When the craving for cake hits but you don’t want to turn on the oven, this Chocolate Mug Cake Mix delivers a tender, airy crumb in just one microwave minute. The mix marries the lightness of angel food cake with the deep cocoa of devil’s food, whisked together into a pantry staple that feels indulgent without effort.
Tuck the mix into a new mug, tie it with ribbon, and you have a homemade gift any teacher or neighbor would love.
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Step 1:
In a large bowl, whisk together the dry angel food cake mix, devil’s food cake mix, and unsweetened cocoa powder until evenly blended. At this stage, you’re just mixing up the dry ingredients to store in your pantry for future easy cakes or to gift with a new mug.
Step 2:
Transfer the combined mix to an airtight container or zip-top bag. Label and store in a cool, dry place for up to two months.
Step 3:
To prepare, combine 3 T of the mix with 2 T water in a microwave-safe mug. Stir well until the batter looks foamy.
Step 4:
Microwave on high for 1 minute, just until the cake puffs up and sets. It will look just like a sponge is sitting in the cup. Don’t overcook; it will finish cooking as it rests.
Step 5:
Top with your choice of frosting, whipped cream, Nutella, peanut butter, chocolate sauce, caramel, or fresh berries.
Tools & Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Whisk
- Airtight container like a Ball jar or zip-top bag for storage
- Microwave-safe mug (for preparing or gifting)
- Gifting? Check out these cute jars and mug
Tips for Success
- Write the microwave instructions directly on the storage bag or jar label for easy gifting.
- For an extra-rich flavor, don’t skip the unsweetened cocoa powder—it deepens the chocolate flavor. If you have it on hand, add a teaspoon of instant coffee powder (dry) to the mix.
- Package portions of the dry mix in small bags, tuck them into mugs, and add a tag that says: “Emergency Stress Relief Chocolate Cake! Mix 3 T cake mix with 2 T water. Stir well. Microwave 1 minute.”
- Pair with mini marshmallows, white or dark chocolate chips, chocolate candies, and a small scoop for a complete DIY dessert kit.
- Use a lighter-colored mug if gifting—so the cake’s rich chocolate color contrasts nicely in the mug.
- Store in a cool, dry pantry for up to two months; moisture and humidity will shorten shelf life.
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Chocolate Mug Cake Mix
Ingredients
- 1 Box Angel food cake mix (dry)
- 1 Box Devil’s food cake mix (dry) or any chocolate cake mix
- 1/3 c Unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 c White or dark chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, or chopped nuts optional
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together all ingredients until well combined.
- Transfer mix to an airtight container or zip-top bag. Label with preparation instructions. Store in a cool, dry place for up to 2 months. Avoid humidity and keep container of dry mug cake mix tightly closed.
- To make one serving of mug cake: Combine 3 T cake mix with 2 T water in a microwave-safe mug. Stir until the batter looks even and a bit foamy.
- Microwave on high for 1 minute, or until cake is puffed and set. Don't overcook; you may see a bit of moisture but it will finish cooking as it rests.
- Top with frosting, powdered sugar, Nutella, chocolate sauce, or whipped cream. Enjoy warm and directly out of the mug.
The bottom line
This Chocolate Mug Cake Mix is the kind of kitchen shortcut that feels both clever and generous. The blend of angel food and devil’s food creates a cake that’s light yet chocolatey, airy yet satisfying. Kept in the pantry, it’s a lifesaver for sudden dessert cravings; dressed up in a mug with ribbon, it becomes a handmade gift that feels personal and thoughtful. Whether you’re baking for yourself or giving to someone else, this mix delivers instant comfort—one warm, chocolatey minute at a time.
