Craving a rich, chocolatey dessert but want to stay on track with your keto lifestyle? Look no further than this Keto Chocolate Mug Cake Recipe – a quick, single-serve treat that’s not only low in carbs but also deliciously satisfying. Made in just a few minutes using a microwave, this recipe is perfect for those moments when your sweet tooth kicks in but you don’t want to derail your dietary goals.
Mug cakes are the ultimate in convenience – no need to preheat the oven or make a big batch of dessert. And for those on a ketogenic diet, having a quick, portion-controlled dessert like this ensures that you enjoy indulgence without guilt. Best of all, it’s made with wholesome, keto-friendly ingredients like almond flour, cocoa powder, and a sugar-free sweetener.
Let’s dive into the details of this easy and decadent low-carb dessert!
🕒 Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Other Details
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Prep Time: 3 minutes
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Active Time: 2 minutes
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Resting Time: 2 minutes (cooling)
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Total Time: 7 minutes
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Cuisine: American, Keto, Low-Carb
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Course: Dessert
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Servings: 1 mug cake
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Calories: Approx. 230 kcal per serving
🍴 Equipment Needed
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Microwave-safe mug (minimum 10 oz capacity)
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Measuring spoons
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Small whisk or fork
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Microwave oven
🧾 Ingredients
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2 tbsp almond flour (fine blanched)
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1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
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1 tbsp erythritol (or keto-friendly sweetener of choice)
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1/4 tsp baking powder
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1 egg (medium to large)
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1 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
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1/2 tsp vanilla extract
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Pinch of salt
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Optional:
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1 tbsp sugar-free chocolate chips
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Whipped cream or keto ice cream for topping
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🍽️ Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
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Calories: 230 kcal
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Fat: 20g
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Protein: 7g
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Total Carbs: 6g
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Fiber: 3g
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Net Carbs: 3g
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Sugar: 1g
Note: Nutrition values may vary slightly depending on specific ingredient brands used.
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Mug
Choose a microwave-safe mug that’s at least 10 oz to prevent overflow. Lightly grease it with butter or non-stick spray to make sure your cake doesn’t stick to the sides.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In the mug, combine the almond flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, erythritol, baking powder, and a small pinch of salt. Use a small fork or whisk to blend them well, making sure there are no lumps.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Crack the egg directly into the mug and add the melted butter and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until you get a smooth, uniform batter. Be sure to scrape the sides and bottom so no dry bits remain.
Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips (Optional)
For a gooier center, stir in sugar-free chocolate chips. This step adds a luxurious melt-in-your-mouth texture, especially if you serve it warm.
Step 5: Microwave
Microwave the mug cake on high for 60 to 75 seconds. Cooking times vary by microwave, so start with 60 seconds and add extra time in 10-second intervals if needed. The cake should rise and appear set on top but still slightly soft in the center for a moist texture.
Step 6: Cool Slightly
Let the cake sit for 1–2 minutes before digging in. This allows the structure to set properly and avoids burning your mouth!
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Top with a dollop of sugar-free whipped cream or a scoop of keto ice cream. You can also sprinkle some shaved dark chocolate or add a few berries if you’re not strictly zero-carb.
💡 Tips & Variations
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Nut-Free Option: Replace almond flour with 1 tbsp of coconut flour (since coconut flour is more absorbent). Add an extra egg yolk to maintain moisture.
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Moist Texture: Do not overcook. The mug cake continues to cook even after the microwave stops, so err on the side of undercooking if unsure.
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Flavor Boosters: Add a pinch of cinnamon, espresso powder, or a drop of peppermint extract for different flavor profiles.
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Egg-Free Version: Use 1 tbsp Greek yogurt or 1 tbsp flax egg, though the texture will be slightly denser.
🥄 Why You’ll Love This Keto Chocolate Mug Cake
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Quick Fix for Cravings: Ready in under 5 minutes, it’s the perfect solution when you want something sweet ASAP.
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Keto & Low-Carb: Only 3g net carbs per serving keeps you within your daily carb goals.
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Simple Ingredients: No hard-to-find items or artificial additives – just real, whole food ingredients.
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Portion-Controlled: Single-serve size helps avoid overeating while still feeling indulgent.
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Customizable: Whether you like it fudgy, cakey, or with fillings, this recipe adapts easily to your taste.
✅ Storage & Reheating
Though best enjoyed fresh, you can store a cooked mug cake in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Reheat in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. Avoid freezing as the texture changes significantly upon thawing.
🌟 Final Thoughts
This Keto Chocolate Mug Cake Recipe is everything you need when a dessert craving strikes but you don’t want to compromise your keto progress. Fast, easy, and irresistibly chocolatey, it proves that living a low-carb lifestyle doesn’t mean giving up indulgent treats. Whether you enjoy it post-dinner, as a midday snack, or even a breakfast treat, it’s guaranteed to hit the spot without hitting your macros.

I am Ashley Doyle, Senior Specialist in Food & Policy at The Humane Society of the United States and editor at airfryermama.com. I am passionate about transforming our global food system by promoting delicious, climate-friendly, plant-based foods. After transitioning from law to food and public policy, I now work with major food service companies to develop plant-based initiatives and animal welfare policies. My goal is to drive institutional change to combat climate change and improve our food system.