Cake in a cup, often known as a "mug cake," is a fantastic way to enjoy a quick, single-serving dessert with minimal effort. Perfect for those times when you crave something sweet but don’t want to bake an entire cake, mug cakes are quick to prepare and cook in the microwave. Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for a classic vanilla mug cake, along with some tips for customizing it to suit your tastes.
Classic Vanilla Mug Cake Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a microwave-safe mug, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
Add Wet Ingredients:
- Add the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir until the mixture is smooth and there are no lumps.
Microwave:
- Microwave the mug on high for 1 minute and 30 seconds, or until the cake has risen and is set in the center. Cooking times may vary depending on your microwave’s wattage, so start checking at 1 minute.
Cool Slightly:
- Let the mug cake cool for a few minutes before enjoying. The cake will be hot, so be careful when eating.
Optional Toppings:
- Add a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of ice cream, fresh fruit, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.
Tips for Perfect Mug Cake
- Check Consistency: The batter should be somewhat thick but smooth. If it seems too dry, add a splash more milk. If it’s too runny, add a touch more flour.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to avoid a tough texture.
- Watch the Cooking Time: Microwaves vary, so start with less time and add more if needed. Overcooking can make the cake dry.
- Use a Large Mug: Ensure your mug is large enough to allow the cake to rise without overflowing. A 12-ounce mug works well for most recipes.
Flavor Variations
- Chocolate Mug Cake: Substitute 1 tablespoon of flour with cocoa powder. You can also stir in some chocolate chips for extra chocolatey goodness.
- Lemon Mug Cake: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest to the batter and replace the vanilla extract with lemon extract. You can also drizzle with a lemon glaze.
- Cinnamon Roll Mug Cake: Add ¼ teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the dry ingredients and top with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
Customization Ideas
- Mix-ins: Feel free to fold in a handful of chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit into the batter before microwaving.
- Swirls: After mixing the batter, add a spoonful of your favorite jam or caramel sauce and swirl it in before microwaving for a fun surprise in the center.
Conclusion
Mug cakes are a delightful and quick way to satisfy your sweet tooth without the hassle of baking a whole cake. With this basic vanilla recipe, you can enjoy a warm, comforting dessert in just minutes. Plus, the flexibility of the recipe allows you to experiment with different flavors and add-ins, making mug cakes a versatile treat for any occasion. So grab your mug, mix up the batter, and enjoy your personalized dessert in no time!
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