Chocolate Lava Mug Cakes

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🍫 Recipe: The 2-Minute Molten Lava Mug

  • Prep time: 2 minutes

  • Cook time: 1 minute

  • Servings: 1 large mug (or 2 small ramekins)

Ingredients

  • 4 tbsp All-purpose flour

  • 3 tbsp Granulated sugar (or coconut sugar)

  • 2 tbsp Unsweetened cocoa powder

  • 1/2 tsp Baking powder

  • 1 pinch Salt

  • 3 tbsp Whole milk (or oat milk)

  • 2 tbsp Neutral oil (vegetable, melted coconut, or melted butter)

  • 1/4 tsp Vanilla extract

  • 1 large square Dark chocolate (or 1 tbsp chocolate chips)

  • 1 tbsp Water (the “secret” lava ingredient)

Instructions

  1. Mix Dry: In a standard microwave-safe mug, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

  2. Add Wet: Stir in the milk, oil, and vanilla until the batter is smooth and no clumps remain.

  3. The “Lava” Core: Gently push your chocolate square or chips into the center of the batter. Do not stir it in; just submerge it.

  4. The Secret Splash: Drizzle the 1 tablespoon of water over the top of the batter. Do not stir. This creates the steam that ensures a molten center.

  5. Microwave: Cook on high for 60–75 seconds. The top should look set but slightly shiny.

  6. Rest: Let it sit for 1 minute. This is crucial for the structure to set so it doesn’t collapse immediately!

💡 Tips for Success

  • The Mug Matters: Use a straight-sided mug rather than a tapered one for even cooking.

  • Don’t Overcook: Every microwave is different. Start with 60 seconds. If the top looks like wet batter (not just shiny), add 10-second intervals.

  • Quality Cocoa: Since there are so few ingredients, using a high-quality Dutch-processed cocoa powder makes a world of difference in flavor.

📊 Nutritional Info & Benefits

Per Serving (Approximate)

Nutrient Amount
Calories 380 kcal
Fat 18g
Carbs 52g
Protein 5g
Sugar 28g

The “Benefit”:

Beyond the obvious soul-soothing properties of chocolate, using dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) provides a quick hit of antioxidants and flavonoids. Plus, the portion-controlled nature of a mug cake prevents the “I accidentally ate the whole tray of brownies” scenario.

❓ Common Questions (Q&A)

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?

A: Absolutely. Replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Avoid using straight almond flour as it won’t provide the necessary structure to hold the “lava.”

Q: Why is my cake rubbery?

A: This usually happens if you use too much oil or overcook it. Microwave mug cakes continue to cook for a few moments after the timer hits zero, so pull it out while it still looks a little “underdone” in the very center.

Q: Can I make this vegan?

A: Yes! Simply use almond or oat milk and ensure your chocolate core is dairy-free.

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