Pin it
Peanut butter cake in a mug is the ultimate answer when dessert cravings strike and you want something quick that feels like a treat. In just a couple of minutes and with no complicated steps there is gooey nutty softness ready to devour.
There was a night my teen was begging for something sweet after dinner. Since we had no cookies I whipped this up and now he makes it himself most weekends.
Ingredients
- Self rising flour: gives the cake its lift so you get a fluffy instead of dense texture Choose a fresh bag if you have it
- Granulated sugar: adds sweetness but not too much for a perfect balance Go for organic sugar if possible
- Creamy peanut butter: is key for flavor and creates the moist richness I like one with roasted peanuts for extra depth
- Whole milk: brings everything together and keeps things tender You can swap in half and half for a lush cake
- Salted sweet cream butter melted: helps everything blend smoothly It also adds flavor you miss out on with oil
- Pure vanilla extract: rounds out the taste making it more like bakery cake Look for real vanilla not imitation if you can
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- Combine the self rising flour and sugar in your mug using a fork until evenly mixed Make sure any lumps are gone to avoid dry bites in the finished cake
- Add Wet Ingredients:
- Add peanut butter milk melted butter and vanilla directly into the mug then stir hard until all dry bits are gone and everything becomes a smooth thick batter Scrape down the sides of the mug halfway through stirring
- Microwave the Batter:
- Place your mug in the center of the microwave and cook for about one minute and thirty seconds Check the cake with a spoon and microwave for up to another fifteen seconds if it is still sticky on top Every microwave is different so watch closely the first time
- Let Cool and Add Topping:
- Let your mug cake rest for two or three minutes before serving This stops burns and lets the cake set For a gooey touch drop a spoonful of extra peanut butter on the hot cake and gently spread it so it melts and covers the top
Pin it
Peanut butter is definitely my favorite ingredient here Nothing compares to its creamy richness and the way it gets gooey as it melts on top My youngest always asks for an extra spoonful and we make it a double layer of peanut butter every time
Storage Tips
This mug cake really is best fresh but you can let it cool completely and wrap the top with plastic wrap for up to twelve hours at room temperature Reheat for fifteen seconds in the microwave to revive the softness If you must store longer keep it in the fridge tightly wrapped and enjoy it within a day for the best texture
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use homemade self rising flour easily by stirring one quarter teaspoon baking powder and a pinch of salt into each four tablespoons of regular flour If you do not have whole milk two percent works or almond milk for dairy free Chocolate chips or chopped peanuts are tasty on top if you want even more crunch
Serving Suggestions
The classic is a warm cake with cool vanilla ice cream for temperature and flavor contrast A drizzle of honey or a few banana slices added before cooking bring delicious peanut butter and banana vibes For a salty sweet treat sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt before serving
Pin it
The Origins of Mug Cakes
The mug cake is a modern kitchen hack popularized for its speed and simplicity Home bakers in the early two thousands began experimenting with single serve cakes and social media made the trend go viral Now mug cakes are a staple for college students and busy parents everywhere and peanut butter has always been a favorite flavor to try in this style
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I ensure my mug cake stays moist?
Mix ingredients until just combined and avoid overcooking. Removing promptly preserves moisture.
- → Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, chunky peanut butter adds texture, but creamy yields a smoother cake. Choose based on preference.
- → What size mug should I use?
A 14-ounce microwave-safe mug allows enough space for rising without overflowing.
- → Is it possible to make this without self-rising flour?
Yes, substitute 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour mixed with 1/4 teaspoon baking powder and a pinch of salt.
- → How can I customize the flavor?
Add chocolate chips, a dash of cinnamon, or a scoop of ice cream after cooking for a unique twist.