Protein Mug Cake

This protein mug cake takes just 5 minutes to make! It is quick, easy, and healthy. This mini chocolate cake has a whopping 34 grams of protein. It has a rich and decadent chocolate flavor. This recipe is so simple. Mix together the ingredients, microwave, and enjoy. It is great for an easy breakfast, filling afternoon snack, or healthier dessert!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are many reasons why you’ll love this protein mug cake recipe!

• It’s quick and easy to make.
• Just mix the ingredients together in a mug and microwave for a minute.
• This recipe truly takes only 5 minutes maximum.
• It is high in plant based protein.
• This individual dessert is great for one person. Try this High Protein Chocolate Mousse too!
• A serving of this cake has 34 grams of protein, which can help you build and repair muscle tissue. Serve with some Cottage Cheese Ice Cream!
• It is low in calories. A serving of this cake is less than 350 calories. It is a guilt free dessert!
• This mug cake is versatile. You can customize this recipe to your liking by adding different flavors and toppings.
• This recipe is naturally gluten free, egg free, dairy free, and refined sugar free. A little coconut sugar and naturally sweetened chocolate chips add sweetness.
• Check out this Vegan Mug Brownie for another microwave dessert!

What is a Mug Cake?

A mug cake is a single serving cake that is cooked in a mug in the microwave.

Mug cakes are typically made with simple ingredients like flour, sugar, eggs, and milk.

They are a quick and easy way to enjoy a sweet treat without having to turn on the oven.

This specific recipe is higher in protein and lower in sugar. It is also made without white flour and without eggs.

Ingredients & Substitutions

These are the main ingredients and substitutions for this protein mug cake. Scroll down to the recipe card for full ingredients list and instructions.

Oat flour is a great healthier flour option. If needed, replace with 3 tablespoons almond flour. Almond flour is grain free and Paleo.

Cocoa powder adds the classic chocolate flavor.

Use vanilla or chocolate protein powder. I highly recommend using one with a good flavor. Sometimes protein powders have a bad aftertaste. In addition, whey protein does not bake well. For that reason, I recommend pea protein or another plant based protein powder.

Baking powder helps leaven this mug cake slightly.

Coconut sugar adds a natural sweetness. This popular Paleo sugar alternative is great for this healthy mug cake recipe.

Dairy free milk helps thin out the batter. Use almond milk, coconut milk, cashew milk, or coconut milk.

Lastly, mini chocolate chips add an indulgent flavor!

Taste & Texture

This protein mug cake tastes like a rich and decadent chocolate cake.

In addition, the texture is light and fluffy, with a slightly chewy crust around the edges.

The protein powder gives the cake a subtle boost of protein, but it does not overpower the flavor.

How to Make

Step 1

First, add all ingredients to a mug or ramekin.

Step 2

Stir to combine.

Step 3

Then, microwave on high for 60 seconds. Then, microwave in additional 10 second increments as needed.

Step 4

Carefully remove the mug cake from the microwave. Immediately sprinkle some chocolate chips on top.

Step 5

Finally, serve this high protein mug cake!

Expert Tips & Tricks

Here are a few tips and tricks for making the perfect protein mug cake.

Use a good quality protein powder. A high-quality protein powder will give your cake a better flavor and texture.

Use a protein powder that you enjoy the flavor of.

Do notovermix the batter. Overmixing can make the cake tough and rubbery.

Microwave the cake for the correct amount of time. If you microwave it for too long, the cake will be dry.

Since all microwaves are different, check the mug cake after 60 seconds. It may need slightly more time than that.

Use a mug cake when handling the mug or ramekin. It will be very hot.

As soon as the mug cake comes out of the microwave, sprinkle some chocolate chips on top. They become melty and gooey!

Flavor Variations & Add Ins

This protein mug cake recipe is just a starting point. You can customize it to your liking by adding different flavors and toppings. Here are a few ideas.

For a vanilla mug cake, use vanilla protein powder and vanilla extract. Omit the cocoa powder.

For a chocolate peanut butter mug cake, add 1 tablespoon of peanut butter to the batter. I love using all natural creamy peanut butter. Try this Peanut Butter Mug Cake!

For a strawberry mug cake, add 1/2 cup of fresh strawberries to the batter. Or, add in 1 tablespoon of ground up freeze dried strawberries.

For a banana mug cake, add half of a mashed banana to the batter.

You can also add different add-ins to this protein mug cake to make it even more decadent. Here are a few ideas.

• Chocolate chips
• Peanut butter chips
• Coconut flakes
• Sprinkles
• Nuts
• Fruit
• Crushed Oreo cookies
• Dried cranberries

How to Serve & Store

This chocolate protein mug cake is best served warm! Sprinkle some chocolate chips on top after microwaving.

You can top it with your favorite toppings, such as whipped cream, chocolate chips, or fruit.

I especially love it with some healthy ice cream on top!

I love making high protein desserts! Check out these Protein Banana Muffins, Vegan Protein Cookies, Protein Brownies, Protein Overnight Oats, and Protein Banana Bread.

For a high protein snack, make these Peanut Butter Protein Bars!

The cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, however it is best served fresh.

To reheat, microwave the cake for 10 to 15 seconds, or until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Equipment Needed

Oven Safe Ramekins: These 10 ounce ramekins are microwave safe and oven safe.

Mugs: These mugs are huge! They are sufficient in size for this recipe. Perfect for a protein cake in a mug!

Check out all of my kitchen favorites!

You May Also Like

• Paleo Brownies
• Oreo Mug Cake
• Mini Cheesecakes
• Cookies and Cream Cookies
• Oreo Donuts

If you make this protein mug cake recipe, I would really appreciate a review! You can find me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. Join my exclusive Facebook Group for a behind the scenes look. I would love for you to follow along!  For more ideas, check out these Dessert Recipes.

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