Protein Powder Mug Cake
This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read my disclosure.I love making this healthy chocolate protein powder mug cake because it is so easy and ready in just 6 minutes. The fudgy texture and chocolate flavor always satisfy my cravings. The best part for me is that each serving has 19 grams of protein, and I can easily make it vegan or gluten free.
On the days when I do not want to drink a protein shake, I make this high protein chocolate mug cake instead. A protein shake in cake form always sounds so much better to me. Ha! I enjoy having it as a post workout snack or a healthy dessert because it has enough protein to give me energy and keep me full.
When I take a bite of this healthy chocolate mug cake, I still cannot believe how fast it comes together. All I have to do is add the ingredients, mix, and microwave, and in just minutes I have a warm chocolatey treat, just like my Pumpkin Protein Balls or my Mango Protein Smoothie. Yum!
👩🏽🍳 Why I Love This Recipe
Last night, I needed a quick fix for a chocolate craving, and I decided to make this recipe in just 6 minutes. While I mixed the ingredients in the mugs, my kids were finishing homework at the kitchen table, sneaking glances at the chocolate batter and asking when they could taste it. When I handed them their warm mug cakes topped with berries and a little peanut butter, they happily dug in.
To make this healthy choco-treat I use chocolate protein powder, all-purpose flour, and almond milk to make the batter, then I stir in the rest of the ingredients to enhance the flavor. It cooks in just 1 minute in the microwave, and the texture comes out warm, fluffy, and chocolatey every time. I love that I can make it vegan, gluten-free, or even lower in sugar, and it still delivers a satisfying treat for anyone.
In my opinion, this is one of the best mug cakes for anyone who wants a quick and healthy snack. During our last visit to my parents, I made a batch for them to try, and even my mom, who is skeptical of “healthy desserts”, enjoyed it. I hope you give it a try.
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🥘 Ingredients
This chocolate protein mug cake is a great way for me to quickly satisfy my sweet tooth. Here is everything I need to make this healthy cake in a mug.
Flours: I use all purpose flour for a classic texture, and I sometimes choose whole wheat flour for more fiber. For a gluten free version, I use oat flour, almond flour, or coconut flour, and I blend almond meal into a fine powder if I need to.
Protein Powders: I use chocolate protein powder because it blends well and adds a rich flavor. Whey protein and plant based protein powders both work, and when I only have vanilla protein powder, I add extra cocoa powder for a deeper chocolate taste.
Sweeteners: I add brown sugar to bring sweetness and moisture to the mug cake. White sugar, coconut sugar, raw honey, and pure maple syrup all work as simple substitutes.
Chocolate Ingredients: I use cocoa powder or cacao powder for the chocolate base and add chocolate chips when I want a double chocolate version. Dark chocolate chips or vegan chocolate chips both taste great.
Leavening: I use baking powder to help the mug cake rise and stay fluffy in the microwave.
Milks: I add unsweetened almond milk to keep the mug cake balanced. Oat milk, coconut milk, soy milk, and dairy milk are all good options.
Fats: I use a light tasting olive oil, and I sometimes switch to coconut oil, melted butter, melted vegan butter, or melted ghee when I want a slightly different flavor.
Optional Add Ins: I add a pinch of salt and a splash of vanilla extract when I want more depth in the mug cake.
🔪 How To Make
This protein powder mug cake recipe is easy to follow and quick to make. Here is how I make this healthy treat:
Add Dry Ingredients: I add the flour, protein powder, sugar, cocoa powder, and baking powder to a microwave-safe mug or small bowl. I mix everything well.
Add Wet Ingredients: I add the remaining ingredients and stir until the batter is smooth.
Cook The Cake: I cook the cake batter in the microwave for 60 seconds. I check if my microwave protein mug cake is done by inserting a skewer. If it comes out clean, it’s cooked; if not, I continue cooking in 10-second bursts until it’s fully cooked.
Serve: I like to serve this delicious dessert warm, topped with whipped cream, whipped coconut cream, or ice cream. I also enjoy eating my healthy chocolate cake in a mug on its own.
💭 Expert Tips
My #1 Secret Tip for this recipe is to mix the dry ingredients very well before you add the wet ones. I take a minute to stir everything together and break up any little clumps with my spoon. This small step makes the batter smooth and helps the mug cake rise evenly in the microwave. When the dry ingredients are well mixed, the cake turns out soft and fluffy instead of heavy.
Other Tips To Keep In Mind:
- High Quality Protein Powder: I choose a protein powder that tastes good and mixes smoothly. It makes a big difference in both the flavor and the texture.
- Cooling Time: I let the mug cake cool for a few minutes before I eat it. This helps the cake set and keeps the center from becoming too soft.
- Mug Size Check: I always make sure my mug is microwave safe and large enough to hold at least 1 cup of batter. This keeps the cake from spilling over while it cooks.
- Microwave Timing: I avoid overcooking the mug cake because it can become rubbery. I cook it in short bursts and check the center until it looks just right.
- Fudgy Center Trick: I slightly undercook the mug cake when I want a soft and fudgy middle. This keeps the center warm and moist.
📖 Variations
Here are some of my favorite ways to switch things up and try different variations of this chocolate protein mug cake.
