There are moments when you want dessert now — not after preheating the oven, not after washing a sink full of dishes, and definitely not after baking an entire cake. That’s where this coffee mug lava cake comes in.
This recipe is made for those late nights, quiet afternoons, or sudden chocolate cravings that don’t need a big production. It’s rich, warm, and has that soft, molten center that makes lava cake so satisfying — all made right in a single coffee mug.
What makes this version special is how simple it is. No mixer, no baking pan, and no fancy ingredients. Just a few pantry staples, one mug, and a microwave. In a few minutes, you’ve got a personal-sized dessert that feels indulgent without the effort.
At Top Recipes Day, we love sharing recipes that feel comforting and realistic, and this mug lava cake is one of those little wins you’ll come back to again and again.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 1–2 minutes
- Total Time: 7 minutes
- Servings: 1 serving
- Cuisine: American
- Category: Dessert Recipes
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 pinch salt
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon strong brewed coffee (or espresso)
- 1–2 teaspoons chocolate chips or chopped chocolate (for the lava center)
Optional toppings:
- powdered sugar
- vanilla ice cream
- whipped cream
- fresh berries
Instructions
- Choose a microwave-safe coffee mug (at least 12 oz so it doesn’t overflow).
- Add the dry ingredients to the mug: flour, cocoa powder, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
- Mix well with a fork until there are no cocoa lumps.
- Add the wet ingredients: milk, oil (or butter), vanilla extract, and brewed coffee.
- Stir until smooth, scraping the bottom and sides of the mug.
- Drop chocolate chips or chopped chocolate into the center of the batter. Do not stir.
- Microwave on high for 60 seconds. Check the cake.
- Microwave in 10–15 second intervals until the edges look set but the center is still soft.
- Let rest for 30–60 seconds before eating — the lava forms as it settles.
- Serve warm, straight from the mug or topped with ice cream.
Why You’ll Love This Coffee Mug Lava Cake
- Single-serving dessert with no leftovers
- Rich, gooey center just like classic lava cake
- Made in one mug (easy cleanup)
- Ready in under 10 minutes
- Perfect for late-night cravings
- No oven required
Pro Tips for the Perfect Lava Center
- Don’t overcook — slightly underdone is better than dry.
- Every microwave is different, so start with less time.
- Use real chocolate in the center for the best lava effect.
- Stir the batter thoroughly before adding chocolate.
- Let the cake rest briefly before eating.
Coffee Mug Lava Cake Variations
Double Chocolate Mug Lava Cake
Add an extra tablespoon of chocolate chips to the batter.
Mocha Lava Cake
Use espresso instead of coffee and add a pinch of instant coffee granules.
Peanut Butter Lava Cake
Replace the chocolate center with 1 teaspoon peanut butter.
Dairy-Free Mug Lava Cake
Use plant-based milk and oil instead of butter.
Sugar-Free Option
Use a granulated sugar substitute designed for baking.
Serving Ideas
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
- Dust with powdered sugar
- Add fresh strawberries or raspberries
- Drizzle with chocolate syrup
- Top with whipped cream and cocoa powder
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
This recipe is best eaten fresh. Mug cakes don’t store well because the texture changes as they cool.
If needed:
- Mix dry ingredients ahead and store in a jar
- Add wet ingredients right before cooking
Nutrition Information (Approximate)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 7g
- Carbs: 52g
- Fat: 22g
(Values may vary based on ingredients used.)
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make coffee mug lava cake without coffee?
Yes. You can replace the coffee with milk or water, but coffee enhances the chocolate flavor.
2. Why is my mug cake dry?
It was likely overcooked. Microwave in short bursts.
3. How do I get the lava center every time?
Don’t stir the chocolate in, and slightly undercook the cake.
4. What size mug should I use?
At least 12 oz to prevent overflow.
5. Can I bake this instead of microwaving?
Yes, bake at 350°F for about 10–12 minutes in an oven-safe mug.
6. Can I use butter instead of oil?
Absolutely. Melted butter adds richness.
7. Is mug lava cake safe to eat slightly undercooked?
Yes, as long as the ingredients are fresh.
8. Can I make this gluten-free?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
9. What chocolate works best for the center?
Dark chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate melts best.
10. Can I add espresso powder?
Yes, a pinch enhances flavor.
11. Why did my cake overflow?
The mug was too small or overfilled.
12. Can kids make this recipe?
Yes, with supervision around the microwave.
13. Does it taste like coffee?
No, the coffee deepens the chocolate flavor.
14. Can I double the recipe?
Not in one mug. Make separate mugs.
15. Is this better eaten hot or warm?
Warm is best — that’s when the lava center shines.
Final Thoughts
This coffee mug lava cake proves that dessert doesn’t have to be complicated to feel special. It’s quick, comforting, and exactly what you want when the craving hits.
You May Also Like :
5-Minute Chocolate Lava Mug Cake (Rich, Gooey & Irresistible)
No-Bake Lotus Biscoff Cheesecake
Soft Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins (Bakery-Style Sweet Treat)
Irresistible Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars (Bakery-Style Dessert Everyone Loves)
Easy Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding (Warm & Cozy Dessert)
Thanks for being here at Top Recipes Day. If you try this recipe, leave a comment, save it for later, and explore more easy dessert favorites on the site.
