Easy Microwave Lemon Mug Cake Recipe for Dorms in 5 Minutes
A quick and easy lemon mug cake made entirely in the microwave, perfect for dorm life or any time you want a fresh, sweet treat in just 5 minutes.
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 tablespoons (30 grams) all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons (38 grams) granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- a pinch of salt
- 3 tablespoons (45 ml) milk (whole milk preferred, any milk or dairy-free alternative works)
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) vegetable oil (light olive oil or melted coconut oil can be used)
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting or glaze (mix with lemon juice)
Instructions
- In a microwave-safe mug, combine 4 tablespoons (30 g) all-purpose flour, 3 tablespoons (38 g) granulated sugar, 1/4 teaspoon baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to evenly distribute the baking powder and salt. (Approx. 1 minute)
- Add 3 tablespoons (45 ml) milk, 2 tablespoons (30 ml) vegetable oil, 1 tablespoon (15 ml) fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, and 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract to the mug. Mix thoroughly until smooth with no lumps. (Approx. 2 minutes)
- Microwave the mug on high for 1 minute and 15 seconds to 1 minute and 30 seconds. Start with 1:15 and add 10-second bursts if needed. The cake should rise and feel springy, not wet or sticky. (Approx. 1.5 minutes)
- Check doneness by inserting a toothpick or clean knife into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If wet batter remains, microwave for another 10-15 seconds.
- Let the cake cool for 2-3 minutes before eating. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a lemon glaze made from powdered sugar mixed with lemon juice.
Notes
Avoid overcooking to prevent dryness. Use fresh lemon zest and juice for best flavor. Stir batter well to avoid pockets of flour or sugar. Adjust microwave time based on wattage and mug size. Use a larger mug to prevent overflow and fill only halfway with batter.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: One mug cake (about
- Calories: 275
- Sugar: 20
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 14
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Carbohydrates: 34
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 3
Keywords: lemon mug cake, microwave cake, dorm dessert, quick dessert, easy lemon cake, single serving cake, microwave mug cake