Easy Gluten-Free Mug Cake Recipe (Chocolate Chip)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Whoever came up with this cake-in-a-cup concept is a genius! This single-serving cake is the perfect solution for nights when you want a little homemade treat but don’t want to whip up an entire cake or batch of cookies. This flourless cake has everything you want in a dessert- it’s warm, ooey, gooey cake, and totally delicious! It has a slightly spongy texture and literally melts in your mouth!

The best part is it comes together quickly using simple ingredients you already have in your pantry and fridge. The almond flour and coconut flour work together to make the perfect texture without the use of any grains. 

That’s right! A delicious gluten-free version using basic ingredients, less time than a full cake, and such an easy recipe to keep on hand in a pinch! Let’s make this Gluten-Free Mug Cake! 

If you’re looking for more gluten-free mug cake recipes, try my Healthy Chocolate Protein Mug Cake! It’s a chocolate, protein-packed version! 

• Baking powder – Be sure to look for gluten free baking powder that is also aluminum free.
• Coconut oil – You can also use ghee if preferred. It is important to measure it melted, not solid!
• Chocolate chips – To make a paleo mug cake, look for brands like Hu Kitchen or Eating Evolved which are refined sugar free. Another delicious brand of gluten free chocolate chips is Enjoy Life Foods.
• Almond Flour & Coconut flour – This recipe really requires the use of both of these flours for the right texture. I have not tested it with just one or the other. If you do, let us know how it turns out in the comments below!
• Maple Syrup
• Egg
• Baking Powder
• Vanilla Extract
• Salt– just a pinch!

1. Add all of the wet ingredients to a Pyrex 2-cup measuring cup and mix. You can also add them directly into the mug to mix, but it works best to use a separate cup/bowl for mixing!
2. Add the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
3. Fold in the chocolate chips.
4. Pour the mixture into a microwave-safe mug (12 oz size works well)
5. Microwave for 1-2 minutes. The timing will depend on your microwave. Mine was perfect around the 1-and-1/2-minute mark! Add more chocolate chips on top, if desired. They tend to sink to the bottom!

Expert Tips

• This gooey gluten-free chocolate mug cake will be HOT when it comes out of the microwave! Let it cool for a minute or two before digging in. You can mix all of the ingredients directly in the mug, but I find it easier to mix separately first and then pour it into the mug.

• Top with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, if desired! You can also top with a spoonful of peanut butter, other nut butter, fresh berries, a dusting of cocoa powder or ground cinnamon, and more! Or Serve with a glass of your favorite dairy-free milk like almond milk or coconut milk. 
• I have not tested this recipe with any other gluten-free flour alternatives. You could try using Bob’s Red Mill gluten-free all-purpose flour. Let me know if you do and how it turns out in the comment below. 
• To make this vegan, you can swap the egg for applesauce. I haven’t tried it with a flax egg, but if you do, please let us know how it goes in the comments below! You can use 1.5 tbsp applesauce in place of the egg!

Oven Method

If you don’t have a microwave or don’t want to use it, follow these instructions for an oven-baked version.

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Combine ingredients in an oven-safe ramekin or mug or another oven-safe dish.
3. Bake for 18-20 minutes.
4. Let cool for a few minutes, and top with your toppings of choice.

More Gluten-Free Dessert Recipes 

Strawberry Shortcake

Paleo Chocolate Lava Cakes

Blueberry Crumb Bars

Key Lime Pie Cheesecake Bars