Nutella microwave mug cake that phrase alone has saved my sweet tooth more times than I can count. It’s the kind of dessert I turn to when I’ve got no flour, no time or want a simpler 2 ingredient Nutella mug cake, and only one clean spoon left in the drawer. Just a mug, a microwave, and a craving that can’t wait.
The very first time I made a Nutella microwave mug cake, it was one of those tired Tuesday nights when I needed something rich, fast, and warm. I stood in my kitchen a quiet little corner in Oregon filled with the scent of vanilla and yesterday’s coffee and stared at the jar of Nutella like it was speaking to me. I remembered how my grandmother used to say, “The best desserts come from what you already have.” She was right.
I cracked an egg into a mug, added a few spoonfuls of Nutella, and sprinkled in just a pinch of baking powder. Less than a minute later, the microwave dinged, and magic happened. The cake had risen, soft on the edges, gooey in the middle a pocket of pure chocolate-hazelnut joy.
Since that night, this recipe has become a staple in my life and on my blog. It’s my answer to long days, late nights, and last-minute sweet tooth emergencies. The Nutella microwave mug cake is more than just a quick fix. It’s warm comfort in a cup, made from the most unexpected simplicity.
In the sections ahead, I’ll walk you through my exact recipe, the secrets to getting that perfectly gooey center, and a few smart twists to make it your own. So grab your favorite mug the one with the chip in the rim and the memories in the glaze and let’s make some dessert magic.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Nutella Microwave Mug Cake: Gooey Goodness in Just 60 Seconds
This gooey Nutella microwave mug cake comes together in just one minute with three ingredients — the perfect quick dessert for chocolate lovers.
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 to 2 servings
Ingredients
¼ cup/75 grams chocolate hazelnut spread (preferably Nutella)
1 large egg
¼ teaspoon baking powder
Vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt, for serving (optional)
Instructions
In a microwave-safe mug or ramekin (at least 12 oz), whisk together Nutella and egg until smooth.
Sprinkle in the baking powder and whisk until fully combined.
Microwave on high for 40 to 60 seconds, until edges are set and the center remains slightly soft.
Serve warm, topped with a spoonful of ice cream or Greek yogurt if desired.
Enjoy immediately.
Notes
For a gooier, lava-cake-style center, microwave for 40–45 seconds. For a firmer texture, go up to 60 seconds. Use a wide mug to avoid overflow. Avoid over-mixing after adding baking powder to keep texture light. For flavor variation, add a pinch of cinnamon or sea salt.
- Prep Time: 0 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Mug Cakes
- Method: Microwave
- Cuisine: American
The Magic Behind a Nutella Microwave Mug Cake
Just Three Ingredients, One Mug, and a Microwave
The beauty of a Nutella microwave mug cake is that it doesn’t ask much from you no sifting, no special tools, and absolutely no oven. Just a jar of Nutella, one egg, a pinch of baking powder, and your favorite mug. In less than five minutes, you go from craving to cake.
Here’s exactly what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Nutella (or chocolate hazelnut spread) | ¼ cup (75g) |
| Large egg | 1 |
| Baking powder | ¼ teaspoon |
| Optional toppings | Vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt |
This mug cake works so well because Nutella already contains most of what a traditional cake needs fat from the oil, sweetness from the sugar, and cocoa for flavor. The egg gives the structure, and baking powder adds just enough lift to create that spongey-but-gooey texture. It’s a bit like a lava cake and brownie had a microwave baby.
When I first tested this version of the Nutella microwave mug cake, I was amazed by how balanced the texture was. If you cook it for 40–50 seconds, you’ll get a slightly underdone center gooey, rich, and perfect with a scoop of ice cream. A few seconds longer and it firms into a spongier, brownie-like bite.
It’s the kind of baking magic that feels too good to be true but isn’t. I’ve shared this one endlessly with readers on RitaMugCakes, where I believe the best recipes are the ones that anyone can make, any time, with what they already have. That’s why this Nutella microwave mug cake continues to be one of the most viewed and recreated recipes on the blog.
Nutella already carries the fat, cocoa, and sugar as explained in the original Nutella mug cake recipe.
💡 No-Flour Option: Skip the flour for a gooier, gluten-free Nutella mug cake version
Why Nutella Does All the Heavy Lifting
Most mug cakes rely on flour, sugar, butter, and cocoa. But this Nutella microwave mug cake skips all of that because Nutella is doing triple duty. Its thick, spreadable texture becomes the batter base, providing both fat and sugar while delivering that signature hazelnut-chocolate depth.
Baking powder is the secret weapon. Without it, the cake comes out dense and flat. Just a ¼ teaspoon gives it enough lift to mimic a flourless chocolate cake. And the egg? It binds everything together and adds protein to hold the structure, no flour needed.
Microwaving does more than save time. It locks in moisture, especially if you slightly undercook the cake. That’s what gives the Nutella microwave mug cake its molten, lava-like center a bite that melts in your mouth and warms your soul.
