Vanilla Mug Cake Recipe
Introduction
This Vanilla Mug Cake is a quick and easy single-serving dessert that you can make in just minutes. Perfect for satisfying a sweet craving without any fuss or fancy ingredients.

Ingredients
- 1/4 cup (28g) King Arthur Golden Wheat Flour
- 1/16 teaspoon table salt
- 1/16 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/8 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon (12g) vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons (28g) water
- 1/4 teaspoon cider vinegar or white vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon King Arthur Pure Vanilla Extract
- 1 to 2 teaspoons sprinkles, optional
Instructions
- Step 1: Combine the dry ingredients—flour, salt, baking soda, baking powder, and sugar—in a 6- to 8-ounce microwave-safe mug, bowl, ramekin, or container.
- Step 2: Add the vegetable oil, water, vinegar, and vanilla extract to the dry mix. Stir until there are no dry spots and the batter is smooth. If using, scatter sprinkles on top.
- Step 3: Microwave the container on high for 40 seconds. Check the cake; if the center isn’t fully set beyond a small 1/2″ circle, microwave for an additional 5 to 10 seconds. In a 1000-watt microwave, total cooking time should be 40 to 50 seconds.
- Step 4: Remove the cake from the microwave and let it cool for a couple of minutes before eating. For extra indulgence, top with whipped cream or ice cream.
Tips & Variations
- Use full-fat milk instead of water for a richer cake.
- Swap vegetable oil with melted butter for a buttery flavor.
- Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice twist.
- Experiment with different extracts like almond or lemon to change the flavor profile.
- If you don’t have sprinkles, a handful of mini chocolate chips works great too.
Storage
This mug cake is best enjoyed immediately for the freshest texture. If you do have leftovers, cover and store in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Reheat briefly in the microwave to warm before eating, but note the texture may be slightly drier.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of golden wheat flour?
Yes, all-purpose flour works well in this recipe and will produce a similar texture and flavor.
What if I don’t have cider or white vinegar?
You can use lemon juice as a substitute for vinegar to help activate the baking soda and keep the cake light and fluffy.
Print
Vanilla Mug Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 6 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This quick and easy Vanilla Mug Cake is a perfect single-serving dessert that can be whipped up in just minutes using simple pantry ingredients. Soft, moist, and subtly flavored with vanilla, this cake is cooked in the microwave, making it an ideal sweet treat for when you need a fast, fuss-free indulgence.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1/4 cup (28g) King Arthur Golden Wheat Flour
- 1/16 teaspoon table salt
- 1/16 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/8 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon (12g) vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons (28g) water
- 1/4 teaspoon cider vinegar or white vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon King Arthur Pure Vanilla Extract
Optional
- 1 to 2 teaspoons sprinkles
Instructions
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a 6- to 8-ounce microwave-safe mug, bowl, or ramekin, add the golden wheat flour, table salt, baking soda, baking powder, and granulated sugar. Stir these ingredients together to combine them evenly.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the vegetable oil, water, vinegar, and vanilla extract. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and there are no visible dry spots in the batter.
- Add Sprinkles (Optional): Scatter 1 to 2 teaspoons of sprinkles on top of the batter if desired to add a colorful and fun touch.
- Microwave the Cake: Place the mug or container in the microwave and cook on high power for 40 seconds. Check if the cake is set, especially outside the center. If it’s still wet beyond a half-inch circle in the middle, microwave for an additional 5 to 10 seconds, totaling about 40 to 50 seconds in a 1000-watt microwave.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the mug from the microwave and allow the cake to cool for a couple of minutes before eating. Optionally, top with whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for extra indulgence.
Notes
- Use a microwave-safe container that holds between 6 to 8 ounces to ensure the cake cooks evenly.
- The cooking time may vary depending on the wattage of your microwave; adjust accordingly to avoid overcooking or undercooking.
- For a dairy variation, substitute vegetable oil with melted butter and water with milk for a richer flavor.
- Sprinkles are optional but add a colorful, festive element to your mug cake.
- Allow the cake to cool slightly to avoid burning your mouth as microwaves heat rapidly.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 seconds
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Microwaving
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: vanilla mug cake, single serving cake, microwave cake, quick dessert, easy mug cake, vanilla dessert

