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- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour - 3 tablespoons granulated sugar - 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder - 1/8 teaspoon baking powder - 1/8 teaspoon fine salt - 3 tablespoons milk (any type) - 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or melted butter) - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 2 tablespoons chocolate hazelnut spread (plus more for topping) - A handful of chopped hazelnuts (for topping) You can swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. If you need a lower sugar option, try using a sugar substitute. For a dairy-free version, use almond milk or oat milk instead of regular milk. If you want more richness, feel free to use melted butter instead of vegetable oil. For a nut-free option, skip the hazelnuts altogether. Using the right tools helps make sure your cake turns out great. Use dry measuring cups for flour and sugar. Level off the top with a knife for accuracy. When measuring liquids, use a clear measuring cup with markings. Pour until you reach the desired line. For small amounts like baking powder, use a measuring spoon and level it off as well. Accurate measuring gives you a perfect mug cake every time! {{ingredient_image_2}} Start with a microwave-safe mug. Choose one that holds about 12 ounces. Add the dry ingredients: - 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour - 3 tablespoons granulated sugar - 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder - 1/8 teaspoon baking powder - 1/8 teaspoon fine salt Mix these well with a fork. You want a smooth blend without lumps. This step is key to a great cake. Next, add the wet ingredients: - 3 tablespoons milk (any type works) - 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or melted butter for a richer taste) - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Stir until the batter is smooth. No dry bits should remain. Then, take 2 tablespoons of chocolate hazelnut spread. Spoon it into the center of the batter. Use your fork to swirl it in gently. This creates a gooey center in your cake. Now, place your mug in the microwave. Cook it on high for 1 minute and 10 seconds. Microwaves differ, so keep an eye on it. If the cake looks wet, you can add a few extra seconds. Be careful not to overcook. Once done, take the mug out. It will be hot! Let it cool for about 1 minute. For added crunch, sprinkle chopped hazelnuts on top. If you want more chocolate, add a spoonful of hazelnut spread. Enjoy your warm, delicious mug cake! To get a soft and fluffy mug cake, mix well. Use a fork to blend your dry and wet ingredients thoroughly. Make sure no dry flour remains in the batter. Swirl the chocolate hazelnut spread carefully into the batter. This creates a gooey center that adds richness. Also, don’t overcook the cake. Microwaves vary, so start with 1 minute and 10 seconds. Check if it’s set, and adjust the time if needed. One common mistake is not measuring accurately. Use proper measuring cups and spoons for each ingredient. Another mistake is overmixing the batter. Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Be gentle when combining ingredients. Lastly, avoid using a mug that’s too small. A 12 oz mug works best to prevent overflow while cooking. Want to boost flavor? Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or coffee to the batter. Both enhance the chocolate taste. You can also swap out the vegetable oil for melted butter for a richer flavor. For extra texture, toss in mini chocolate chips or chunks. They melt beautifully and make each bite even more decadent. Sprinkle more chopped hazelnuts on top for a crunchy finish. Enjoy your creation with a scoop of ice cream for a special treat! Pro Tips Use a larger mug: If you're unsure about the capacity of your mug, opt for a larger one to prevent overflow while cooking. Experiment with flavors: Feel free to swap in different nut spreads or add a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder for a unique twist! Check microwave wattage: Microwaves vary in power; if your cake isn't fully set after 1 minute and 10 seconds, add time in 10-second increments. Serve warm: For the best experience, enjoy your mug cake warm, ideally paired with ice cream or whipped cream for added indulgence. {{image_4}} You can make this mug cake gluten-free. Just swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Many brands work well in baking. Look for a blend that has xanthan gum for the best results. This swap keeps your cake moist while still being fluffy. To make a vegan mug cake, replace the milk with a plant-based milk. Almond, soy, or oat milk all work great. Use coconut oil instead of vegetable oil for a slight coconut taste. Lastly, choose a vegan chocolate hazelnut spread. Many brands offer tasty options that fit perfectly in this recipe. You can customize your mug cake with fun flavors. Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder for added depth. If you want a fruity twist, try adding a spoonful of peanut butter or almond butter. For toppings, I love adding chopped hazelnuts for crunch. You can also drizzle more chocolate hazelnut spread on top for extra indulgence. For a fresh touch, add fresh berries or a scoop of ice cream. If you have any mug cake left, store it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh. You can place it in the fridge for up to two days. Remember to cover it well to avoid drying out. If you prefer, you can also wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. To reheat your mug cake, place it back in the microwave. Start with 10 to 15 seconds. Check to see if it is warm enough. If not, heat it for a few more seconds. Avoid overheating, as the cake may become tough. Enjoy your warm treat! You can prepare the dry ingredients ahead of time. Mix the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Store this mix in a jar for easy access. When you want a quick dessert, just add the wet ingredients. This saves time and makes it easy to whip up a tasty treat! You can tell when your mug cake is done by looking at its top. It should look set and not wet. A toothpick works well too. Insert it into the center. If it comes out clean, your cake is done. If it has batter on it, cook for a few more seconds. Microwaves can vary, so check often. Yes, you can use different types of chocolate spread. Brands like Nutella or store brands work well. Each type brings its own flavor. You might notice a change in sweetness or richness. Feel free to try different spreads. It keeps your mug cake exciting and new! Leftover hazelnuts can be used in many ways. You can chop them for toppings on salads or oatmeal. They also work well in baked goods like cookies or brownies. Try adding them to granola or trail mix for extra crunch. Roasting them brings out their flavor, making them even tastier! This blog post covered all you need to make a great mug cake. You learned the right ingredients, substitutions, and measuring tips for success. We detailed step-by-step instructions on preparing, mixing, and cooking. I shared tips for texture and common mistakes to avoid. You saw options for gluten-free and vegan adaptations. Finally, you discovered storage tips and answers to FAQs. Now you can make delicious mug cakes anytime with confidence. Enjoy your baking journey!

Chocolate Hazelnut Mug Cake

A quick and easy chocolate mug cake with a gooey hazelnut center, perfect for a single serving dessert.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 1 minute
Total Time 6 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 1
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon fine salt
  • 3 tablespoons milk
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons chocolate hazelnut spread
  • a handful hazelnuts, chopped

Instructions
 

  • Begin by selecting a microwave-safe mug (approximately 12 oz capacity) and add the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and fine salt. Stir thoroughly using a fork or small whisk to ensure a smooth blend without lumps.
  • Pour in the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix with the fork until the batter is completely smooth and there are no dry ingredients visible.
  • Take the chocolate hazelnut spread and spoon it into the center of the cake batter. Using the fork, gently swirl it in without fully mixing; this will create a gooey, melty chocolate core in the finished cake.
  • Place the mug in the microwave and heat on high for 1 minute and 10 seconds. Please note that microwaves vary in power, so watch closely to avoid overflow. If needed, you can add a few extra seconds if the cake isn’t fully set, but do not overcook.
  • Carefully extract the mug from the microwave—it will be very hot! Allow it to cool for approximately 1 minute before enjoying.
  • For a delightful crunch and added flavor, sprinkle the chopped hazelnuts over the top. For those extra chocolate cravings, feel free to add a spoonful of chocolate hazelnut spread on top for an indulgent finish!

Notes

Enjoy directly from the mug or transfer to a plate. Pair with ice cream or whipped cream for an extra treat!
Keyword chocolate, hazelnut, mug cake, quick dessert