Name: Microwave lemon mug cake recipe
Prep time: 3 min
Cook time: 1 min
Total time: 4 min
Ingredients: 4 tbsp all-purpose flour; 2 tbsp granulated sugar; ¼ tsp baking powder; 3 tbsp milk; 1 tbsp vegetable oil (or melted butter); 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice; ½ tsp lemon zest; ⅛ tsp vanilla extract (optional); Pinch of salt; Optional Glaze:; 2 tbsp powdered sugar; ½ tsp lemon juice; Drop of milk (if needed for consistency)

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Craving a quick dessert with a refreshing citrus twist? This Microwave Lemon Mug Cake is the perfect single-serve indulgence that’s light, moist, and bursts with bright lemon flavor—all ready in under five minutes. As a professional chef, I believe simplicity and precision should never compromise flavor, and this recipe embodies that philosophy. Whether you’re battling a late-night sweet tooth or need a fast afternoon pick-me-up, this microwave treat delivers bakery-style satisfaction with minimal effort.

Ingredients List

4 tbsp all-purpose flour (sifted)
2 tbsp granulated sugar
¼ tsp baking powder
3 tbsp milk (whole or 2% recommended)
1 tbsp vegetable oil (or melted unsalted butter)
1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
½ tsp lemon zest (preferably organic)
⅛ tsp pure vanilla extract (optional, enhances lemon)
Pinch of salt

Optional glaze:

2 tbsp powdered sugar
½ tsp lemon juice
Drop of milk for consistency (if needed)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Mug:

Use an 8 to 10 oz microwave-safe mug. Lightly grease the inside with a drop of oil or butter to prevent sticking.

Mix Dry Ingredients:

In the mug, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Use a fork or small whisk to avoid clumping.

Add Wet Ingredients:

Stir in the milk, oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract (if using). Mix thoroughly until the batter is smooth and lump-free. Scrape the sides to incorporate all ingredients.

Microwave:

Place the mug in the center of the microwave and heat on high for 1 minute and 15 seconds. Cooking time may vary depending on wattage (1100W baseline). The cake should rise and spring back when lightly pressed.

Cool Slightly:

Let the mug cake sit for 1 minute before serving. This allows the texture to set fully.

Glaze It (Optional but Exceptional):

Mix powdered sugar and lemon juice in a small bowl. Drizzle over the warm cake for a tangy-sweet finish.

Cook Time

Prep Time: 3 minutes
Cook Time: 1 minute 15 seconds
Cooling Time: 1 minute
Total Time: Under 6 minutes

Servings

Yields 1 single-serve mug cake

Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)

Calories: 260 kcal
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Sugar: 20g
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 120mg

Note: Glaze adds approx. 40 kcal.

Storage Instructions

This mug cake is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to store it:

Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 12 hours.
Reheat gently in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.
Avoid freezing; texture degrades significantly.

Suggestions

Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
A few fresh raspberries or blueberries on top elevate presentation and flavor.
Pair with a cup of Earl Grey tea or iced green tea for a refined balance.

For a brunch twist, serve alongside lemon ricotta pancakes or fresh fruit salad.

Seasonal Relevance

This lemon mug cake is a year-round gem, but it truly shines in spring and summer when citrus is at its peak. Its lightness makes it ideal for warm-weather cravings, garden brunches, or refreshing afternoon treats.

Conclusion

The Microwave Lemon Mug Cake proves that exquisite flavor doesn’t demand elaborate effort. In less than six minutes, you can enjoy a dessert that tastes handcrafted, with a bright citrus finish and moist, delicate crumb. Whether you’re a busy professional, a student in a dorm, or simply someone who appreciates fast, high-quality comfort food—this is your go-to recipe. It’s minimalist baking at its best.

Microwave lemon mug cake recipe

Recipe by Emma Hill

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minute

Calories

260

kcal

A quick, zesty, and ultra-moist single-serve lemon cake made entirely in a mug. This microwave lemon mug cake is ready in under 6 minutes and offers a bright, tangy citrus flavor with minimal ingredients and cleanup. Perfect for a quick dessert or citrusy afternoon treat.

Ingredients

4 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 tbsp granulated sugar
¼ tsp baking powder
3 tbsp milk
1 tbsp vegetable oil (or melted butter)
1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
½ tsp lemon zest
⅛ tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Pinch of salt
Optional Glaze:
2 tbsp powdered sugar
½ tsp lemon juice
Drop of milk (if needed for consistency)

Directions

Lightly grease a microwave-safe mug (8–10 oz).
In the mug, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Add milk, oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract (if using). Mix until smooth.
Microwave on high for 1 minute 15 seconds (adjust based on your microwave’s wattage).
Let cool for 1 minute before serving.
Mix glaze ingredients and drizzle on top, if desired.

Recipe Video

Notes

For best results, use fresh lemon juice and zest.
Avoid overcooking, which can lead to a rubbery texture. Start with 1 minute and add more time in 5-second increments if needed.
Mug cakes cook best in a wide mug rather than a tall one to avoid overflow.
Can be made vegan with plant-based milk and oil.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this mug cake vegan?
Yes. Substitute dairy milk with almond or oat milk, and use coconut oil or vegan butter. It will still rise beautifully and taste delicious.

Q2: Why did my mug cake come out rubbery or dry?
Overcooking is usually the culprit. Start with 1 minute and increase in 5-second increments until done. Mug size and microwave wattage matter.

Q3: Can I double the recipe?
You can, but it’s better to make two separate mug cakes for even cooking. Doubling in one mug may lead to uneven texture or overflow.

Microwave lemon mug cake recipe

Ingredients List