How to Make a Chocolate Molten Lava Mug Cake in a Microwave

By Trisha Sprouse

When that sweet tooth strikes and you're short on time, this decadent mug cake comes together in less than five minutes. Rich, gooey and indulgent -- it's the perfect dessert for a party of one.

(Image: Trisha Sprouse)

Things You'll Need

• 1/4 cup flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
• Pinch of salt
• 1 tablespoon milk

• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 2 tablespoons beaten egg or egg substitute
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 oz square of chocolate
• Cooking spray
• Powdered sugar (optional)

Step 1: Combine the Dry Ingredients

Spray the inside of the mug with cooking spray or grease with butter. Add the flour, baking powder, sugar, brown sugar, cocoa powder and salt to the mug.

(Image: Trisha Sprouse)

Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients

Add the milk, melted butter, egg and vanilla extract. Stir all of the ingredients together until they form a smooth cake batter.

(Image: Trisha Sprouse)

(Image: Trisha Sprouse)

Step 3: Create the Molten Center

Use a spoon to create a well in the center of the cake batter. Nestle a square of chocolate inside the well and smooth cake batter over top to cover it.

(Image: Trisha Sprouse)

(Image: Trisha Sprouse)

Tip

• You could add more than one square of chocolate to the center for an extra gooey version.

Step 4: Microwave the Cake

Place the mug in the microwave and cook for 45 seconds. Check the cake for doneness. If needed, microwave the cake in additional 15-second increments until done. Generally, it should take no more than one minute to cook the cake but maintain a molten center.

(Image: Trisha Sprouse)

Dust the cake with powdered sugar and serve while warm.

(Image: Trisha Sprouse)

(Image: Trisha Sprouse)