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    Home » Dessert

    Low Calorie Mug Cake

    Published: November 27, 2023 · Modified: February 7, 2025 by Kate · This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

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    Pinterest pin low calorie mug cake.

    Whip up this easy Low Calorie Mug Cake with a handful of simple ingredients. Bake it in the microwave for around a minute, and you'll have a cozy mug cake! Your sweet tooth will love this easy dessert recipe. 

    Try my Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake and my Lemon Cake With Pineapple Filling for more cake recipes!

    Cake in a mug scooped on a spoon.
    Jump to:
    • Why You'll Love This Recipe
    • Ingredients You Need
    • Step By Step Photos
    • How To Make A Mug Cake From Scratch
    • Using Different Sweeteners
    • Tips
    • Frequently Asked Questions About Mug Cakes
    • More Dessert Recipes You Might Enjoy
    • Low Calorie Mug Cake
    • #respond

    This low calorie mug cake is perfect for chocolate lovers! It's a single serving cake with rich chocolate flavor! Who wouldn't want their own chocolate cake?

    You can also dust cocoa powder, some Greek yogurt, dark chocolate chips, or scatter fresh berries on top. All you need are a handful of ingredients for this microwave mug cake.

    Another simple dessert you might want to try are these chocolate coconut fudge truffles. So good!

    Scoop of cake on a spoon.

    Why You'll Love This Recipe

    This easy mug cake recipe is a great way to satisfy those sweet cravings. It's a great recipe for that chocolate fix!

    This low calorie chocolate mug cake batter is made with basic ingredients. In a couple minutes you'll be enjoying this low-calorie dessert.

    Ingredients You Need

    Labeled ingredients for the mug cake.
    • Unsweetened applesauce: Adds a touch of natural sweetness and a smooth texture.
    • Unsweetened cocoa powder: Brings a rich, chocolatey flavor.
    • Whole wheat flour or almond flour: Choose whole wheat for a heartier option or almond flour for a gluten-free mug cake. 
    • Baking powder: A leavening agent that makes your mug cake rise and become fluffy. 
    • Honey: A touch of sweetness ties everything together. You can adjust the amount of sweetener.
    • Vanilla extract: A tiny drop of this adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile. 
    • Pinch of salt: A little bit of salt enhances all the other flavors.

    Step By Step Photos

    Chocolate cake batter in a mug.

    Mix ingredients in a mug.

    A chocolate cake baked in a mug.

    Bake in microwave.

    How To Make A Mug Cake From Scratch

    Step 1. Mix batter: In a microwave-safe mug, combine applesauce, cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, honey, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Optional: Add dark chocolate chips or chopped nuts for extra flavor.

    Step 2. Microwave: Microwave the mug on high for 60-90 seconds until the cake rises and the center is set. Adjust the time based on your microwave's power.

    Step 3. Cool: Carefully remove the mug from the microwave and let the cake cool for a minute or two.

    NOTE: You can print the FULL recipe with all ingredients & detailed instructions below!

    A spoon stuck in a mug with cake.

    Using Different Sweeteners

    You can swap out honey for other sweeteners like maple syrup, agave nectar, stevia, coconut sugar, monk fruit sweetener or date paste. Just keep in mind that the sweetness level may vary, so adjust to taste.

    Tips

    • Be sure to fully mix the ingredients until you have a smooth batter. No one wants to bite into a clump of flour or cocoa powder.
    • For best results, keep a close eye on your mug cake while it's in the microwave. Cooking time can vary based on microwave wattage, so start with the lower end of the suggested time range and adjust as needed. You want the cake to rise and the center to set, but avoid overcooking to prevent dryness.
    • Use a microwave-safe mug that's large enough to allow the cake to rise without overflowing. A standard sized mug works well.
    • Incorporate a scoop of protein powder to increase the protein content of your mug cake. Chocolate or vanilla protein powder will work.
    • Replace some of the applesauce with plain non-fat Greek yogurt. This adds creaminess and protein.
    • A dash of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a touch of chili powder can give your mug cake a unique flavor twist.

    Frequently Asked Questions About Mug Cakes

    Can I use a different type of flour?

    Yes. Whole wheat flour and almond flour are great choices, but you can experiment with other flours like oat flour or coconut flour. 

    Can I use a regular oven instead of a microwave?

    Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to around 350 °F. Pour the batter into an oven safe ramekin or small baking dish, and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cake is risen and the center is set.

    Can I store the mug cake for later?

    Yes, you can store the mug cake at room temperature for up to 1-2 days. Make sure to cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container after it has cooled completely.

    How do I freeze mug cakes?

    To freeze, wrap the cooled mug cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a sealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. Mug cakes can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

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    If you love this recipe, please leave a comment with a five-star rating — or simply hit the five-star button in the recipe card. Don't forget to signup for my newsletter!

    Thumbnail of low calorie mug cake.

    Low Calorie Mug Cake

    5 from 4 votes
    By Kate
    Whip up this easy low calorie mug cake with a handful of simple ingredients. Bake it in the microwave for a minute for a delicious mug cake!
    Pin Recipe Print Recipe Save RecipeSaved!
    Prep 5 minutes mins
    Cook 1 minute min
    Total 6 minutes mins
    Servings 1
    Calories 150kcal
    Prevent your screen from going dark

    Special Equipment

    • Coffee Mug

    Ingredients
     
     

    • 2 tablespoons unsweetened applesauce
    • 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
    • 2 tablespoons whole wheat flour or almond flour
    • ¼ teaspoon baking powder
    • 1 tablespoon  honey
    • ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
    • Pinch of salt

    Instructions
     

    • In a microwave safe mug, mix the unsweetened applesauce, cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, honey, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until well combined.
    • Microwave the mug on high for about 60-90 seconds, or until the cake rises and the center is set. Cooking time may vary depending on your microwave's power, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
    • Carefully remove the mug from the microwave (it will be hot) and let it cool for a minute or two.

    Notes

    • Be sure to fully mix the ingredients until you have a smooth batter. No one wants to bite into a clump of flour or cocoa powder.
    • For best results, keep a close eye on your mug cake while it's in the microwave. Cooking time can vary based on microwave wattage, so start with the lower end of the suggested time range and adjust as needed. You want the cake to rise and the center to set, but avoid overcooking to prevent dryness.
    • Use a microwave-safe mug that's large enough to allow the cake to rise without overflowing. A standard sized mug works well.
    • Incorporate a scoop of protein powder to increase the protein content of your mug cake. Chocolate or vanilla protein powder will work.
    • Replace some of the applesauce with plain non-fat Greek yogurt. This adds creaminess and protein.
    • A dash of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a touch of chili powder can give your mug cake a unique flavor twist.
    • Storing: Allow the cake to cool completely in the mug before covering it with plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container. Store the at room temperature for up to 1-2 days. However, keep in mind that mug cakes are best enjoyed freshly made.
    • Freezing: Once your mug cake has completely cooled, remove it from the mug and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 3gFat: 1gSodium: 274mgPotassium: 119mgFiber: 4gSugar: 20g

    All nutritional information is based on third-party calculations and should be considered estimates. Actual nutritional content will vary with brands used, measuring methods, portion sizes and more.

    Tried this recipe?Give it a star rating and leave a comment below!

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