This Protein Mug Cake is a quick and easy way to satisfy your sweet tooth while boosting your protein intake! Made in just a few minutes with simple ingredients, this fluffy and delicious cake is perfect for breakfast, a post-workout snack, or a healthy dessert. It’s naturally high in protein and can be made gluten-free and dairy-free!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High in Protein – A great way to fuel your body with extra protein.
- Quick & Easy – Ready in under 5 minutes with minimal effort.
- Customizable – Add chocolate chips, fruit, or nut butter for extra flavor.
- Healthy & Guilt-Free – No refined sugars and can be made gluten-free.
- Perfect for One – Single-serving, so there’s no waste!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 scoop protein powder (vanilla, chocolate, or your favorite flavor)
- 2 tbsp almond flour (or oat flour)
- ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder (optional, for chocolate flavor)
- 1 tbsp sweetener (honey, maple syrup, or stevia)
- ¼ cup milk (almond, oat, or dairy milk)
- 1 tbsp nut butter (optional, for moisture and flavor)
- 1 egg (or flax egg for vegan option)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Chocolate chips or fruit (optional, for mix-ins)
Directions

1. Mix the Ingredients
- In a microwave-safe mug, whisk together protein powder, almond flour, baking powder, and cocoa powder.
- Add milk, egg, sweetener, vanilla extract, and nut butter. Stir until smooth.
- If desired, fold in chocolate chips or fruit.
2. Microwave the Cake
- Microwave on high for 60-90 seconds, checking at 60 seconds to avoid overcooking.
- The cake should be firm on top but slightly soft inside.
3. Let It Cool & Enjoy
- Let the mug cake cool for 1-2 minutes before eating.
- Top with nut butter, yogurt, berries, or whipped cream.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 1
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 1-2 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate Lover’s Cake – Use chocolate protein powder and add extra cocoa powder.
- Peanut Butter Mug Cake – Stir in peanut butter and top with crushed peanuts.
- Banana Protein Cake – Mash in ½ banana for extra moisture.
- Keto-Friendly Version – Use almond flour, unsweetened almond milk, and keto-friendly sweetener.
- Berry Delight – Add blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Best eaten fresh, but can be stored for 1 day in the fridge.
- Reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds if needed.
FAQs
Can I use any protein powder?
Yes! Whey, plant-based, or casein protein all work, but textures may vary.
Why is my mug cake dry?
Try adding more milk or nut butter to keep it moist.
Can I make this vegan?
Yes! Use a flax egg and plant-based protein powder.
Can I bake this instead?
Yes! Bake in a ramekin at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes.
Is this gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free protein powder and flour.
Can I make this nut-free?
Yes! Use coconut flour or oat flour instead of almond flour.
Can I use water instead of milk?
Yes, but milk makes it richer and more flavorful.
How do I make it fluffier?
Use baking powder and don’t overmix the batter.
What toppings go well with this?
Try Greek yogurt, almond butter, sugar-free syrup, or dark chocolate chips.
Can I add extra protein?
Yes! Add Greek yogurt or cottage cheese on top for extra protein.
Conclusion
This Protein Mug Cake is a delicious, healthy, and protein-packed treat that’s ready in minutes. Whether you need a quick breakfast, post-workout snack, or healthy dessert, this recipe is perfect for you. Try it today and enjoy a guilt-free, protein-rich indulgence!
PrintProtein Mug Cake
This Protein Mug Cake is a single-serving, high-protein treat that’s ready in just 2 minutes! It’s soft, delicious, and perfect for satisfying sweet cravings while staying on track with your fitness goals.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 1–2 minutes
- Total Time: 3–4 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Microwave
- Cuisine: Healthy, Fitness
Ingredients
- 1 scoop (30g) protein powder (vanilla, chocolate, or your favorite flavor)
- 2 tablespoons oat flour (or almond flour for low-carb)
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder (optional, for chocolate flavor)
- 1 egg (or 3 tablespoons unsweetened applesauce for egg-free)
- 3 tablespoons milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon peanut butter or chocolate chips (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions
1. Mix the Batter
- In a microwave-safe mug, mix protein powder, oat flour, baking powder, and cocoa powder (if using).
- Add the egg, milk, vanilla extract, and sweetener. Stir well until a smooth batter forms.
- Mix in peanut butter or chocolate chips if desired.
2. Microwave the Mug Cake
- Microwave on high for 60–90 seconds. Check at 60 seconds—if the center is still wet, microwave for another 15–30 seconds until set.
- Let cool for 1 minute before eating.
3. Serve & Enjoy
- Top with Greek yogurt, nut butter, or berries for extra flavor!
Storage & Reheating
- Best eaten fresh, but can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
- Reheat in the microwave for 15–20 seconds.
Notes
- Use casein or whey protein for different textures. Casein makes it denser; whey makes it fluffier.
- Swap oat flour for coconut flour (use only 1 tablespoon) for a low-carb version.
- Want it fudgy? Add 1 teaspoon melted chocolate or ½ mashed banana to the batter.