Easy 5-Min Banana Mug Cake

Try this delightful banana mug cake recipe at home using simple ingredients and ready in just 5 minutes. With its soft and moist texture, is delicious banana flavor, and chocolate chips, it's perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack.

Jump to:

• Why you'll love this cake
• Ingredients You Need Notes
• Ingredients Notes
• How to Make Banana Cake In a Mug
• Serving suggestions
• Tips for this recipe
• Storage
• Variations & Substitutions
• Frequently Asked Question
• More Microwave Mug Cakes
• Banana Mug Cake

A banana mug cake recipe is a quick dessert made primarily from overripe bananas and basic baking ingredients, combined and microwaved in a coffee mug. It offers a moist, cake-like texture with a rich banana flavor, often complemented by add-ins like chocolate chips.

We love banana mug cake not only because, like in my traditional banana bread or these banana muffins, ripe bananas give the dessert its natural sweetness and moisture, but also because it's an incredibly easy recipe to whip up using simple ingredients

You should try the banana mug cake recipe because it's the perfect treat for breakfast, late-night dessert or any time you have a craving during the day.

Its convenience and deliciousness make it a must-try for anyone on the go or in need of a quick sweet fix.

Craving for more banana recipes? Give these a try: banana date smoothie, banana walnut cake, banana bread cookies, banana milkshake

Ingredients You Need Notes

You need these ingredients to make this Banana bread mug cake:

Ingredients Notes

• Banana: A ripe mashed banana will provide natural sweetness and moisture, making the cake soft. Ensure it's not overly ripe to prevent a soggy result.
• Brown Sugar: Adds a rich, molasses-like sweetness that pairs perfectly with the banana, You can also use simple white sugar, or natural sugar such as honey or maple syrup.
• Egg: Acts as a binder and provides structure. Make sure it's at room temperature to ensure even mixing.
• Oil: Contributes to the cake's moistness. A neutral oil like sunflower or vegetable oil works best, but you can also experiment with coconut oil or melted butter.
• Vanilla: Enhances the overall flavor of the cake. Pure vanilla extract is preferred for the best flavor.
• Flour: Regular all-purpose flour works well or cake flour. For a healthier twist, you can also try whole wheat, almond flour, coconut flour or oat flour, but this may change the texture slightly.
• Baking Powder: Gives the cake its rise. Ensure it's fresh to get the best results.
• Salt: A pinch of salt can elevate the flavors and balance out the sweetness.
• Chocolate Chips: Optional but recommended. They add a delightful contrast in texture and a boost of chocolatey goodness. Use semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for the best taste combination.

How to Make Banana Cake In a Mug

Here are some quick visual instructions. Remember, the full instructions with exact ingredients can be found in the main recipe card below!

Cake batter

Step 1: Mash the banana with a fork in a small bowl or directly in your mug.

Step 2: Add the brown sugar, room-temperature egg and vanilla extract and stir until smooth.

Add dry ingredients

Step 3: Add the dry ingredients, flour, salt and baking powder.

Step 4: Stir in chocolate chips and mix until smooth.

Baking

Step 5: Pour the mixture into a large mug.

Step 6: Cook the mug in the microwave for about 1m30 until the banana mug cake is cooked through in the center. 

Enjoy! Serve immediately, warm, with a dollop of chocolate spread, whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Serving suggestions

• Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve your warm banana mug cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combination of hot and cold.
• Whipped Cream: Top the cake with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or cocoa powder for added flavor.
• Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle some chocolate sauce over the cake for a rich, indulgent treat.
• Fresh Berries: Add a handful of fresh berries such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of freshness and color.
• Caramel Sauce: Pour warm caramel sauce over the cake for a deliciously sweet and gooey topping.
• Nutella: Spread a layer of Nutella on top of the mug cake for a decadent chocolate-hazelnut twist.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds on top for added crunch and texture.
• Peanut Butter: Swirl some peanut butter into the batter before cooking or drizzle on top for a delightful combination of flavors.
• Yogurt: Serve with a side of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey for a healthier option that adds creaminess and a touch of sweetness.
• Banana Slices: Garnish with extra banana slices on top to enhance the banana flavor and add a fresh touch.

Storage

Fridge and room temperature: Store the cooled banana mug cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day or refrigerate for up to 3 days. 

​How to reheat a banana mug cake? To reheat a banana mug cake, microwave it on medium power for about 20-30 seconds or until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Question

Can you make a banana mug cake ahead of time?

You can make a mug cake ahead of time, but it's best enjoyed fresh; if made in advance, store it covered in the refrigerator and reheat gently in the microwave before serving.

Or you can prepare the mug cake batter ahead of time and store it in the fridge; simply microwave it when you're ready to enjoy, ensuring a fresh and warm treat every time.

Can I eat banana mug cake cold?

Yes, you can eat this microwave banana mug cake cold if you prefer, though many people enjoy the warmth and texture of it freshly microwaved. The flavors will still be delicious even when cooled.

How ripe should the banana be?

The banana should be very ripe with brown spots on the peel. Ripe bananas are sweeter and mash more easily, giving your mug cake better flavor and texture.

Can I substitute the sugar with another sweetener?

Yes, you can use honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute like stevia. Adjust the amount to taste, as different sweeteners vary in sweetness.

What if my mug cake overflows in the microwave?

Make sure your mug is large enough to accommodate the rising cake batter. Using a mug with a capacity of at least 12 ounces helps prevent overflow.

More Microwave Mug Cakes

I hope you love this banana bread mug cake recipe. If you make it, be sure to leave a comment and a rating so I know how you liked it. Happy Baking!

Print