Craving something sweet but don't want to turn on the oven? This nutella mug cake is your answer to those late-night dessert emergencies. It's the ultimate quick chocolate fix that delivers a gooey, rich center every single time.
This nutella mug cake takes just 5 minutes from start to finish. No mixer, no oven, no fuss; just one mug and a microwave for the easiest nutella mug cake you'll ever make.

Why This Dessert in a Mug Works Every Time
This nutella microwave mug cake has become my go-to dessert for a reason. Unlike traditional cakes that require precise measurements and timing, this homemade mug cake is forgiving and flexible. The chocolate hazelnut spread creates a naturally moist texture that's nearly impossible to mess up, even for beginner bakers.
What makes this nutella mug cake recipe stand out is its perfect balance of textures. You get a slightly firm top with a molten, gooey chocolate cake center that's absolutely irresistible. It pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or fresh berries. I've served this at casual dinner parties, and guests are always amazed that something so impressive takes less time than brewing coffee.
Jump to:
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Nutella
- Egg
- All-purpose flour
- Salt
Optional Add-ins
- Vanilla extract
- Milk
- Chocolate chips
- Chopped hazelnuts

See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Mug
- Choose a microwave-safe mug that holds at least 12 ounces; this prevents overflow
- Lightly grease the inside with butter or cooking spray
- Make sure your mug is completely dry before starting
Step 2: Mix the Batter
- Add 4 tablespoons of Nutella to your mug
- Crack in one egg and mix thoroughly with a fork until completely smooth
- Add 3 tablespoons of flour and a pinch of salt
- Stir until just combined; don't overmix or the cake becomes tough
- If using vanilla extract or milk, add it now and stir gently
Step 3: Microwave to Perfection
- Place your mug in the center of the microwave
- Cook on high power for 60-90 seconds (start with 60 seconds)
- Watch through the window; the cake will rise and look set on top
- Let it sit for 30 seconds before touching; it's extremely hot
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Check if the center is still slightly gooey; that's perfect for this nutella mug cake
- Add your favorite toppings like ice cream, whipped cream, or extra Nutella drizzle
- Serve immediately while it's warm for the best texture
Expert Cooking Tips
Master the Microwave Timing
Every microwave is different. Start with 60 seconds for a 1000-watt microwave. The cake should look set on top but still jiggle slightly in the center.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
- Don't use a mug that's too small; the batter rises and can overflow
- Never skip greasing the mug
- Don't overcook; a slightly gooey center is the goal for this nutella mug cake
- Mix thoroughly but gently
Texture Variations
- For a fudgier cake, reduce flour to 2 tablespoons
- For a fluffier texture, add ¼ teaspoon of baking powder
- For extra richness, stir in a teaspoon of melted butter
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
Dietary Modifications
If you're following a gluten-free diet, this easy dessert recipe adapts beautifully. Replace the all-purpose flour with equal parts almond flour or use 2 tablespoons of coconut flour (it absorbs more liquid, so you'll need less). For a low-carb version, use sugar-free chocolate hazelnut spread and substitute the flour with almond flour.
Flavor Twists for Your Quick Chocolate Fix
- Peanut Butter Swirl: Add a teaspoon of peanut butter on top before microwaving
- Espresso Boost: Mix in ½ teaspoon of instant coffee powder for a mocha version
- Mint Chocolate: Add a drop of peppermint extract
- Orange Zest: Stir in ¼ teaspoon of orange zest for a sophisticated touch
- Salted Caramel: Drizzle caramel sauce and sprinkle sea salt on top
Make It Even More Decadent
Press a piece of chocolate or a spoonful of peanut butter into the center of the batter before microwaving. This creates a molten center that oozes when you dig in. You can also layer the batter; add half, sprinkle chocolate chips, then add the remaining batter.
