Jamie Oliver’s Mug Cake is the ultimate quick and easy dessert for satisfying sweet cravings. Made in just a few minutes using simple ingredients, this single-serve cake is cooked in the microwave for a soft and gooey treat.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 5 minutes.
- Minimal ingredients: Uses common pantry staples.
- Single-serve: Perfect for portion control.
- Customizable: Add your favorite flavors or toppings.
- Mess-free: Made and served in the same mug.

What Is Jamie Oliver Mug Cake?
A mug cake is a simple dessert made by mixing cake batter directly in a mug and cooking it in the microwave. It’s a no-fuss way to enjoy a delicious cake without the need for an oven.
Jamie Oliver Mug Cake Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons plain flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder (optional for a chocolate version)
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: Chocolate chips, nuts, or a dollop of peanut butter
Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver Mug Cake
Step 1: Choose Your Mug
- Use a microwave-safe mug that holds at least 300ml (10 oz) to prevent overflow.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- Add flour, sugar, cocoa powder (if using), baking powder, and a pinch of salt to the mug. Stir with a spoon or fork to combine.
Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients
- Stir in the milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until a smooth batter forms. Ensure no lumps remain.
Step 4: Add Optional Toppings
- If desired, stir in chocolate chips, nuts, or a dollop of peanut butter for extra flavor.
Step 5: Microwave the Cake
- Place the mug in the microwave and cook on high for 1-2 minutes. Check after 1 minute and continue in 15-second intervals until the cake is set but still moist.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Let the mug cake cool for 1-2 minutes before digging in. Enjoy directly from the mug or transfer to a plate.

What to Serve with Jamie Oliver Mug Cake
- Ice cream: Add a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream on top.
- Whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream makes it extra indulgent.
- Fresh fruit: Serve with sliced strawberries or raspberries.
- Drizzle: Top with chocolate sauce, caramel, or honey.
Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver Mug Cake
- Don’t overfill: Fill the mug only halfway to allow room for the cake to rise.
- Check for doneness: The cake should look set on top but still moist. Avoid overcooking.
- Customize flavors: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or instant coffee for variety.
- Use the right mug: Ensure your mug is microwave-safe and large enough to prevent spillage.
- Make it richer: Add a small square of chocolate or caramel in the center for a gooey filling.
Variations of Jamie Oliver Mug Cake
- Vanilla mug cake: Skip the cocoa powder and add a bit more vanilla extract.
- Peanut butter swirl: Add a teaspoon of peanut butter and swirl it into the batter.
- Berry twist: Fold in fresh or frozen berries for a fruity version.
- Nutella center: Add a dollop of Nutella in the middle before microwaving.
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free flour for a celiac-friendly treat.
How to Store Leftovers Jamie Oliver Mug Cake?
- Refrigerate properly: If you have leftovers, cover the mug with cling film and refrigerate for up to 1 day.
- Reheat: Warm the cake in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving.
Nutrition Value (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
FAQs
Can I make a mug cake without eggs?
Yes, this recipe doesn’t require eggs, making it easy and light. The combination of baking powder and milk helps the cake rise and stay moist.
How do I prevent the mug cake from being dry?
Ensure you don’t overcook it. Start with 1 minute of microwaving, then check every 15 seconds until it’s just set but still moist on top.
Can I use self-raising flour instead of plain flour?
Yes, you can use self-raising flour, but omit the baking powder since self-raising flour already contains leavening agents.
Can I make this mug cake vegan?
Yes, substitute dairy milk with almond, oat, or soy milk, and use a neutral oil like coconut oil instead of butter for a vegan-friendly version.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s Mug Cake is a quick and satisfying dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for a chocolatey treat or a simple vanilla cake, this recipe is versatile, delicious, and incredibly easy to make. Try it today and enjoy a warm, homemade dessert in minutes!
More Jamie Oliver Recipes
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Jamie Oliver Mug Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 2
- Total Time: 7 minutes
- Yield: 1 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Microwave cooking
- Cuisine: British
Description
A mug cake is a simple dessert made by mixing cake batter directly in a mug and cooking it in the microwave. It’s a no-fuss way to enjoy a delicious cake without the need for an oven.
Ingredients
-
- 4 tablespoons plain flour
-
- 2 tablespoons sugar
-
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder (optional for a chocolate version)
-
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
-
- Pinch of salt
-
- 3 tablespoons milk
-
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or melted butter
-
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
-
- Optional: Chocolate chips, nuts, or a dollop of peanut butter
Instructions
Step 1: Choose Your Mug
-
- Use a microwave-safe mug that holds at least 300ml (10 oz) to prevent overflow.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
-
- Add flour, sugar, cocoa powder (if using), baking powder, and a pinch of salt to the mug. Stir with a spoon or fork to combine.
Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients
-
- Stir in the milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until a smooth batter forms. Ensure no lumps remain.
Step 4: Add Optional Toppings
-
- If desired, stir in chocolate chips, nuts, or a dollop of peanut butter for extra flavor.
Step 5: Microwave the Cake
-
- Place the mug in the microwave and cook on high for 1-2 minutes. Check after 1 minute and continue in 15-second intervals until the cake is set but still moist.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
-
- Let the mug cake cool for 1-2 minutes before digging in. Enjoy directly from the mug or transfer to a plate.