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Craving something quick and delicious? This Chocolate Hazelnut Mug Cake is the answer! In just minutes, you can create a rich, chocolatey treat with a gooey hazelnut center. Perfect for busy days or late-night cravings, this recipe uses simple ingredients you likely have on hand. Letβs dive into this easy, delightful dessert that will satisfy your sweet tooth without the fuss! You deserve this tasty treat.
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This mug cake comes together in just a few minutes, making it a perfect last-minute dessert.
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of rich chocolate and creamy hazelnut spread creates an indulgent flavor profile.
- Customizable: You can easily modify this recipe by adding your favorite toppings or mix-ins, like nuts or chocolate chips.
- Single Serving: This recipe is portioned for one, so you can satisfy your sweet tooth without overindulging.
Ingredients
To make a quick and tasty chocolate hazelnut mug cake, you need a few simple items. Hereβs what youβll need:
β 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
β 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
β 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
β 1/8 teaspoon baking powder
β 1/8 teaspoon salt
β 3 tablespoons milk (or non-dairy alternative)
β 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
β 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
β 1 tablespoon chocolate hazelnut spread (e.g., Nutella)
β Optional: Chopped hazelnuts for topping
Each ingredient plays a key role. The flour gives the cake structure, while the sugar adds sweetness. Cocoa powder gives that rich chocolate flavor. Baking powder helps the cake rise, and salt enhances all the flavors. The milk and oil keep the cake moist, while vanilla adds a lovely aroma. Finally, the chocolate hazelnut spread creates a gooey center. If you want a crunchy bite, sprinkle some chopped hazelnuts on top!
Gather these ingredients before you start. This will help your cooking flow smoothly. Trust me; it makes the whole process easier and more fun!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Dry Ingredients
β In a microwave-safe mug, add:
β 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
β 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
β 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
β 1/8 teaspoon baking powder
β 1/8 teaspoon salt
Whisk these dry ingredients well. This step makes sure they mix evenly. It is key for the cake to rise nicely.
Mixing Wet Ingredients
β Next, add:
β 3 tablespoons milk (or a non-dairy alternative)
β 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
β 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Stir until the mixture is smooth. Look for no lumps. A smooth batter helps the cake cook evenly.
Incorporating Chocolate Hazelnut Spread
β Add 1 tablespoon of chocolate hazelnut spread on top.
β Use a toothpick or a small spoon to swirl it in.
Make sure not to mix it all the way. You want a melty center that adds gooey goodness.
Cooking the Mug Cake
β Microwave the mug on high for 40-60 seconds.
The time can change based on your microwaveβs wattage. Keep an eye on it. The cake should rise and look set but still be soft in the middle.
Let it cool for a minute before you dig in. If you want, top it with chopped hazelnuts for extra crunch!
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring the Right Texture
To check if your mug cake is done, poke it gently with a toothpick. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, itβs ready. Overcooking can make it tough. Aim for a soft center that slightly jiggles. If it looks too wet, microwave it for 10 more seconds.
Enhancing Flavor
You can add fun flavors and textures. Here are some tips:
β Add a tablespoon of peanut butter for a nutty twist.
β Mix in chocolate chips for extra gooeyness.
β Top with whipped cream or ice cream for a treat.
β Sprinkle with chopped hazelnuts for crunch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these common pitfalls:
β Donβt overmix your batter; this can make the cake tough.
β Use the right mug size; a 12 oz mug works best.
β Watch your cooking time closely; each microwave is different.
β If your cake is dry, it may have cooked too long. Aim for a moist cake.
Pro Tips
- Use a larger mug: This helps prevent overflow as the cake rises while cooking in the microwave.
- Check microwave power: Adjust cooking time based on your microwaveβs wattage to prevent overcooking.
- Add a pinch of espresso: A tiny pinch enhances the chocolate flavor without making it taste like coffee.
