This Chocolate Protein Mug Cake is a rich, fudgy, single-serve treat made in just minutes using simple, high-protein ingredients. It’s perfect when I’m craving something chocolatey and satisfying without the sugar crash—ready in the microwave and ideal for a post-workout snack or healthy dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it hits the sweet spot between indulgent and nourishing. It’s packed with protein, comes together in one mug, and satisfies my chocolate cravings with a soft, cakey texture. Plus, it’s portion-controlled, quick, and completely customizable based on my protein powder or dietary needs.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Chocolate protein powder
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Cocoa powder
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Baking powder
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Milk (dairy or non-dairy)
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Egg (or flax egg for vegan)
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Maple syrup, honey, or sweetener of choice
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Optional: chocolate chips, nut butter, Greek yogurt, or vanilla extract
Directions
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In a microwave-safe mug, I whisk together the protein powder, cocoa powder, and baking powder.
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I add the egg, milk, and sweetener, then stir until smooth and well combined.
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I mix in any optional add-ins like chocolate chips or a spoonful of nut butter.
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I microwave the mug cake on high for 60–90 seconds, depending on my microwave’s power.
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I let it cool slightly before enjoying straight from the mug—or topping with yogurt or fruit.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 1 serving and takes just 5 minutes total from start to finish.
Variations
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I sometimes use vanilla protein powder and add extra cocoa for a brownie-like taste.
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Swapping the egg for mashed banana makes it egg-free and adds natural sweetness.
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A spoonful of peanut butter in the center creates a gooey core.
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I’ve added instant coffee or espresso powder for a mocha flavor boost.
Storage/Reheating
Since it’s a single-serve recipe, I usually eat it fresh. But if I make a batch ahead, I store it in the fridge (covered) for a day and reheat it in the microwave for about 20–30 seconds. It’s best enjoyed warm.
FAQs
What kind of protein powder should I use?
I use a whey or plant-based chocolate protein powder—either works well as long as it blends smoothly into batter.
Can I make it vegan?
Yes, I use a flax egg or mashed banana and plant-based milk, plus a dairy-free protein powder.
Why is my mug cake rubbery?
Overcooking can cause that. I microwave it in short bursts and stop once the center is just set for a softer texture.
Can I bake this instead of microwaving?
Yes, I bake it in an oven-safe ramekin at 350°F (175°C) for about 12–15 minutes.
Is it really filling?
It definitely is for me! The protein and optional toppings like nut butter or yogurt make it a satisfying snack or light meal.
Conclusion
This Chocolate Protein Mug Cake is a quick, delicious way to enjoy a chocolate fix while hitting my nutrition goals. It’s warm, gooey, and packed with protein—all made in just minutes with ingredients I usually have on hand. Whether I need a speedy dessert or a healthy post-workout treat, this mug cake always comes through.
Print
Chocolate Protein Mug Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Cook Time: 1–2 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Snack, Dessert
- Method: Microwave
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Chocolate Protein Mug Cake is a quick, high-protein dessert you can make in minutes using simple, wholesome ingredients. It’s the perfect single-serve, microwave-friendly treat for curbing chocolate cravings without derailing your nutrition goals.
Ingredients
- 1 scoop chocolate protein powder (whey or plant-based)
- 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ tsp baking powder
- 1 egg (or flax egg for vegan option)
- 3 tbsp milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 tbsp maple syrup, honey, or sweetener of choice
- Optional Add-ins:
- 1 tbsp chocolate chips
- 1 tsp nut butter (e.g. almond or peanut butter)
- ¼ tsp vanilla extract
- Greek yogurt or fresh fruit for topping
Instructions
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In a microwave-safe mug, whisk together the protein powder, cocoa powder, and baking powder.
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Add the egg, milk, and sweetener. Stir until fully combined into a smooth batter.
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Fold in any optional add-ins like chocolate chips or nut butter.
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Microwave on high for 60–90 seconds, checking after 60 seconds for doneness (center should be just set).
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Let cool slightly. Enjoy straight from the mug or top with yogurt, fruit, or more nut butter.
Notes
- Microwaves vary—start with 60 seconds and increase in 10-second increments to avoid overcooking.
- For a gooey center, undercook slightly or add a spoonful of nut butter to the middle before microwaving.
- Flax egg = 1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water, mixed and rested for 5 minutes.
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