Chocolate Peanut Butter: I like to add 1 tablespoon of peanut butter to this mug cake recipe. I use creamy, crunchy, or even peanut butter powders to add extra flavor and protein. I can also use almond butter if I prefer.
Mint Chocolate Cup: I stir in 1 half teaspoon of peppermint extract. This gives the mug cake a bright mint taste that reminds me of a chocolate mint treat.
Mocha Protein Cake: I mix in 1 teaspoon of instant coffee with the dry ingredients. The coffee deepens the chocolate flavor and adds a warm hint of mocha. This one is my favorite!
👨👩👧 Serving Suggestions
I like to enjoy this chocolate mug cake with protein powder right after making it. I usually add a dollop of my vegan whipped cream or a spoonful of my easy strawberry yogurt on the side. The creamy topping perfectly balances the rich, chocolatey flavor, making it taste extra indulgent while still being healthy and packed with protein.
🧊 Storage Directions
Refrigerating: I store the mug cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. I like to warm it slightly before serving so the texture stays soft.
Freezing: I do not freeze this mug cake because the texture changes and becomes dry once it thaws.
Reheating: I reheat the mug cake in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds. This warms it through without overcooking it.
❓Recipe FAQs
What can I do if my mug cake turns out dry?
When my mug cake turns out dry, it is almost always because it stayed in the microwave a little too long. Microwaves cook very fast, so even 5 extra seconds can change the texture. I also make sure I add the oil or melted butter, because that small amount of fat keeps the cake soft and moist. If I want an extra tender version, I add a teaspoon of almond milk after cooking and let it soak in for a moment.
Why is my mug cake not rising?
When my mug cake does not rise, it is usually because the baking powder is not fresh or the dry ingredients were not mixed evenly. I gently stir the flour, protein powder, cocoa, sugar, and baking powder until everything looks even. This helps the baking powder spread through the batter so the cake rises nicely in the microwave.
How do I avoid overflow in the microwave?
I always use a large microwave safe mug that can hold at least 1 cup of liquid. This gives the batter room to rise without spilling over the sides. If the mug is smaller, I cook the batter in two mini mugs instead so everything stays clean and easy.
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🎥 Watch How to Make It
Protein Powder Mug Cake
I love making this healthy chocolate protein powder mug cake because it is so easy and ready in just 6 minutes. The fudgy texture and chocolate flavor always satisfy my cravings. The best part for me is that each serving has 19 grams of protein, and I can easily make it vegan or gluten free.
Servings: 1
Calories: 378kcal
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp chocolate protein powder
- 1.5 tsp brown sugar or coconut sugar (can use up to 1 tbsp sugar for a more decadent cake!)
- 1 tsp cocoa powder
- ¼ tsp baking powder
- 3 tbsp almond milk
- 1 tbsp light tasting extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tsp chocolate chips (can use up to 2 tbsp for a more decadent cake!)
Instructions
- To a microwave safe mug, add the flour, protein powder, sugar, cocoa powder and baking powder. Mix well.
- Next, add the remaining ingredients and stir until smooth.
- Cook in the microwave and cook for 60 seconds.
- Check if the mug cake is cooked by inserting a skewer and if it comes out clean it’s cooked if not continue to cook in 10 second bursts until cooked through.
- Serve warm topped with whipped cream, whipped coconut cream or enjoy on it’s own.
Notes
- My #1 Secret Tip for this recipe is to mix the dry ingredients very well before you add the wet ones. I take a minute to stir everything together and break up any little clumps with my spoon. This small step makes the batter smooth and helps the mug cake rise evenly in the microwave. When the dry ingredients are well mixed, the cake turns out soft and fluffy instead of heavy.
- High Quality Protein Powder: I choose a protein powder that tastes good and mixes smoothly. It makes a big difference in both the flavor and the texture.
- Cooling Time: I let the mug cake cool for a few minutes before I eat it. This helps the cake set and keeps the center from becoming too soft.
- Mug Size Check: I always make sure my mug is microwave safe and large enough to hold at least 1 cup of batter. This keeps the cake from spilling over while it cooks.
- Microwave Timing: I avoid overcooking the mug cake because it can become rubbery. I cook it in short bursts and check the center until it looks just right.
- Fudgy Center Trick: I slightly undercook the mug cake when I want a soft and fudgy middle. This keeps the center warm and moist.
Nutrition
Serving: 1mug cake | Calories: 378kcal | Carbohydrates: 37g | Protein: 19g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 11g | Cholesterol: 33mg | Sodium: 177mg | Potassium: 391mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 12g
Hello, chocolaty, healthy goodness! 🙂 I need to make this asap.
Yes!! You will love this recipe Carrie!
Yes! Loved this as a quick sweet treat in the evening, especially as I am trying to up my protein.
Thanks Irena! So happy to hear that! 🙂
This is awesome! I’m not much of a meat eater so I am always looking to get more protein into my diet. I can’t believe that this is actually good for you too!
Totally!! Enjoy! 🙂
I’m looking forward to trying this. The fact that you can get extra protein into your diet by eating delicious cake is amazing!
Yes!! It’s like the best of both worlds!! You will love this recipe!
This mug cake was so good! I love that it’s packed with protein, too – the perfect portion-controlled after workout treat.
Thank you so much Stephanie! So glad you liked it!