- Experiment with toppings: Try adding whipped cream, chocolate chips, or fresh fruit for added flair.

Variations
Nut-Free Alternatives
If you want a nut-free option, you can swap the hazelnut spread. Try using sunflower seed butter or soy nut butter. Both options give a nice creamy texture. You can also use chocolate spread that is nut-free. Look for brands that are safe for allergies.
Flavor Twist Ideas
Feeling adventurous? You can change the flavor of your mug cake. Add a tablespoon of instant coffee for a mocha flavor. Mix in a spoon of peanut butter for a rich twist. You could even try mint extract for a fresh taste. Just remember to keep the total liquid the same when you add new flavors.
Dietary Modifications
Want to make this mug cake vegan? Use plant-based milk and a vegan chocolate spread. You can also substitute the egg by using flaxseed meal mixed with water. For a gluten-free option, replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend. Both will work well in this recipe!
Storage Info
Leftover Storage
To store any leftover mug cake, let it cool first. Cover the mug with plastic wrap or transfer the cake to an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and moist. You can store it in the fridge for up to two days. If you want to save it longer, consider freezing it. Just wrap the mug cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. It can last up to a month in the freezer.
Reheating Tips
When youβre ready to enjoy your mug cake again, reheating is key. Remove any plastic wrap if you used it. Place the mug in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Check if itβs warm enough. If itβs still cold, heat it in additional 5-second bursts. Reheating too long can make it dry, so take your time.
Meal Prep Ideas
You can make multiple servings of this mug cake in advance. Just mix the dry ingredients in a bowl and store them in separate bags. When youβre ready to bake, add the wet ingredients to each mug. This makes it easy for a quick dessert. You can also prepare several mug cakes and keep them in the fridge for a fast treat. Just remember to adjust the heating time for each mug.
FAQs
Can I use a larger mug for this recipe?
You can use a larger mug, but I recommend a 12 oz mug. This size helps the cake cook evenly. If your mug is too big, the cake may not rise well. It might also cook too fast, leading to a dry texture. Stick with the right size for the best results.
How can I make this recipe sugar-free?
To make this mug cake sugar-free, use sugar substitutes like stevia or erythritol. These options give sweetness without added sugar. They work well and keep the cake tasty. Adjust the amount to match your desired sweetness level. You may need to experiment a bit.
What if I donβt have a microwave?
If you donβt have a microwave, you can bake the mug cake in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Pour the batter into an oven-safe dish and bake for about 15-20 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick. It should come out clean. Enjoy the same great flavor!
This post covered how to make a simple mug cake. You learned about the key ingredients and step-by-step instructions. I shared tips to avoid common mistakes and gave ideas for variations. You can personalize your mug cake to fit your needs.
Remember, this recipe is easy and fun. With a few tweaks, you can make it your own. Enjoy your mug cake adventur
Decadent Chocolate Hazelnut Mug Cake
A quick and easy chocolate mug cake with a melty hazelnut center.
Prep Time 5 minutes mins
Cook Time 1 minute min
Total Time 6 minutes mins
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 1
Calories 350 kcal
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons milk (or non-dairy alternative)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon chocolate hazelnut spread (e.g., Nutella)
- optional Chopped hazelnuts for topping
In a microwave-safe mug (approximately 12 oz capacity), whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
Add the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients, then stir until you have a smooth batter. Make sure no lumps remain.
Dollop the chocolate hazelnut spread on top of the batter. Use a toothpick or small spoon to swirl it into the mixture without completely mixing it in. This will create a melty chocolate center.
Microwave the mug on high for about 40-60 seconds. The cooking time may vary based on your microwave's wattage, so keep an eye on it. The cake should rise and be set but slightly moist in the center.
Let the mug cake cool for a minute before enjoying. If you like, top with chopped hazelnuts for added crunch and flavor.
Microwave times may vary; adjust accordingly.
Keyword chocolate, hazelnut, mug cake, quick dessert