Are you craving something sweet but short on time? This Chocolate Hazelnut Mug Cake is your answer! In just minutes, you can whip up a rich, gooey dessert that satisfies your chocolate cravings. Made with simple ingredients you likely have at home, this recipe is quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious. Let’s dive into this chocolate delight and turn your mug into a magic dessert maker!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This mug cake takes just 5 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a last-minute dessert craving.
- Single Serving: No need to bake an entire cake; this recipe is designed for one, so you can indulge without the leftovers.
- Molten Center: The chocolate hazelnut spread creates a gooey, delicious center that elevates this simple mug cake to a whole new level.
- Customizable: You can easily swap out the hazelnuts or add other toppings like whipped cream or chocolate chips to suit your taste.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 4 tablespoons sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/8 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/8 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons milk (or non-dairy milk)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 tablespoons chocolate hazelnut spread (like Nutella)
– Handful of chopped hazelnuts (for topping)
This mug cake is quick and easy to make. You need just a few simple ingredients. Let’s go over them.
You start with all-purpose flour. It gives the cake structure. Then, you add sugar for sweetness. Unsweetened cocoa powder provides that rich chocolate flavor we all love. The baking powder helps your cake rise. A pinch of salt brings all the flavors together.
Next, you add milk. It keeps the cake moist. You can use non-dairy milk if you prefer. Vegetable oil adds richness and a soft texture. The vanilla extract gives a lovely aroma and taste.
The star of this show is the chocolate hazelnut spread. It creates a gooey, molten center. Finally, sprinkle some chopped hazelnuts on top for crunch. They add a nice texture and flavor contrast.
These ingredients come together to make a delicious treat. You can enjoy it in just a few minutes. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Mixing the Dry Ingredients
Start by grabbing a microwave-safe mug. In the mug, combine these dry items:
– 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 4 tablespoons sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/8 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/8 teaspoon salt
Stir these well with a fork or spoon. Make sure there are no lumps left. This step helps your cake rise perfectly.
Adding Wet Ingredients
Next, pour in the wet ingredients:
– 3 tablespoons milk (or non-dairy milk)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mix it all together until the batter is smooth. This ensures all flavors blend nicely.
Creating the Molten Center
Now comes the fun part! Take 2 tablespoons of chocolate hazelnut spread. Carefully spoon it into the center of your batter. Don’t mix it in; you want that gooey center later.
Microwave your mug on high for 40-60 seconds. Start checking at 40 seconds. The cake should rise but remain a bit soft in the middle. It will continue to cook as it cools.
Once done, take the mug out carefully. It will be hot! Let it cool for a minute. For extra crunch, top it with chopped hazelnuts. Enjoy your tasty treat!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Mug Cake
To get the best mug cake, timing is key. Start checking your cake at 40 seconds. The cake should rise but stay soft in the center. If it cooks too long, it may turn dry. Each microwave varies, so adjust the time as needed.
Prevent over-mixing to keep the cake light. Mix until the ingredients just combine. Lumps are okay; they will disappear during cooking. A gentle touch makes all the difference.
Customizing the Recipe
You can add your twist to this mug cake. Try different toppings, like whipped cream, fresh fruit, or chocolate chips. These will add flavor and fun.
If you have allergies, substitutions work well. Use gluten-free flour instead of regular flour. Swap the chocolate hazelnut spread for sunbutter or almond butter for a nut-free option. These swaps keep the cake tasty and safe.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your mug cake with ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The cold and warm mix makes each bite special. Enjoy this treat after dinner or as a quick snack. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or a fun dessert with friends.
Pro Tips
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your milk and oil are at room temperature to help the batter mix smoothly and rise evenly.
- Don’t Overcook: Microwave times can vary, so start checking your mug cake at 40 seconds to avoid a dry texture.
- Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add other toppings like whipped cream or fresh berries for a delicious twist.
- Try Different Flavors: Swap the chocolate hazelnut spread for peanut butter or almond butter for a unique flavor experience.
Variations
Different Flavor Profiles
You can change the flavor of your mug cake by adding spices. A sprinkle of cinnamon gives it a warm, cozy touch. You can also add a dash of nutmeg for a unique twist.
Using different extracts can add depth to your cake. Try almond extract for a nutty flavor or peppermint for a festive touch. These small changes can make a big impact.
Alternative Sweeteners
If you want to cut back on sugar, you can use honey or maple syrup instead. These natural sweeteners add a lovely flavor and moisture to your cake. Just remember, you may need to adjust the other liquids in the recipe a bit.
For sugar-free options, look for sugar substitutes. Stevia or erythritol can work well. They keep your cake sweet without the sugar rush.
Nut-Free Versions
If you want a nut-free mug cake, you can substitute the hazelnut spread. Try using chocolate spread or even peanut butter if you can have peanuts.
You can also top your mug cake with different treats. Use crushed cookies, sprinkles, or even fresh fruit for added flavor and texture. These toppings add fun and taste, making your mug cake even more special.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your leftover mug cake fresh, cover it with plastic wrap. This helps to keep it moist. You can also use an airtight container. If you have extra cake, you can refrigerate it for up to two days. But be careful! The cake can dry out if left too long.
Can you refrigerate or freeze? Yes, you can refrigerate your mug cake. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and put it in a freezer bag. It can last for about a month in the freezer.
Reheating Instructions
To warm up the mug cake, use the microwave. Heat it for about 10-15 seconds. If it feels cold, add a few more seconds. Be careful not to overheat it. This can dry out the cake.
To maintain texture, cover the cake with a damp paper towel before reheating. This helps keep it soft and moist. Enjoy your warm, gooey chocolate hazelnut mug cake just like fresh!
FAQs
How long does the chocolate hazelnut mug cake last?
The chocolate hazelnut mug cake is best eaten fresh. If you have leftovers, store it in an airtight container. Keep it at room temperature for one day. You can also refrigerate it for up to three days. Just remember, the longer it sits, the less fluffy it gets.
Can I make this cake without a microwave?
Yes, you can! If you don’t have a microwave, bake the mug cake in a regular oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the batter into a small oven-safe dish. Bake for 10-15 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick. It should come out clean when the cake is ready.
What can I use instead of chocolate hazelnut spread?
If you want to try something different, there are many options. You can use peanut butter for a nutty taste. Almond butter is also great. For a fruity twist, try a spoonful of raspberry jam. Each choice adds a unique flavor to your cake.
Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
To make this mug cake vegan, swap a few ingredients. Use almond milk or oat milk in place of dairy milk. Replace the egg with one tablespoon of applesauce or a flax egg. You can also use a plant-based chocolate hazelnut spread. This way, you can enjoy a tasty treat without animal products.
This blog post covered how to make a delicious chocolate hazelnut mug cake. You learned about the right ingredients, from flour to hazelnuts, and followed step-by-step instructions. We explored tips for perfecting your cake and how to customize it to your taste. Plus, we discussed storage and reheating, so you can enjoy leftovers too.
This mug cake is quick and easy, perfect for any chocolate lover. Enjoy your sweet trea
