed cake mix is simple and fast — more like kitchen magic than a recipe. With just three pantry-stable ingredients you can prepare a single-serving microwave cake in a mug in about one minute. The result is a light, fluffy dessert ready whenever a craving strikes.
Why you’ll love this recipe
- All ingredients are shelf-stable and commonly found in the pantry.
- Boxed cake mix comes in many flavors, so you can easily change the taste of each mug cake.
- Customize each mug cake with your favorite add-ins and toppings.
- Ready in about one minute, this is a quick dessert for sudden sweet cravings.
These mug cake recipes stand out because they rely on shelf-stable ingredients. That makes them ideal for care packages or keeping on the kitchen shelf for a fast, single-serving treat anytime.
Microwave mug cakes are especially practical for college students and deployed service members who have access to a microwave. Many suggested add-ins are safe to include in mailed care packages, even to warm or remote locations.
Ingredients
Instructions
This section gives an overview of the steps. Complete instructions appear in the recipe card below.
- Label a gallon-size zip-top bag with the mix name and the simple 3-2-1 directions.
- Combine one package of flavored cake mix and one box of angel food cake mix in the bag. Seal and shake until fully blended.
- To bake, use a microwave-safe mug or paper cup. If using a reusable mug, lightly coat the inside with non-stick spray for easier cleanup.
- Add 3 tablespoons of the mug cake mix and 2 tablespoons of water to the mug. Stir to combine.
- Fold in 1 tablespoon of add-ins such as chocolate chips, jam, or syrup for extra flavor and moisture.
- Microwave on high for about 1 minute. Microwave wattage varies, so watch the cake closely to avoid overcooking.
- Let the mug cake cool for a few minutes before adding frosting or sprinkles.
Mug cake tips
- Mix any flavored cake mix with angel food cake mix. Chocolate and vanilla are versatile, but flavors like red velvet or strawberry also work well.
- Add-ins boost flavor and moisture. Try chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, mini marshmallows, jam, or syrup.
- For care packages, include disposable paper cups and measuring spoons. Aerosol nonstick spray is not allowed in many airmail shipments, so avoid sending it.
- Using nonstick spray when baking in reusable mugs makes cleanup much easier.
- Fill mugs no more than half full to prevent overflow. An 8-ounce cup is the minimum size for this recipe; larger add-ins require a larger mug.
- If your microwave mug cake turns out spongy, add moisture before cooking — one tablespoon of syrup, jam, or condensed milk helps greatly.
- To intensify chocolate flavor, add a tablespoon of chocolate syrup or a tablespoon of cocoa powder plus an extra teaspoon of water.
- Because microwaves differ, watch the first cake closely to determine the optimal cook time for your appliance.
- Mug cakes are intended to be eaten right away and are not designed for storage or later consumption.
Care package tips
Assemble a care package that satisfies midnight munchies by including these items:
- Bagged mug cake mix (pre-mixed flavored cake mix and angel food mix)
- A measuring spoon
- Disposable paper cups and plastic spoons
- Add-ins such as candy, chocolate chips, or dried fruit
- Toppings like canned frosting, chocolate or caramel syrup, and sprinkles
- Printed microwave mug cake instructions
Frequently asked questions
Use the cake mix plus water recipe — no egg required.
Stir in a tablespoon of syrup, jam, or condensed milk before cooking. You can also top the cake with extra syrup or frosting after cooking.
Mix in a tablespoon of chocolate syrup or a tablespoon of cocoa plus an additional teaspoon of water before microwaving.
Related recipes
Pineapple Mug Cake provides a fruity single-serve option with tropical flavor.
Pumpkin Spice Mug Cake brings warm, seasonal flavor any time of year.
Biscoff Mug Cake is a quick treat for cookie-butter lovers.
Candy Bar Mug Cake is an excellent way to use up extra chocolate and candy pieces.
Black Forest Mug Cake combines cherries, chocolate, and almonds for a decadent mini-dessert.
Gingerbread Mug Cake uses spice cake mix for a holiday-style mug cake with crystallized ginger and caramel syrup.
Ready to try it? The recipe card below includes full ingredient amounts and step-by-step directions for making the mug cake mix and baking individual servings.
Mug Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Mug cake mix
- 1 box Angel food cake mix 16 ounces
- 1 box Flavored cake mix 15.25 ounces
- Water
Extras
- Non-stick spray
- 1 can Fudge frosting (optional)
- Add-ins Optional: chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, mini marshmallows, coconut, nuts, sprinkles
Instructions
To make the Mug Cake Mix
-
Combine both boxes of cake mix in a gallon-size zip-top bag and shake until thoroughly blended.
To make mug cakes
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Use a microwave-safe paper cup or mug. If using a reusable mug, lightly coat the inside with non-stick spray for easier cleanup.
-
Add 3 tablespoons of the cake mix and 2 tablespoons of water into the mug. Stir to combine, then add 1–2 tablespoons of desired add-ins and stir again.
-
Microwave on high for 1 minute, adjusting time as needed based on your microwave’s wattage.
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Allow the cake to cool for a few minutes before adding frosting or toppings.
Notes
- Add-ins give extra flavor and moisture to chocolate or vanilla mug cakes; experiment with your favorite combinations.
- For care packages, include paper cups and measuring spoons rather than aerosol sprays.
- Use nonstick spray inside reusable mugs for easier cleanup.
- Do not fill the mug more than halfway to avoid overflow; an 8-ounce cup is the smallest recommended size.
- To avoid a dry or spongy texture, add a tablespoon of syrup, jam, or condensed milk before microwaving.
- Make chocolate versions richer by adding chocolate syrup or cocoa powder and a splash of extra water.
- Microwave wattages vary; watch your first mug cake to determine the correct cook time for your appliance.
- Mug cakes are best eaten immediately and are not intended for storage.
- Store any leftover dry mix in an airtight bag or container at room temperature.
- Label the bag or container with the simple recipe so the recipient knows the 3-2-1 directions.
Packing tips
- Combine the two cake mixes in a labeled gallon-size zip-top bag.
- Include a measuring spoon and microwave-safe paper cups or snack bowls, plus printed directions.
- For a special touch, add canned frosting and a few add-ins.
Nutrition
| Carbohydrates: 29 g
| Protein: 2 g
| Fat: 3 g
First Published: March 29, 2013. Last Updated: July 11, 2024. Updated for clarity and an improved user experience.