Making this 5-Minute Nutella Mug Cake is incredibly simple and quick. Follow these step-by-step instructions to indulge in a warm, gooey dessert in no time.

Step 1: Prepare Your Mug

First, choose a microwave-safe mug that is large enough to hold the cake as it rises. A standard 10-12 ounce mug works perfectly. Lightly grease the inside of the mug with butter or cooking spray. This step is important to prevent the cake from sticking to the mug and ensures easy removal, although you’ll likely be eating it straight from the mug!

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In your prepared mug, add the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Using a fork or a small whisk, thoroughly combine these dry ingredients. Ensure there are no lumps of flour or baking powder, as this will result in a smoother batter and a better texture for your mug cake. Mixing them well at this stage ensures even distribution throughout the cake.

Step 3: Incorporate Wet Ingredients

Now, add the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract (if using) to the mug. Pour these wet ingredients over the dry mixture. Using the same fork or whisk, stir everything together until you have a smooth, well-combined batter. Make sure there are no streaks of dry flour remaining. The batter should be relatively smooth and slightly thick. Don’t overmix, just combine until everything is incorporated.

Step 4: Add the Nutella Centerpiece

Dollop two generous tablespoons of Nutella right into the center of the batter in your mug. You can gently press the Nutella down slightly with the back of a spoon if you want it to be more in the middle of the cake, but it’s perfectly fine to leave it on top. The heat from the microwave will melt the Nutella, creating a delicious gooey core throughout the cake.

Step 5: Microwave to Perfection

Place the mug in the microwave. Microwave on high power for 60-90 seconds, or until the cake is cooked through. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your microwave’s wattage. Start with 60 seconds and check for doneness. The cake is ready when it has risen, looks set around the edges, and a toothpick inserted into the center (avoiding the Nutella area) comes out mostly clean, with perhaps a few moist crumbs attached. Be careful not to overcook, as this can make the cake dry. If it’s still too wet after 90 seconds, microwave in additional 10-second intervals until cooked through.

Step 6: Cool Slightly and Indulge

Carefully remove the mug from the microwave (it will be hot!). Let it cool for a minute or two before digging in. This allows the cake to set slightly and prevents you from burning your tongue on molten Nutella. The aroma will be incredibly tempting at this point!

Step 7: Enhance and Enjoy (Optional)

For an extra touch of indulgence, you can add toppings while the cake is still warm. A scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of extra Nutella, or a sprinkle of chopped nuts are all fantastic options. Serve immediately and enjoy your warm, gooey, and incredibly easy 5-Minute Nutella Mug Cake!