Since this recipe is flourless, the texture is dense but never dry. It’s perfect when you need something indulgent but effortless. And with just three ingredients, the Nutella microwave mug cake also doubles as a clever gluten-free option for anyone avoiding wheat.
Whether you’re baking for yourself or surprising someone with a sweet nightcap, this is the kind of dessert that turns a regular day into a small celebration. It’s one of the fastest ways I know to bring comfort into a kitchen — and that’s exactly what Rita’s recipes are all about.
Pro Tips & Texture Secrets for the Perfect Mug Cake
Gooey Center or Fluffy Bite? Your Timing Matters
The key to the perfect Nutella microwave mug cake lies in your timing. Microwave it for 40 seconds and you’ll get a soft, molten center, think lava cake. Let it go for 55–60 seconds, and it turns into a fluffier, more cake-like treat. There’s no one “right” texture, it all depends on what kind of dessert you’re craving.
When I’m in the mood for something cozy and indulgent, I undercook it slightly and top it with vanilla ice cream. The cold cream against the warm Nutella center? Absolute bliss. If I’m sharing or want a cleaner presentation, I give it the full cook time so it firms up enough to release from the mug and plate nicely.
Another tip? Let the batter rest for about a minute before microwaving. This helps the baking powder activate evenly, giving your Nutella microwave mug cake a consistent rise and tender crumb.
If your cake turns out rubbery, it was likely overcooked or overmixed. Microwave ovens vary in wattage, so it’s always better to start on the low side and increase in short bursts. You can always add time, but you can’t un-cook a cake.
“If you’re baking egg-free, try the Nutella mug cake no egg for the same gooey texture without the eggs.”
Getting Creative Without Losing Simplicity
While the classic Nutella microwave mug cake is all about simplicity, it’s also the perfect canvas for personalization. Want to enhance the richness? Add a pinch of sea salt or a splash of vanilla extract to the batter. Want crunch? Stir in a few chopped hazelnuts or dark chocolate chips.
For a breakfast twist, you can even swirl in a spoonful of peanut butter or top it with banana slices. One of my favorite variations? A dash of cinnamon and a tiny pinch of espresso powder, it deepens the cocoa flavor and makes the Nutella feel gourmet.
But keep this in mind: the more you add, the more you affect the structure. Stick to small, lightweight add-ins so you don’t weigh down the batter. After all, the charm of a Nutella microwave mug cake is how effortlessly it comes together.
You can find dozens of topping ideas and mix-ins across my mug cake recipe archive, where every recipe is designed to be creative, comforting, and doable in a pinch.
Whether you’re keeping it classic or dressing it up, every version of this mug cake is a chance to pause and treat yourself. And sometimes, that’s exactly what dessert should be simple, warm, and made just for you.
Flavor Variations, Seasonal Twists & Toppings
The joy of learning how to make a Nutella microwave mug cake is that it’s endlessly customizable. Once you master the base recipe, you can twist it to match your cravings, the season, or even your mood.
🍫 1. Double Chocolate Mug Cake
Add 1 teaspoon of cocoa powder or a handful of chocolate chips to the batter. The extra cocoa deepens the flavor, while the chips melt into gooey pockets of chocolate heaven.
☕ 2. Mocha Nutella Cake
Stir in ¼ teaspoon of espresso powder or instant coffee. The coffee enhances the chocolate notes and adds a subtle, sophisticated edge perfect for pairing with your morning latte.
🧂 3. Salted Caramel Nutella Mug Cake
Swirl in a teaspoon of caramel sauce before microwaving, then sprinkle sea salt on top after cooking. That salty-sweet contrast is bakery-level indulgence in one mug.
🍌 4. Banana Hazelnut Mug Cake
Mash half a banana into the batter for natural sweetness and extra moisture. This version tastes like a cross between banana bread and brownies soft, dense, and completely addictive.
🌰 5. Nutty Crunch Cake
Add crushed hazelnuts, almonds, or walnuts before microwaving. The contrast between the soft cake and crunchy nuts makes every bite exciting.
❄️ 6. Holiday Peppermint Twist
For a winter treat, add a drop of peppermint extract and sprinkle crushed candy canes on top. It’s festive, refreshing, and a fun twist to serve at Christmas gatherings.
When it comes to toppings, the sky’s the limit:
– Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for cool contrast
– A drizzle of melted chocolate or hazelnut syrup for richness
– Sliced strawberries or raspberries for brightness
– Powdered sugar for a bakery-style finish
I always tell readers this: the best part about mug cakes is how personal they are. Every topping, every tweak, every spoonful becomes uniquely yours.
If you want to go deeper into seasonal flavors, try pairing this with my Gingerbread Mug Cake in winter or Blueberry Protein Mug Cake in summer both capture the same spirit of easy, heartfelt comfort.
Make-Ahead, Serving, and Gifting Ideas
The Nutella microwave mug cake may be a quick dessert, but it’s also one of the easiest homemade gifts and cozy rituals you can create.
