Salted Caramel Mug Cake Recipe: A 75-Second Microwave Delight
Why You’ll Love This Salted Caramel Mug Cake
Craving something sweet and a little fancy, but don’t want to spend hours baking? This Salted Caramel Mug Cake is warm, gooey, and ready in just 75 seconds! It’s the perfect mix of buttery caramel flavor and a hint of sea salt for balance.
You’ll love it because:
- It’s super quick—just 1 minute and 15 seconds in the microwave.
- Salted caramel makes it taste bakery-level without the fuss.
- Single-serving size means no leftovers tempting you later.
- Minimal cleanup: one mug, one spoon, and done!
Whether you’re looking for a late-night treat or a speedy dessert for movie night, this mug cake is your go-to indulgence.
Quick Info Table
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 mins | 1 min 15 sec | 4 mins 15 sec | 1 | Easy |
What You’ll Need
A few pantry staples and caramel magic are all you need.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 4 tbsp | Lightly spooned for accuracy |
| Brown sugar | 3 tbsp | Adds depth and a caramel-like sweetness |
| Baking powder | 1/4 tsp | Helps the cake rise |
| Pinch of salt | – | Balances sweetness |
| Milk | 3 tbsp | Dairy or non-dairy |
| Neutral oil | 1½ tbsp | Keeps the cake moist |
| Vanilla extract | 1/2 tsp | Enhances flavor |
| Soft caramel candies | 2–3 pieces | Or use 2 tsp jarred caramel sauce |
| Sea salt flakes | Pinch | For topping |
Tip: Use a sturdy, microwave-safe mug (at least 10 oz) to give the batter room to rise.
Step-by-Step Directions
You’ll be amazed how easy this is!
- Combine dry ingredients.
In your mug, whisk together flour, brown sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. - Add wet ingredients.
Pour in milk, oil, and vanilla. Stir until smooth, scraping down the sides. - Add caramel.
Gently press soft caramel candies into the center or swirl in a spoonful of caramel sauce. - Microwave.
Cook on high for 75 seconds. The cake should be set on top but slightly gooey in the middle. - Top and enjoy.
Sprinkle with sea salt flakes and drizzle extra caramel if you like. Let it sit for 30 seconds before diving in.
Pro Tip: Every microwave is different—if the cake looks underdone, zap for another 5–10 seconds, but don’t overcook or it will dry out.
How to Serve
- Enjoy warm straight from the mug for a molten center.
- Top with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
- Drizzle more caramel or add chopped nuts for crunch.
- Pair with coffee or tea for a cozy combo.
Expert Tips for Success
- Use soft caramels or thick caramel sauce; thin syrups may sink.
- Want a richer flavor? Use dark brown sugar instead of light.
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon for a warm twist.
- For a gooier center, undercook by a few seconds.
- To make it dairy-free, swap in almond or oat milk and vegan caramel.
If you somehow have leftovers, cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Reheat gently before serving.
Common Questions
Can I make my own caramel sauce?
Absolutely! Use a quick homemade caramel or store-bought for convenience.
How do I keep the caramel from hardening?
Press it into the batter rather than leaving it on top, so it melts inside as it cooks.
Can I bake this instead of microwaving?
Yes—bake in an oven-safe ramekin at 350°F (175°C) for 12–14 minutes.
My cake overflowed! What happened?
Your mug was likely too small or overfilled. Use a mug that’s at least 10–12 oz.
Can I double the recipe?
You can, but split the batter into two mugs so it cooks evenly.
Final Thoughts
The Salted Caramel Mug Cake proves that dessert doesn’t have to be complicated. In just 75 seconds, you can enjoy a warm, gooey cake that feels like a little luxury.
Next time you’re craving something sweet and satisfying, grab a mug and a few simple ingredients—this speedy treat will be your new favorite!
