Dessert

Vanilla Mug Cake Recipe

ByMaya Quinn February 27, 2026February 27, 2026

Introduction

This Vanilla Mug Cake is a quick and simple treat you can whip up in minutes using just a few pantry staples. Perfect for satisfying sweet cravings without any fuss or baking equipment. Enjoy a warm, tender cake fresh from the microwave whenever you need a little dessert fix.

The image shows a white speckled mug filled with a soft, light brown cake topped with colorful rainbow sprinkles, with a bite taken out revealing the cake's moist texture inside. The mug sits on a white plate with a rose gold spoon holding a small piece of the cake. In the upper right corner, there is another similar white mug with the same cake topped with a swirl of white frosting and rainbow sprinkles. The scene is set on a white marbled surface with scattered sprinkles and a pink and white cloth in the top left. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1/4 cup (28g) King Arthur Golden Wheat Flour
1/16 teaspoon table salt
1/16 teaspoon baking soda
1/8 teaspoon baking powder
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 tablespoon (12g) vegetable oil
2 tablespoons (28g) water
1/4 teaspoon cider vinegar or white vinegar
1/4 teaspoon King Arthur Pure Vanilla Extract
1 to 2 teaspoons sprinkles, optional

Instructions

Step 1: Combine the dry ingredients—flour, salt, baking soda, baking powder, and sugar—in a 6- to 8-ounce microwave-safe mug or bowl.
Step 2: Add the vegetable oil, water, vinegar, and vanilla extract. Stir thoroughly until the batter is smooth with no dry spots. If using, scatter the sprinkles on top.
Step 3: Microwave the mixture on high for 40 seconds. Check the cake; if the center isn’t set, continue microwaving in 5- to 10-second increments until done, usually totaling 40 to 50 seconds in a 1000-watt microwave.
Step 4: Let the cake cool for a couple of minutes before eating. Optional: top with whipped cream or ice cream for extra indulgence.

Tips & Variations

Use a mug or container just big enough for the batter to prevent overflow while microwaving.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or a few chocolate chips for a flavor twist.
For a dairy-free option, substitute the water with almond or oat milk and ensure sprinkles are vegan if using.

Storage

This mug cake is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Reheat briefly in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds to warm before serving.

How to Serve

A white mug filled with one layer of light beige cake dough mixed with colorful rainbow sprinkles in red, yellow, green, blue, and pink, with a spoon lifting a small chunk of the soft, moist cake from the top right inside the mug. The mug is placed on a white marbled surface scattered with loose rainbow sprinkles. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular all-purpose flour instead of Golden Wheat Flour?

Yes, all-purpose flour works well as a substitute and will produce a similar texture and flavor.

Can I make this mug cake without vinegar?

The vinegar reacts with the baking soda to help the cake rise and stay fluffy. If you omit it, the texture may be denser, but it will still taste good.