🎁 DIY Mug Cake Gift Jars
Fill small jars with pre-measured dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, cocoa if desired). Add a handwritten tag with instructions:
“Add ¼ cup Nutella and 1 egg. Stir, microwave for 50 seconds, and smile.”
Wrap the jar with ribbon and tuck it into a mug. It’s a thoughtful, budget-friendly gift that feels personal — dessert and comfort in one.
🍴 Serving Ideas
Serve your mug cake in style by transferring it onto a small dessert plate and topping it with a scoop of ice cream, whipped cream, or Greek yogurt. Add a sprinkle of cocoa powder or chopped nuts for that “I planned this” look even if it only took a minute.
For a romantic dessert night, share two mugs topped with fresh raspberries and powdered sugar. Or host a “mug cake bar” with toppings like peanut butter drizzle, coconut flakes, and crushed cookies.
🕒 Storage Tips
If you make your Nutella microwave mug cake ahead, cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Reheat in the microwave for 10 seconds before serving. It also freezes surprisingly well for up to a week just let it thaw before warming.
🌙 Cozy Moments & Memories
My favorite time to make this cake? Late nights after writing or editing recipes when my kitchen is quiet and the Oregon rain hits the window. It’s a one-minute act of self-care warm, fragrant, and made for no one else but me.
And that’s what this dessert represents: the power of small, beautiful moments. You don’t need an occasion to make it special. The moment you lift that spoon, breathe in the chocolate aroma, and taste the first bite you’ve already created a celebration.
Because in the end, the Nutella microwave mug cake isn’t just about convenience. It’s about pausing for joy.
Conclusion: When Sweet Moments Rise in a Mug
The Nutella microwave mug cake proves something we often forget that comfort doesn’t need to be complicated. With just three simple ingredients and a single mug, you can create a dessert that warms your hands, fills your kitchen with cocoa-hazelnut joy, and satisfies your soul in under a minute.
In my kitchen, this mug cake has become a ritual. It’s what I turn to after long days, quiet evenings, and spontaneous cravings. Sometimes I share it. Sometimes I don’t. But every time, it feels like I’m choosing kindness — a small act of care that starts with a spoon and ends in a smile.
So whether you’re new to baking or just need a fast, delicious treat, let this Nutella microwave mug cake be your sweet escape. Keep it simple, make it your own, and most of all, enjoy it warm.
You can find more quick, cozy desserts like this on RitaMugCakes, where every recipe is tested, tasted, and shared with heart.
Because as my grandmother always said, “Dessert is love you can taste.”
Want a full guide with tips and variations? Here’s how to make a Nutella mug cake from scratch.
Discover more cozy dessert recipes in minutes, comfort and sweetness await in every mug.
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👉 Find me on Instagram to explore more 5-minute no-bake dessert ideas, simple, sweet, and made to warm your day.
FAQs & Fixes: Troubleshooting Your Nutella Microwave Mug Cake
Why is my Nutella microwave mug cake rubbery?
Rubbery mug cake usually means one of two things: overcooked or overmixed batter. Microwave heat is intense and quick, and just a few extra seconds can turn your soft cake into something chewy. For that ideal gooey center, start with 40 seconds and adjust by 5-second increments as needed. And don’t over-whisk mix only until your batter is smooth. That’s the sweet spot where the Nutella microwave mug cake stays tender and soft.
Can I make a Nutella microwave mug cake without baking powder?
Technically, yes but the result will be denser, more like a brownie than a fluffy cake. Baking powder adds just enough rise to create a light, sponge-like texture without flour. If you skip it, your Nutella microwave mug cake will still be delicious, just a bit more molten and rich. I’ve tested both versions, and while I love the fluff, some people prefer the dense, fudgy finish.
What’s the best mug for microwave mug cakes?
Choose a 12 to 14 oz microwave-safe mug that has a wide mouth and thick walls. This gives the cake room to rise and helps it cook evenly. Avoid mugs that are too tall and narrow they trap heat at the bottom and often lead to undercooked centers. In my kitchen, I always reach for the same oversized mug I use for my birthday cake in a mug, because it’s wide, deep, and gives perfect results every time.
What should I serve with a Nutella microwave mug cake?
This cake is incredible on its own, but adding a little something on top takes it to another level. My favorites? Vanilla ice cream for contrast, Greek yogurt for tang, or even just a dusting of powdered sugar. You can also drizzle caramel, add sliced bananas, or top with toasted hazelnuts for texture. The best part about a Nutella microwave mug cake is that it’s customizable and every topping tells a different story.
Can I make Nutella mug cake without flour?
Yes! You can make a Nutella mug cake without flour by simply using Nutella, an egg (or milk for an egg-free version), and a touch of baking powder.
This flourless version turns out extra gooey and rich ideal if you’re craving a quick gluten-free chocolate treat in just 2 minutes.
Is this Nutella mug cake really a dessert easy to make?
Absolutely — this is a dessert easy enough for anyone to make in just a minute. I just mix everything in a mug, microwave it, and it’s ready before I even crave something else.