Chocolate Lava Mug Cake

Sometimes dessert cravings don’t wait for an oven. That’s where this chocolate lava mug cake comes in — rich, gooey, and ready in under 10 minutes. It’s the kind of sweet fix that feels indulgent without requiring a sink full of dishes or an hour of prep. Just a mug, a few pantry staples, and a microwave.

What makes this one stand out is the molten center: a square of chocolate (or a handful of chips) that melts into the middle while the cake cooks. It’s warm, soft, and just messy enough to remind you why chocolate desserts never go out of style. Add a scoop of ice cream on top, and suddenly you’ve turned a Tuesday night into something worth celebrating.

Makes 1 large mug cake — perfect for sharing (but you probably won’t).

Chocolate Lava Mug Cake

Warm, gooey chocolate cake with a molten center, made in the microwave in minutes.

Ingredients

• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup sugar
• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• ¼ tsp baking powder
• Pinch of salt
• 3 tbsp milk
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or melted butter)
• ¼ tsp vanilla extract
• 1 oz chocolate (square or chips), for the molten center

Instructions

1. In a microwave-safe mug, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
3. Place the chocolate square (or a few chips) in the center of the batter and push down slightly.
4. Microwave on high for 60–75 seconds, until the cake has risen but the center is still soft.
5. Let cool for 1–2 minutes before eating — the chocolate will be molten inside.

Notes & Tips

• Use a wide mug so the cake rises evenly.
• Don’t overcook — the center should stay gooey.
• Top with ice cream, whipped cream, or fresh berries for extra indulgence.
• Swap the filling: try peanut butter, caramel, or Nutella instead of chocolate.