Craving a warm, comforting treat but don't want the commitment of a whole cake? This Banana Cake in a Mug recipe is your answer! It's the perfect quick dessert, a delightful breakfast option, or even a satisfying afternoon snack. This easy recipe requires minimal ingredients and takes just minutes to make in your microwave. Get ready for a delicious, moist, and utterly satisfying single-serving banana cake that’s as healthy as it is delicious!
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe banana, mashed (the riper, the better!)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar (granulated or brown)
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon milk (any kind will do)
- 1 tablespoon oil (vegetable or canola)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, but highly recommended!)
- Optional toppings: Chopped nuts, chocolate chips, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.
Instructions:
-
Mash the banana: In a large mug (at least 12 ounces), thoroughly mash the ripe banana with a fork until mostly smooth. A few small lumps are okay.
-
Combine dry ingredients: Add the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt to the mashed banana. Mix well with a fork until just combined. Don't overmix!
-
Add wet ingredients: Stir in the milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until a smooth batter forms. Again, avoid overmixing.
-
Microwave: Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the cake is cooked through and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Microwave times may vary depending on your microwave's wattage. Start with 1 minute and check for doneness.
-
Cool and enjoy: Let the cake cool in the mug for a minute or two before carefully removing it. Add your favorite toppings and enjoy your warm, delicious banana cake!
Tips for the Best Mug Cake:
- Use ripe bananas: The riper the banana, the sweeter and more flavorful your cake will be.
- Don't overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to a tough cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Adjust cooking time: Microwave ovens vary in power, so you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Start with a shorter time and add more as needed.
- Experiment with toppings: Get creative with your toppings! Chopped nuts, chocolate chips, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce all make delicious additions.
Variations:
- Chocolate Banana Cake: Add 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a decadent chocolate banana cake.
- Nutty Banana Cake: Add 1 tablespoon of chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds) to the batter.
- Spiced Banana Cake: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced flavor.
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving):
- Calories: Around 200-250
- Protein: Around 3-4 grams
- Carbohydrates: Around 30-40 grams
- Fat: Around 8-10 grams
This simple Banana Cake in a Mug recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights or when you're craving a sweet treat without the fuss. It's a healthy, delicious, and incredibly easy dessert that’s sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try and let us know what you think! Enjoy this quick dinner idea, easy recipe, and delicious dish! This homemade cooking creation is among the best recipes out there.