This No-Bake Chocolate Cake Is My Weeknight Secret Weapon

When the only thing that will do is chocolate cake but you can't be bothered to pull out the mixer and turn on the oven, make the microwave chocolate mug cake. It takes mere minutes to whip up and makes one rich, warm cake, just for you.

Jun 1, 2024 - 19:00

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This No-Bake Chocolate Cake Is My Weeknight Secret Weapon

Chocolate mug cake close-up — Dandelion Chocolate

I love chocolate, and I love cake. Naturally, chocolate cake is favorite dessert of mine. That being said, I rarely whip up a homemade chocolate cake at home. I often can't be bothered, and don't want to have a giant cake sitting on my counter taunting me day and night—I just don't have the willpower for that.

When the craving comes strong and fast, that's when I make this chocolate mug cake. The recipe comes from Stephen Durfee at Dandelion Chocolate, my hands-down favorite chocolate company. Headquartered in San Francisco, the company specializes in single-origin craft chocolate. They also have a café that sells incredibly delicious chocolate treats.

From Stephen, who developed this excellent recipe: "Each time I whip up this mug cake, there's an anticipation that builds, knowing the treat that awaits. The aroma of rich chocolate fills the air as it bakes, and the first spoonful is a revelation. It's not just about the taste—it's about the experience. With a little love and the right ingredients, it becomes a source of comfort on dreary days, and a reminder that sometimes, the simplest pleasures are the most profound."

This mug cake will work using any dark chocolate you like, but I highly recommend you seek out Dandelion's incredible chocolate and level up your mug cake. Make it any time your chocolate craving strikes.

A Note on Microwaves

As with all microwave recipes, this mug cake comes with a small warning: the cook time will depend on your specific microwave. I find that it takes about 55 seconds in my standard wattage microwave, but if you have a smaller/lower wattage microwave or one with more gusto, it could take more or less time.

Once you've figured out the exact timing, write it on a sticky note so you can make it perfectly every time.

chocolate mug cake on a tray — Dandelion Chocolate

Microwave Sweets

Melt the chocolate and butter:

Combine the chocolate and butter in a microwave-safe coffee mug that has been lightly coated with nonstick pan spray. The mug should be at least 12 ounces (extra large) and ideally straight-sided.

Heat for 30 seconds. Stir together and heat in additional 5-second increments until the mixture is fully melted.

Stir in the sugar and wet ingredients:

Stir in the sugar followed by the egg yolk and milk. Stir until smooth and fully blended.

Add the dry ingredients:

Add the flour, salt, and baking soda directly into the mug and stir with a spoon just until incorporated.

Microwave:

Place the mug onto the microwave turntable and cook on high for 40 seconds.

Check to see how your cake looks. It should look very puffed and dry without wet batter. If your cake isn't done, microwave for 10 more seconds, repeating until it's done. Depending on your microwave, the cook time will range between 40 seconds and 75 seconds. Be careful not to overcook the mixture, or it will be tough.