Craving a sweet treat but short on time? This Chocolate Hazelnut Mug Cake is your answer. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious dessert in minutes. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for anyone who loves chocolate and hazelnuts. Get ready to impress yourself with a delightful cake made right in your mug! Letβs dive into the tasty details.
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This mug cake takes just 5 minutes to prepare and cook, making it a perfect last-minute dessert.
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate and hazelnut creates a rich and indulgent taste that satisfies any sweet tooth.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or mix-ins, such as extra nuts or chocolate chips, to make it your own.
- Single Serving: This recipe is designed for one, so you can enjoy a delicious treat without the temptation of leftovers.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
To make a delicious Chocolate Hazelnut Mug Cake, you need these simple ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons chocolate hazelnut spread (like Nutella)
- Handful of chopped hazelnuts (optional)
Measurements and Substitutions
When baking, precise measurements matter. For this mug cake, use standard tablespoons and teaspoons. If you run out of any ingredient, here are some smart swaps:
- All-purpose flour can be replaced with gluten-free flour.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder can switch to Dutch-processed cocoa if needed.
- Milk can be swapped with almond milk or any non-dairy milk.
- Vegetable oil can be changed to melted butter for extra flavor.
Importance of Quality Ingredients
Using quality ingredients makes a big difference. Fresh flour ensures your cake rises well. Good cocoa powder gives a rich chocolate taste. Fresh baking powder helps your cake to be fluffy. If you use high-quality chocolate hazelnut spread, the flavor shines through. Each ingredient adds to the joy of your cake. Better ingredients mean a better mug cake experience!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Process
To make your chocolate hazelnut mug cake, start with a big microwave-safe mug. I like to use one that holds about 12 ounces. In the mug, mix the dry ingredients first. You need:
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Use a small whisk or fork to blend these well. Make sure there are no lumps. This step is key for a smooth texture.
Next, you add the wet ingredients. Pour in:
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Stir these into the dry mix until you have a thick, smooth batter. Now, for the fun part! Fold in:
- 2 tablespoons chocolate hazelnut spread
You want to mix this gently. Aim for a marbled look, with some of the spread still visible. If you like, toss in a handful of chopped hazelnuts for added crunch.
Microwaving the Mug Cake
Now itβs time to cook your mug cake. Place the mug in the microwave and set the timer for 40 seconds. Keep an eye on it as it cooks. Every microwave is different, so your cake might need a bit more time.
If the middle looks gooey, continue microwaving in 10-second bursts. This way, you avoid overcooking. You want a soft, moist cake that rises nicely.
Checking for Doneness
After the timer goes off, check your cake. It should be firm around the edges but a little soft in the center. If it looks too wet, give it more time in the microwave. Let the mug cake sit for a minute before digging in; it will be very hot!
This quick and easy recipe gives you a warm, rich dessert in no time. Enjoy your creation right from the mug or plate it for a fancy touch!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Time Adjustments
The cooking time is key for a great mug cake. Start with 40 seconds in the microwave. Check the cake after that time. If it looks wet, cook for 10 more seconds. Repeat until done. Each microwave is different, so keep an eye on it.
Achieving the Perfect Texture
For a soft and fluffy cake, mix well but donβt overdo it. Stir until the batter is smooth. When you fold in the chocolate hazelnut spread, leave some swirls. This adds flavor and makes it look nice. If you want a fudgier texture, reduce the cooking time slightly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your mug cake warm for the best taste. You can eat it right from the mug. For a fancier look, transfer it to a plate. Top it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. Add more hazelnuts and a drizzle of chocolate hazelnut spread for extra flavor. Enjoy your treat!
Pro Tips
- Use a Larger Mug: Choose a 12-ounce mug to ensure the cake has enough room to rise without overflowing.
- Experiment with Mix-ins: Feel free to add chocolate chips or dried fruit for extra flavor and texture!
- Check Microwave Power: Microwave wattages vary; adjust cooking time according to your appliance for perfect doneness.
- Customize Your Toppings: Top with whipped cream, ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel for an indulgent twist!

