5-Minute Chocolate Lava Mug Cake
Make a gooey 5-Minute Chocolate Lava Mug Cake in the microwave. A rich, warm, single-serve dessert with molten chocolate center ready in minutes.
Method
- Mix flour, sugar and cocoa in a large microwave-safe mug.
- Add egg, milk and oil. Whisk until smooth.
- Push 2 chocolate squares into center of batter.
- Microwave 60-90 seconds until edges are set but center jiggles.
- Let rest 30 seconds - it continues cooking.
- Top with ice cream or whipped cream.
Microwave times are for a 1,000 W microwave, the usual US size. In an 800 W microwave (common in the UK and Europe) add about a quarter more time; at 1,200 W check a little early.
This 5-Minute Chocolate Lava Mug Cake is warm, rich, and irresistibly gooey — made right in the microwave. With simple pantry ingredients like cocoa powder, flour, sugar, and chocolate, this easy dessert creates a molten lava center in just minutes.
Perfect for late-night cravings, quick celebrations, or when you want a single-serve treat without baking a full cake, this microwave chocolate lava cake is both decadent and dangerously easy to make. The soft outer cake combined with the gooey chocolate center delivers bakery-style results at home.
If you’re looking for a fast, indulgent chocolate dessert recipe, this 5-minute lava mug cake is a must-try.
Nutrition per serving
- Calories
- 420 kcal
- Protein
- 6 g
- Carbs
- 58 g
- Fat
- 18 g
- Fibre
- 2 g
- Sugar
- 32 g
- Sodium
- 180 mg
Values are estimates based on USDA FoodData Central and vary with brands and portioning.
Chef notes
The chocolate squares in the center create the molten lava effect when they melt!
Substitutions
- Cocoa powder: Dutch process for richer flavor — Dark chocolate: Milk chocolate or Nutella|Vegetable oil: Melted butter
Serving suggestions
Serve immediately topped with vanilla ice cream and fresh berries.
Storage
Best made and eaten immediately.
Reheating
Not recommended for reheating.
Equipment
- Large microwave-safe mug
- Whisk
- Microwave
Variations
- Peanut Butter: Add 1 tbsp PB to center
- Salted Caramel: Add caramel sauce
- Red Velvet: Add drop of red food coloring
Why it works
Short microwave time leaves center underdone intentionally, creating the lava center.
Frequently asked questions
Why does mine overflow?
Use a larger mug or reduce time.
Center too liquid?
Microwave 10 seconds more.
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