Red Velvet Mug Cake
A quick and indulgent single-serving Red Velvet Mug Cake that blends rich cocoa, velvety texture, and a hint of tangy buttermilk flavor, ready in under five minutes using pantry staples. Perfect for a cozy treat or last-minute dessert without leftovers.
- Author: Kaeli
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 to 1.5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Microwaving
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (with flour substitution) / Vegan (with ingredient substitution)
Dry Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or almond/oat flour for gluten-free option)
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Wet Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons milk or buttermilk (or almond/soy milk for vegan twist)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon red food coloring
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Combine the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a microwave-safe mug. Mixing these first ensures a smooth batter without lumps.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the milk, oil, red food coloring, and vanilla extract. Stir gently until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the batter has a vibrant red color.
- Microwave: Cook the mug cake in the microwave for about 60 to 90 seconds. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking—the cake should be springy but moist when done.
- Optional Toppings: Once cooked, let it cool for a minute, then top with your choice of frosting, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar for extra indulgence.
Notes
- Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your baking powder and cocoa powder are fresh for the best rise and flavor.
- Don’t overmix: Stir just until combined to keep the cake tender and avoid a dense texture.
- Adjust microwave time: Microwaves vary, so start with 60 seconds and add time in 10-second intervals as needed.
- Let it rest: Allow the cake to sit for a minute post-microwaving to finish cooking and cool slightly.
- Use a larger mug: The batter will rise, so opt for a mug that can hold at least 12 ounces to prevent overflow.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mug cake
- Calories: Approximately 300 kcal
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg (or 20 mg if butter is used)
Keywords: red velvet, mug cake, single serving, quick dessert, microwave cake, chocolate dessert, easy recipe