Variations
Flavor Variations
You can easily change the flavor of your mug cake. For example, add a splash of coffee. This makes it rich and bold. A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg also works well. It gives a warm, cozy taste. You can even swap in peppermint extract for a minty treat. Each twist adds a fun new layer to your chocolate hazelnut mug cake.
Toppings and Mix-ins
Toppings can take your mug cake to the next level. After cooking, try adding whipped cream or vanilla ice cream on top. You can also drizzle more chocolate hazelnut spread for extra sweetness. For a crunchy touch, sprinkle some chopped hazelnuts or even crushed cookies. Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries add a fruity kick. Mix-ins can also make it special. Try adding mini chocolate chips or a spoonful of peanut butter before microwaving.
Gluten-Free Alternatives
If you want a gluten-free option, swap the all-purpose flour for almond flour. This keeps the cake moist and adds a nutty flavor. Another choice is to use a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it includes xanthan gum for the best texture. You can still enjoy the same delicious taste while meeting your dietary needs.
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storing Leftovers
To keep your chocolate hazelnut mug cake fresh, store it in an airtight container. If you have any leftovers, let the cake cool completely. Then, cover it tightly. This will help it stay moist. You can keep it at room temperature for one day. If you want to save it longer, place it in the fridge. It will last for up to three days this way.
Reheating the Mug Cake
When you want to enjoy your leftover mug cake, you can quickly reheat it. Place the cake in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This warms it up nicely without drying it out. Check it often to avoid overheating. If you want it extra warm, you can add a scoop of ice cream on top right before you heat it.
Freezing Options
You can freeze your mug cake if you want to save it for later. Let it cool completely first. Slice it into smaller pieces for easier thawing. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. Be sure to label the bag with the date. The mug cake will stay good for about one month in the freezer. When you want to enjoy it, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it in the microwave.
FAQs
How to Make Mug Cakes without a Microwave?
You can make mug cakes on the stovetop. Use a small pot with a lid. Place a heat-safe mug inside the pot. Add water to the pot, but not too much. The water should not touch the mug. Cover the pot and heat on low. Check the cake after about 10-15 minutes.
You can also use an oven. Preheat it to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Pour the mug cake batter into an oven-safe mug. Bake for about 15-20 minutes. Always check with a toothpick for doneness.
Can I use other types of nut spreads?
Yes, you can use other nut spreads. Almond or cashew spread works well too. You can also try peanut butter for a different taste. Each nut spread gives a unique flavor. Just keep the same amount as the chocolate hazelnut spread.
Is a mug cake recipe easily scalable for multiple servings?
Yes, you can scale up the recipe. Just multiply each ingredient by the number of servings you want. Use a larger bowl for mixing. You may need to adjust cooking time if you use a larger mug or bowl. Always check for doneness with a toothpick.
We covered how to make a tasty mug cake together. We talked about choosing ingredients and their quality. Preparing the cake was simple, and you can adjust cooking times to fit your tastes. I shared tips for different flavors and toppings. Storing and reheating the leftover cake is easy. With these steps, you can enjoy mug cakes anytime. Remember, experimenting makes baking fun, so get creative with your next mug cak

Chocolate Hazelnut Mug Cake
IngredientsΒ Β
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 0.25 teaspoon baking powder
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons chocolate hazelnut spread
- handful chopped hazelnuts (optional)
InstructionsΒ
- In a microwave-safe mug (around 12 ounces), combine the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Mix well with a small whisk or fork until thoroughly combined.
- Add the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir until you have a smooth batter with no lumps.
- Gently fold in the chocolate hazelnut spread, making sure itβs well incorporated but with some swirls remaining for a marbled effect. If desired, add in the chopped hazelnuts for an extra crunch.
- Microwave the mug on high for about 40-60 seconds. Start with 40 seconds and check the doneness; if it's still gooey in the middle, continue microwaving in 10-second intervals until fully cooked.
- Let the mug cake rest for a minute before enjoying, as it will be extremely hot.


