5-Minute Fudgy Brownie in a Mug Recipe
This brownie in a mug recipe gives you a warm, fudgy chocolate dessert in just 5 minutes, start to finish.
You mix everything in a mug, microwave it, and end up with a rich single serving that hits the spot without a whole pan of leftovers.
Why This Mug Brownie Stays in the Rotation
This mug brownie is fudgy in the center with a slightly crackly top, just like a real brownie but in a fraction of the time. You likely already have everything you need.
It’s the one I reach for when a chocolate craving hits at 9 p.m. and I don’t want to mess with bowls or an oven. The clean-up is exactly one mug and a spoon.
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour: spooned and leveled so the brownie isn’t dense
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder: natural or Dutch-process both work
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil: canola, melted coconut oil, or melted butter for richer flavor
- 3 tbsp milk: any dairy or non-dairy milk
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tbsp semisweet chocolate chips: optional, but they melt into gooey pockets
Variations / Substitutions
- Gluten-free: swap the flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend; texture stays similar.
- Dairy-free: use non-dairy milk and stick with oil instead of butter.
- Extra chocolate: stir in a teaspoon of peanut butter or sprinkle flaky sea salt on top before microwaving.
- Sugar-free: granulated monkfruit sweetener works, though the brownie may be less tender.
Fudgy Brownie Cookies are next on our list if this brownie is your kind of dessert.
How to Make a Brownie in a Mug
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a microwave-safe mug that holds at least 12 ounces, combine the 3 tbsp flour, 3 tbsp sugar, 2 tbsp cocoa powder, and pinch of salt. Stir with a fork for about 30 seconds until the mixture looks even and no lumps of cocoa remain.
Step 2: Stir in the Wet Ingredients
Pour in the 2 tbsp oil, 3 tbsp milk, and 1/4 tsp vanilla. Stir for about 45 seconds, scraping the bottom and sides, until the batter is smooth and glossy. Fold in the chocolate chips if you’re using them.
Step 3: Microwave and Serve
Set the mug in the microwave and cook on high for 1 minute to 1 minute 15 seconds. Start checking at 1 minute; the top should look set but the center will still be slightly wet and jiggly. Let the mug sit for 1 minute before you dig in, because it continues to cook from the residual heat. Enjoy it warm, straight from the mug.
Tips for the Perfect Mug Brownie
- Choose a mug that’s wide and at least 12 ounces. A narrow, tall mug can leave the center undercooked while the edges overbake.
- Mix thoroughly, but don’t overmix once the wet ingredients are in. Stir just until the flour streaks disappear, then stop.
- Microwave powers differ. If your microwave runs hot, start checking at 50 seconds, and add time in 10-second bursts until the top is set but the center still looks soft.
- Eat it while it’s warm; mug brownies firm up and lose their fudgy texture as they cool completely.
Microwave times by wattage:
| Wattage | Time |
|---|---|
| 700W | 1 min 30 sec to 1 min 45 sec |
| 900W | 1 min 15 sec to 1 min 30 sec |
| 110W | 1 min to 1 min 15 sec |
| 120W+ | 50 sec to 1 min 10 sec |
What to Serve With This Mug Brownie
A scoop of vanilla ice cream turns the warm brownie into a quick hot fudge sundae. For a crunch, crushed toasted pecans or a few chocolate-covered espresso beans on top work well. A drizzle of salted caramel sauce cuts the sweetness just enough.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use hot cocoa mix instead of cocoa powder?
No, hot cocoa mix contains sugar, milk powder, and other additives, so the texture and chocolate flavor won’t be right. Stick with unsweetened cocoa powder.
Can I use self-rising flour?
No, self-rising flour contains baking powder and salt, which will change the texture and make it cakey. All-purpose flour gives the fudgy result you want.
Can I make it without oil?
You can replace the oil with the same amount of unsweetened applesauce, but the brownie will be less rich and slightly spongy.
Is it safe to eat when the center looks underdone?
Yes, because there’s no raw egg in this recipe. The residual heat finishes cooking the center as it rests.
Brownie in a Mug Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- In a 12-ounce mug, stir together flour, sugar, cocoa, and salt until no lumps remain.
- Add oil, milk, and vanilla; stir until smooth and glossy, then fold in chocolate chips if using.
- Microwave on high for 1 minute to 1 minute 15 seconds, until the top is set but center still looks slightly soft. Let cool 1 minute and serve.
Notes