Equipment Recommendations
- 12-ounce microwave-safe ceramic mug ; the ideal size prevents overflow and ensures even cooking
- Fork or small whisk ; perfect for mixing this no oven dessert in tight spaces
- Measuring spoons ; accuracy matters even in this quick recipe
- Small silicone spatula ; helps scrape every bit of Nutella from the measuring spoon
- Microwave with rotating plate ; ensures even cooking for your single serve cake
- Ice cream scoop ; essential for topping this warm dessert
Budget-friendly tip: Any microwave-safe coffee mug works perfectly. Just make sure it's not too small and doesn't have any metallic paint or trim.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
Immediate Consumption
This nutella mug cake tastes best fresh from the microwave when the center is still warm and gooey.
Refrigeration Guidelines
- Store covered mug in the refrigerator for up to 2 days
- Reheat for 15-20 seconds before eating
- Texture becomes more dense after refrigeration
Meal Prep Strategy
Mix dry ingredients (flour and salt) in small containers ahead of time. When the craving hits, just add Nutella and egg for your quick nutella mug cake.
The Secret to Ultimate Gooeyness
Here's what separates a good nutella mug cake from an absolutely incredible one: the resting time. After microwaving, let your cake sit untouched for exactly 30 seconds. During this time, the residual heat continues to cook the very center while the edges set perfectly. This creates that restaurant-quality contrast between the set exterior and molten interior.
Another pro tip? Add an extra tablespoon of Nutella in the center of your batter before microwaving. Don't mix it in; just drop it in the middle. This creates a lava-like chocolate center that flows when you break into your nutella mug cake. It's the difference between good and unforgettable.
FAQ
How do you make a Nutella mug cake?
Mix 4 tablespoons Nutella with 1 egg and 3 tablespoons flour in a mug. Microwave for 60-90 seconds until set. Your nutella mug cake is ready to enjoy!
What are the ingredients in the 3 ingredient mug cake?
Just three simple ingredients: Nutella, egg, and flour. That's all you need for this delicious nutella mug cake.
Can you microwave Nutella to melt it?
Yes! Microwave Nutella in 15-second intervals, stirring between each. This makes mixing your nutella mug cake much easier.
How to melt Nutella for cake?
Use 10-15 second microwave bursts and stir between each interval. This creates the perfect consistency for your nutella mug cake batter.
Time to Satisfy That Chocolate Craving
Now that you know how to make this foolproof nutella mug cake, there's no excuse for going without dessert. This recipe has saved countless late-night study sessions, movie marathons, and sudden sweet tooth emergencies in my kitchen. The best part? It's so quick and easy that you can make it whenever the craving strikes.
Don't stop at just this recipe though. Once you master this nutella mug cake, try our 3 Ingredient Mug Cake Recipe for an even simpler version, or level up your protein intake with our 1 Minute Protein Brownie Recipe that's perfect for post-workout treats. Both use the same quick microwave method that makes dessert possible anytime.
Give this nutella mug cake a try tonight, and don't forget to share your creations! I love seeing how everyone customizes their mug cakes with different toppings and mix-ins. Happy baking!
Sweet moments made simple; one mug at a time! 🍫 ; Viola
Related
Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:
Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with this Nutella Mug Cake recipe:

Nutella Mug Cake
Equipment
- 1(12 oz ) Microwave-safe mug
- 1 Fork or small whisk
- Measuring spoons
- 1 Microwave
- 1 Small spatula (optional)
Ingredients
- ½ tablespoon Nutella Rich chocolate hazelnut spread
- 1 large Egg Room temperature preferred
- 3 tablespoon All-purpose flour Provides structure
- 1 pinch Salt Enhances flavor
- 0.5 teaspoon Vanilla extract Optional
- 1 tablespoon Milk Optional
- 1 tablespoon Chocolate chips Optional
- 1 tablespoon Chopped hazelnuts Optional
Instructions
- Grease mug.
- Mix ingredients.
- Microwave.
- Rest.
- Serve.
Leave a Reply