This strawberry mug cake is perfect when you're craving a quick strawberry shortcake fix! It’s soft, fruity, and ready in just 3 minutes in the microwave. For a full cake version, check out my strawberry cream cake.
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This strawberry mug cake is a quick, single-serve dessert made in the microwave. It’s soft, fruity, and ready in just 3 minutes — no oven, no egg!
You only need flour, sugar, milk, butter, and fresh strawberries. Mix everything in a mug and microwave until light and fluffy. So easy!
It’s perfect for strawberry season or any last-minute craving. Top with whipped cream or ice cream for a mini strawberry shortcake vibe!
Ingredients You Need
You need these ingredients to make this easy strawberry shortcake mug cake recipe:
- Flour: Use cake flour for a light texture, or all-purpose flour if that’s what you have. You can also try whole wheat or rye flour for a healthier mug cake version.
- Sugar: White granulated sugar works best, but brown sugar, maple syrup, or even coconut sugar can be used depending on the flavor you want.
- Baking Powder: Just a small amount is enough to help this microwave mug cake rise. Add a pinch of salt to boost the flavor.
- Butter: Melted unsalted butter keeps the texture soft and rich. You can also use coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Milk: Regular or plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk) works well. Want to try a no milk version? Swap with an egg for a protein boost.
- Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are ideal for this strawberry mug cake recipe. Frozen strawberries also work — just thaw and drain them first.
- Vanilla Extract: Totally optional, but adds that sweet bakery-style aroma, especially when paired with strawberries.
How to Make a Strawberry Mug Cake in the Microwave
Here are some quick visual instructions. Don't forget that full recipe instructions with exact ingredients can be found in the recipe card below!
Step 1: In a microwave-safe mug or small bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients — flour, sugar, and baking powder — until well combined.
Step 2: Add the melted butter, milk, and a splash of vanilla extract. Mix everything with a fork or spoon until the batter is smooth and lump-free.
Step 3: Gently fold the diced strawberries into the mug cake batter until evenly distributed. Make sure they’re well mixed in for sweet strawberry flavor in every bite.
Step 4: Microwave on high (800 watts) for 1 to 1½ minutes, or until the center is just set. The cake should rise and look fluffy, like a mini strawberry shortcake in a mug.
Let it cool slightly, then top with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or extra fresh strawberries for an easy and delicious single-serve dessert.
Tips for this recipe
Variations & Substitutions
FAQ - Recipe Questions
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes! Just thaw and drain them well before adding to the batter to avoid too much moisture in your mug cake.
Can I bake it instead of using a microwave?
This recipe is made for the microwave, but you can bake it in an oven-safe mug at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes, or until set.
How do I know when the mug cake is done?
It should look set on top and feel firm to the touch. You can also insert a toothpick — if it comes out clean, it’s ready!
Can I use a cake mix instead?
Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use about 6 tbsp of strawberry or vanilla cake mix and adjust the liquid as needed.
Why did my mug cake turn out dry?
It was probably overcooked. Try reducing the microwave time or power slightly next time. Every microwave is different!
More Mug Cakes
I hope you enjoy this sweet little mug cake! If you try it, be sure to leave a comment and a rating — I’d love to know how it turned out. Happy baking!
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Strawberry Mug Cake
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 1 mug
Description
A quick and fluffy strawberry mug cake made in the microwave with fresh berries. Ready in 3 minutes — no egg, no oven, and so easy to make! (for a standard mug).
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp cake flour (or all-purpose flour)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- ¼ tsp baking powder
- 1 small pinch of salt (optional)
- 3 tbsp milk (dairy or plant-based)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 3–4 fresh strawberries, diced
Instructions
- In a microwave-safe mug, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
- Add the melted butter, milk, and vanilla. Stir with a tablespoon until smooth.
- Fold in the diced strawberries.
- Microwave on high for 1 to 1½ minutes, or until the center is set.
- Let cool slightly. Serve with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or fresh berries if desired.
Notes
Storage: Consume immediately or keep in the fridge for 1 day. Reheat slightly in the microwave.
Tips:
- Best enjoyed warm, right after cooking.
- You can store it in the fridge for up to 1 day.
- Reheat in the microwave for 10–15 seconds before serving.
- Don’t overfill the mug — batter should only reach halfway.
- Adjust microwave time depending on your microwave’s power.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for best flavor.
- Avoid overmixing to keep the texture light and fluffy.
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 m 30
- Category: mug cake
- Cuisine: American
so good!