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Easy Microwave Red Velvet Mug Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting

microwave red velvet mug cake - featured image

A quick and easy red velvet mug cake made in the microwave, topped with a creamy homemade cream cheese frosting. Perfect for a single serving indulgence in under 5 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 tablespoons (about 30 grams or 1/4 cup) all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons (25 grams or about 1 ounce) granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • A pinch of salt
  • 3 tablespoons (45 ml or 3/16 cup) milk (whole or 2%, dairy-free alternatives work too)
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml or 2/3 fluid ounce) vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon red food coloring (preferably gel)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons (about 30 grams or 1 ounce) softened cream cheese
  • 2 tablespoons (15 grams or about 1/8 cup) powdered sugar
  • 1 tablespoon (14 grams or 1/2 ounce) softened butter
  • 1 teaspoon milk (to thin frosting if needed)

Instructions

  1. In a microwave-safe mug, combine 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1 teaspoon cocoa powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir well with a fork or small whisk to blend evenly.
  2. Add 3 tablespoons milk, 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, 1 tablespoon red food coloring, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until smooth and vibrant red batter forms. Add a tiny splash of milk if batter is too thick.
  3. Microwave the mug on high for 70-90 seconds. Start with 70 seconds and add 10-15 second intervals if the cake is still wet on top. The cake should spring back lightly when touched and not look shiny or wet.
  4. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick or fork into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is done. Microwave an additional 10 seconds if needed, but avoid overcooking.
  5. While the cake cools for a minute or two, mix 2 tablespoons softened cream cheese, 1 tablespoon softened butter, and 2 tablespoons powdered sugar in the mug or a small bowl. Add 1 teaspoon milk if frosting is too thick. Stir until smooth and creamy.
  6. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the warm cake top. The warmth will slightly melt the frosting, creating a luscious layer. Optionally, sprinkle a pinch of cocoa powder or chocolate shavings on top.
  7. Enjoy immediately, best eaten warm but also delightful at room temperature.

Notes

Use gel food coloring for vibrant color without extra liquid. For dairy-free, substitute milk and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives. Start microwaving with minimum time and add seconds as needed to avoid overcooking. Soften cream cheese and butter well for smooth frosting. Let cake cool slightly before frosting to prevent melting frosting off.

Nutrition

Keywords: red velvet, mug cake, microwave cake, cream cheese frosting, quick dessert, single serving, easy recipe