Chocolate Mug Brownie
why make this recipe
When you crave something sweet, but you want it fast, a Chocolate Mug Brownie is the perfect solution. This simple recipe allows you to whip up a delicious brownie in just a few minutes using basic ingredients you probably have at home. It’s not only quick, but it also requires minimal cleanup, making it an excellent choice for anyone short on time or energy. Plus, the joy of having a warm, gooey brownie made just for you is hard to beat.
Whether you’re looking for a midnight snack, a quick dessert after dinner, or a little pick-me-up during the day, this recipe checks all the boxes. You can enjoy it plain or jazz it up with toppings like whipped cream or ice cream. It’s a single-serving treat that satisfies your chocolate cravings without the need to bake an entire batch. This is why making a Chocolate Mug Brownie is always a good idea!
how to make Chocolate Mug Brownie
Making a Chocolate Mug Brownie is extremely straightforward. You don’t need to be a baking expert, and you certainly don’t need fancy equipment. Just a microwave and a mug are all you need. Follow the step-by-step guide below to create your very own cozy dessert.
Ingredients
To kick things off, gather the ingredients. You will need the following:
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: chocolate chips or nuts
These ingredients are common household items, making it easy to whip this brownie up anytime you feel hungry.
Directions
Here’s how to make your Chocolate Mug Brownie in just a few simple steps:
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Gather Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. You will need a microwave-safe mug along with measuring cups and spoons for accuracy. This will help ensure you get the right proportions for the brownie.
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Mix the Dry Ingredients: In your microwave-safe mug, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt. Use a fork or a small whisk to mix the dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure there are no lumps. Mixing the dry components well is key to achieving a smooth brownie.
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Add Wet Ingredients: Next, add in the water, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the mug. Stir the mixture until everything is nicely combined and the batter is smooth. You can also add chocolate chips or nuts at this stage if you’d like more texture and flavor.
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Microwave the Brownie: Place the mug in the microwave and cook on high for about 1 minute. Microwave times can vary depending on the wattage of your microwave. Check the brownie at around 50 seconds. It is ready when it has set in the center, but be careful not to overcook.
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Cool and Enjoy: Let the brownie cool in the mug for a few minutes before enjoying. This step is essential, as the brownie will be very hot right out of the microwave.
Now your delicious Chocolate Mug Brownie is ready to be enjoyed!
how to serve Chocolate Mug Brownie
Serving your Chocolate Mug Brownie is just as simple as making it. Since it’s made in a mug, you can eat it directly from there. However, if you want to elevate your dessert experience, here are some serving ideas:
- Add Ice Cream: Top your warm brownie with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream. The contrast of hot and cold is delightful!
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream can add an extra creamy texture. You could also add some sprinkles for a fun presentation.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle some chocolate sauce over the top for double the chocolatey goodness.
- Fresh Fruits: Add sliced strawberries or bananas for a hint of freshness and added flavor.
Feel free to customize your serving style based on what you have at home or your mood!
how to store Chocolate Mug Brownie
If you find yourself with leftovers (though it’s likely you’ll finish it right away!), storing your Chocolate Mug Brownie is fairly simple. Here’s how:
- If you’ve made the brownie in a mug, it’s best to eat it fresh. Brownies, when left out or in the refrigerator for too long, can dry out.
- If you need to store it, cover the mug with plastic wrap or transfer the brownie to an airtight container. It can stay at room temperature if consumed within a day. If you want it to last longer, you can refrigerate it, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
- To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until warm again.
tips to make Chocolate Mug Brownie
To ensure your Chocolate Mug Brownie turns out perfectly every time, consider these tips:
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Watch the Cooking Time: Be cautious with the microwave time. Every microwave is different, so starting with a shorter cooking time is wise. You can always cook it a few seconds more, but you can’t undo an overcooked brownie.
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Use a Large Mug: Make sure your mug is large enough. The batter can bubble up while cooking, and you don’t want it to overflow. An 8-12 ounce (240-350 ml) mug should be just right.
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Mix Well: After adding wet ingredients, ensure you mix them thoroughly. Any dry patches can create a lumpy texture, so keep stirring until the batter is smooth.
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Experiment with Add-ins: Don’t hesitate to try different mix-ins! Chocolate chips, nuts, or even a spoonful of peanut butter can add extra flavor to your brownie.
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Top It Off: For a fun twist, try adding cooked bacon bits or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top to enhance the chocolate flavor.
variation
The beauty of the Chocolate Mug Brownie recipe is its versatility. Here are a few variations you might want to try:
- Nutty Brownie: Add a tablespoon of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for added crunch and flavor.
- Peanut Butter Swirl: Before microwaving, add a spoonful of peanut butter to the center of the brownie batter. It creates a delicious peanut butter swirl that takes the brownie to the next level.
- Mint Chocolate: Swap out the vanilla extract for peppermint extract to give your brownie a refreshing minty flavor. This is especially nice around the holidays!
- Spicy Brownie: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a surprising kick that complements the chocolate beautifully.
Feel free to get creative and mix and match these suggestions!
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of flour. Whole wheat flour or almond flour work as alternatives, but this may slightly alter the flavor and texture.
2. Can I make this brownie dairy-free?
Definitely! Substitute vegetable oil with melted coconut oil or any other dairy-free oil. Use a dairy-free chocolate chip if you want to add some to your recipe.
3. How can I make it gluten-free?
You can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure that all other ingredients used are also gluten-free.
4. Is it okay to use fat substitutes?
You can use applesauce as a substitute for vegetable oil. This will make your brownie a bit lower in calories and provide some moisture.
5. How do I know if my brownie is cooked properly?
A good way to check is by doing the toothpick test. Insert a toothpick into the center of the brownie; if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, it’s done. If it comes out completely clean, it might be overcooked.
6. What if I don’t have a microwave?
If you don’t have a microwave, you can make the brownie in a conventional oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and pour the batter into a small oven-safe dish. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until set in the center.
7. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe for two servings, but it’s best to cook them separately in individual mugs. Cooking them together can lead to uneven baking.
8. How long does it take to cool down?
Let the brownie cool for about 5 minutes after microwaving. This allows it to set and makes it easier to eat safely.
9. Can I add protein powder?
You can add a scoop of protein powder to the mixture if you’re looking to increase your protein intake. Just be aware that it may slightly change the texture of the brownie.
10. Can I bake it in a regular cake pan instead of a mug?
Absolutely! If you want to make a larger batch, simply pour the batter into a greased cake pan and bake at the same temperature, checking for doneness after about 15-20 minutes.
Enjoy your delightful Chocolate Mug Brownie, prepared quickly and simply, all in the comfort of your own kitchen!
