Brownie in a Mug Recipe

Sometimes you just want dessert right now. Not tomorrow, not in an hour — right this minute. That’s where a brownie in a mug comes to the rescue. Rich, fudgy, and warm, this single-serving brownie is ready in under five minutes. All you need is a mug, a spoon, and a microwave.

The first time I made a mug brownie, I couldn’t believe how satisfying it was. I didn’t have to preheat the oven, dirty a bunch of pans, or wait for a whole batch to cool. In just a few minutes, I had a warm, gooey brownie that felt like a personal little indulgence. It’s the ultimate quick fix for chocolate cravings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 4 tablespoons sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or melted butter)
• 2 tablespoons milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• A pinch of salt
• Optional: a few chocolate chips or nuts for extra richness

Why a Mug Brownie Works

At first, it might sound too good to be true. Can you really make a proper brownie in the microwave? The answer is yes. The combination of cocoa, sugar, and oil gives it that rich, chocolatey base, while the flour provides just enough structure. 

The microwave cooks it quickly, giving you a brownie that’s soft, fudgy, and slightly chewy around the edges.

It won’t have the crisp crust of an oven-baked batch, but what it lacks in crunch it makes up for in convenience and instant gratification.

Mixing the Batter

Grab a microwave-safe mug and add the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Stir until the dry ingredients are evenly combined. Add the oil and milk, then mix until smooth. Make sure there are no lumps of flour or cocoa hiding at the bottom.

If you’re feeling extra indulgent, stir in a handful of chocolate chips or chopped nuts. They melt into little pockets of goodness that make the brownie even more satisfying.

Cooking in the Microwave

Place the mug in the microwave and cook on high for about 60–90 seconds. The exact time depends on the strength of your microwave. Start with one minute, then check. 

The brownie should look set on top but still a little gooey in the middle. Remember, it will continue to cook slightly once you stop the microwave.

Be careful not to overcook — if you go too long, the brownie can turn dry.

Serving Your Mug Brownie

You can eat the brownie straight out of the mug, but I like to add a little something extra. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top melts into the warm brownie and creates the perfect contrast of hot and cold. 

Whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce are also great options.

It’s your personal brownie, so dress it up however you like.

Each variation takes just seconds to prepare but makes the brownie feel brand new.

Tips for the Best Mug Brownie

A few little tricks make this recipe foolproof. Always use a microwave-safe mug, preferably one that holds at least 12 ounces, so the batter doesn’t overflow. Mix the ingredients well, scraping the bottom of the mug, so you don’t end up with dry spots of flour. 

Cook in short bursts if you’re unsure about timing — microwaves vary, and it’s better to slightly undercook than overcook. Let the brownie rest for a minute after cooking; it will finish setting as it cools.

And finally, don’t be afraid to experiment. Since it’s a single serving, you can try different add-ins each time without committing to a whole batch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This brownie in a mug is quick, easy, and endlessly customizable. It’s the perfect solution for late-night cravings, solo desserts, or even a fun treat for kids to make on their own. You don’t need an oven, mixer, or even a baking pan — just a mug, a spoon, and a few pantry staples.

Once you try it, you’ll see why this little recipe has become such a favorite for chocolate lovers everywhere.