This Pioneer Woman Chocolate Mug Cake is a quick and decadent recipe, which is made with cocoa powder and chocolate chips. It’s the perfect single-serving dessert, ready in about 5 minutes.
Pioneer Woman Chocolate Mug Cake Ingredients
Simple pantry staples for an instant treat.
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- A tiny pinch of kosher salt
- 3 tablespoons whole milk
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- A splash of vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional but recommended)
How To Make Pioneer Woman Chocolate Mug Cake
From craving to cake in under five minutes.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a 12-ounce microwave-safe mug, add the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Use a fork to stir everything together until well combined.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract into the mug. Stir with the fork until the batter is smooth. Fold in the chocolate chips.
- Microwave and Rest: Wipe any excess batter from the rim of the mug with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 90 seconds. Let the cake stand for 1 to 2 minutes before eating, as it will be very hot.

Recipe Tips
For the perfect, gooey mug cake every time.
- How to avoid a rubbery mug cake? Do not overcook it! Microwave wattages vary. The cake is done when the top looks set. 90 seconds is a starting point; your microwave might need 80 seconds or up to 2 minutes. It’s better to undercook it slightly.
- Can I use a different oil? Yes, you can substitute the vegetable oil with an equal amount of melted butter or melted coconut oil for a slightly different flavor profile.
- What if I don’t have chocolate chips? The cake is still delicious without them, but the chocolate chips create wonderful molten pockets of chocolate throughout. You could also drop a spoonful of Nutella or peanut butter into the center of the batter before cooking.
- Why use a 12-ounce mug? It’s important to use a mug that’s large enough to allow the cake to rise without overflowing and making a mess in your microwave.
What To Serve With Chocolate Mug Cake
The perfect finishing touches.
This rich little cake is a decadent treat all on its own, but it’s even better when topped with:
- A big scoop of vanilla ice cream
- A dollop of sweetened whipped cream
- A drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce
- Fresh raspberries
How To Store Chocolate Mug Cake
Saving some for later.
- Eat Immediately: A mug cake is a single-serving dessert that is meant to be eaten warm, right after it’s made. It does not store well and will become dry and hard if refrigerated.
Chocolate Mug Cake Nutrition Facts
An estimated guide per serving.
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Fat: 28 g
- Sugar: 35 g
Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.
FAQs
Why did my mug cake taste eggy?
This recipe is great because it’s egg-free, so you won’t have that problem! Many mug cake recipes call for an egg, which can sometimes give the cake a slightly rubbery or eggy texture.
Can I make this gluten-free?
You can try substituting a 1-to-1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. The texture may be slightly different, but it should still be a delicious chocolatey treat.
My cake overflowed in the microwave, what happened?
This usually happens if your mug is too small. Be sure to use a standard 12-ounce (or larger) microwave-safe mug to give the batter enough room to rise as it cooks.
Try More Pioneer Woman Recipes:
- Pioneer Woman Ice Cream Sandwich Cake Recipe
- Pioneer Woman Carrot Cake Recipe
- Pioneer Woman Peach Dump Cake Recipe
Pioneer Woman Chocolate Mug Cake Recipe
Description
A rich, decadent, and incredibly fast chocolate cake made in a mug for the ultimate single-serving dessert fix, ready in under 5 minutes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 12-ounce mug, stir together flour, sugar, cocoa, baking powder, and salt.
- Add milk, oil, and vanilla; stir until smooth.
- Stir in chocolate chips.
- Microwave on high for 90 seconds.
- Let stand for 2 minutes before serving.
- Top with whipped cream or ice cream.
Notes
- u003cliu003eUse a large, 12-ounce mug to prevent the batter from overflowing.u003c/liu003eu003cliu003eDo not over-mix the batter, as this can make the cake tough.u003c/liu003eu003cliu003eAll microwaves are different; adjust the cooking time by 10-15 seconds if needed to avoid overcooking.u003c/liu003eu003cliu003eThe cake is best enjoyed immediately while warm and gooey.u003c/liu003e
