Save Pin
This decadent chocolate peanut butter mug cake delivers all the joy of a rich dessert in just minutes without turning on the oven. It is soft moist and deeply flavorful with just the right balance of sweet cocoa and nutty peanut butter. Ideal for late night cravings or when you want a treat without baking a full cake this one mug wonder is made entirely with pantry staples and a microwave.
I came up with this version on a quiet night when I craved something indulgent but quick. Since then it has become my go to dessert for solo evenings or casual entertaining.
Ingredients
- All purpose flour provides structure and absorbs moisture for a tender cake texture
- Granulated sugar adds sweetness and helps with browning for flavor depth
- Unsweetened cocoa powder gives the cake its rich chocolate flavor opt for high quality dark cocoa for deeper taste
- Baking powder is essential for lift and fluffiness without needing eggs
- Salt sharpens the flavors and balances the sweetness and peanut notes
- Whole milk creates a moist batter and gives the cake a softer crumb avoid low fat milk for best results
- Vegetable oil keeps the cake tender and prevents dryness neutral oils work best
- Peanut butter adds creamy richness and flavor choose creamy or chunky based on your texture preference
Step by Step Instructions
- Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a large microwave safe mug stir together the flour sugar cocoa powder baking powder and salt until fully combined and even in color
- Add Wet Ingredients
- Pour in the milk add the vegetable oil and drop in the peanut butter stir everything thoroughly until a smooth thick batter forms without lumps
- Microwave the Cake
- Place the mug in the center of the microwave and cook on high for one minute and ten seconds the cake will rise and then gently deflate as it cools
- Let It Rest and Serve
- Allow the cake to cool for a minute or two before eating enjoy it straight from the mug or top with whipped cream or ice cream for added indulgence
Save Pin
The peanut butter here is more than flavor it gives the cake richness and that smooth melt in your mouth bite. I still remember testing different ratios one rainy afternoon until this perfect version came together and I finally found the right balance between chocolate and nut.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers which is rare let the cake cool completely then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to two days. To reheat microwave for ten to fifteen seconds just until warm but do not overheat or it will dry out.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use almond milk or oat milk in place of dairy milk. Brown sugar can replace white sugar for a slightly caramel flavor. Melted butter works instead of oil though the cake might be denser.
Serving Suggestions
Top with vanilla ice cream chocolate syrup whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar. For added texture mix in mini chocolate chips chopped nuts or marshmallows before microwaving.
Save Pin
Cultural Context
Mug cakes have gained popularity in recent years for their convenience and simplicity perfect for urban living or anyone short on time. This variation with peanut butter and chocolate is a nod to classic American flavor combinations beloved for generations.
Commonly Asked Questions
- → Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
Yes, almond butter or any nut butter can replace peanut butter. It may slightly change the flavor, but the texture remains delicious.
- → Why does my mug cake deflate after cooking?
This is normal! The batter rises rapidly in the microwave and then settles, creating a moist, fluffy texture.
- → How can I make this mug cake dairy-free?
Simply substitute the milk with any non-dairy alternative like almond milk, oat milk, or even brewed coffee for a mocha flavor.
- → What’s the best mug size for this cake?
Use a large, microwave-safe mug with at least 12 oz capacity to prevent overflow and ensure even cooking.
- → How do I avoid a rubbery texture?
Skip the egg and don’t overcook. Stir thoroughly and microwave for about 1 minute and 10 seconds for best results.
- → Can I add toppings or mix-ins?
Absolutely! Add chocolate chips, marshmallows, chopped nuts, or top with ice cream, whipped cream, or a peanut butter drizzle.