Hot Cocoa Cupcake Mugs Recipe
There’s just something irresistibly magical about Hot Cocoa Cupcake Mugs — imagine the nostalgia of a mug of hot cocoa, but transformed into an amazingly soft, chocolatey cake that comes together in minutes. This dessert captures all those cozy winter vibes even in the middle of summer! You whip it up in your favorite mug, jazz it up with marshmallows and whipped cream, and dive in for a melty, gooey treat that’s basically the hug your sweet tooth has been craving. Hot Cocoa Cupcake Mugs are the ultimate quick comfort dessert for any day, any mood, any chocolate lover.

Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Hot Cocoa Cupcake Mugs is just how uncomplicated they are! Every ingredient plays a special role, creating that rich, chocolatey center, tender crumb, and all those luscious toppings. Don’t skip a thing — each piece stacks up perfectly for tastiness.
- All-purpose flour: The backbone of your mug cake, giving it structure and just the right amount of fluffiness.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens every bite with just the right level of classic cupcake goodness.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Brings the deep, chocolate flavor that makes these Hot Cocoa Cupcake Mugs ultra-satisfying.
- Baking powder: Ensures your mug cake rises up light and airy in just moments.
- Salt: A pinch sharpens the cocoa flavor and balances the sweetness beautifully.
- Milk: Adds moisture, so your cake turns out perfectly tender and not the least bit dry.
- Vegetable oil: Keeps the crumb delightfully soft and rich.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the chocolate and gives that little bakery-fresh undertone.
- Mini chocolate chips: Melty chocolate pockets make every bite even more decadent.
- Mini marshmallows: A must! They melt into gooey clouds, just like your favorite hot cocoa.
- Whipped cream and chocolate syrup: The crowning glory — pile them on for true hot cocoa cupcake mug magic!
How to Make Hot Cocoa Cupcake Mugs
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Grab your favorite microwave-safe mug (10–12 oz works great) and add the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Whisk or stir well so everything is completely blended — this helps the cake bake evenly and prevents any cocoa or flour clumps from sneaking into your bites later on.
Step 2: Stir in the Wet Ingredients
Pour in your milk, vegetable oil, and that splash of vanilla extract. Take your time stirring so you get a smooth, lump-free batter with no dry pockets. The mixture will look runny at first, but that’s exactly what you want for a moist, melt-in-your-mouth cake.
Step 3: Fold in the Mini Chocolate Chips
Drop in those mini chocolate chips and give it a gentle stir — you want them scattered throughout for molten patches of chocolate in every bite. This small extra makes Hot Cocoa Cupcake Mugs truly special.
Step 4: Microwave and Add Marshmallows
Microwave your mug cake on high for 70–90 seconds. Start checking at 70 seconds: the cake should be puffed up and just set in the center. Immediately top with mini marshmallows; the heat of the cake will soften and melt them, giving pure hot cocoa vibes right in your mug.
Step 5: Cool Slightly and Decorate
Let your mug cake cool for about 2 minutes so you don’t scorch your tongue (trust me, it’s worth the wait!). Finish with a swirl of whipped cream and a decadent drizzle of chocolate syrup. Dive in while it’s still warm and gooey!
How to Serve Hot Cocoa Cupcake Mugs

Garnishes
Your Hot Cocoa Cupcake Mugs beg for fun and over-the-top garnishes! Go all out with extra mini marshmallows, festive sprinkles, chocolate curls, or even a dusting of cocoa powder. A stick of chocolate or peppermint can make it feel extra special for holidays and gatherings.
Side Dishes
Pair a mug cake with a scoop of vanilla or peppermint ice cream to contrast the warm cake with cool creaminess. Even a glass of ice-cold milk or a hot espresso can turn your dessert moment into a true treat-yourself occasion.
Creative Ways to Present
These Hot Cocoa Cupcake Mugs are perfect for parties! Arrange a “build-your-own” topping bar with jars of sprinkles, mini marshmallows, and various syrups. Use mismatched, colorful mugs for a whimsical display, or tie ribbons to the handles for a festive, giftable presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have any leftovers, let the mug cake cool fully, then cover the mug tightly with plastic wrap or foil. It will keep well at room temperature for up to a day, or in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Freezing
Hot Cocoa Cupcake Mugs aren’t ideal for freezing since the fluffy cake and melty marshmallows are best fresh. If you must, wrap cooled cakes (without toppings) tightly and freeze for up to a month — but be aware the texture can change a little after thawing.
Reheating
For the best warm-and-fuzzy experience, reheat the mug cake (with any marshmallows and chocolate chips) in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. Add fresh whipped cream and chocolate syrup after reheating to bring it right back to ooey-gooey glory.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Dessert
Yes! While all-purpose flour is classic, you can swap in a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend if needed. Using whole wheat flour will yield a denser cake, so keep that in mind for the finished texture.
What if I don’t have mini chocolate chips?
No worries — regular chocolate chips work in a pinch, just chop them up a bit so they distribute easily. You can also try white chocolate chips or even small caramel bits for a twist!
How can I make this vegan?
Absolutely! Use your favorite non-dairy milk, substitute the whipped cream with vegan whipped topping, and ensure your chocolate chips and marshmallows are vegan-friendly. The result will be just as delicious and comforting.
Can I double this recipe for more than one person?
Yes! Make individual Hot Cocoa Cupcake Mugs for each guest in separate mugs, or multiply the dry and wet ingredients in a big bowl, then divide evenly among mugs before microwaving each one separately for the best results.
Why did my mug cake turn out rubbery?
This usually happens if the cake is overcooked. All microwaves vary, so check at the 70-second mark, and err on the side of caution. The center should look just set, not dry; a little gooeyness is perfect for Hot Cocoa Cupcake Mugs!
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re craving a midnight snack, a cozy treat on a chilly afternoon, or a dessert that’ll wow your friends in the easiest way possible, Hot Cocoa Cupcake Mugs deliver every time. This mug cake brings big chocolate flavor and heartwarming joy in minutes — go ahead and try it, and watch those sweet, nostalgic vibes take over your kitchen!
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Hot Cocoa Cupcake Mugs Recipe
- Total Time: 7 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a cozy and delicious treat with these Hot Cocoa Cupcake Mugs. A single serving of warm, chocolatey goodness that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth cravings. This easy microwave dessert is a quick fix for those moments when you need a little pick-me-up.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional Toppings:
- 2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons mini marshmallows
- Whipped cream and chocolate syrup for topping
Instructions
- In a microwave-safe mug, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Fold in mini chocolate chips.
- Microwave on high for 70–90 seconds, until the cake has risen and the center is just set.
- Allow to cool for 2 minutes before serving.
Stir in milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth.
Immediately top with mini marshmallows to allow them to soften into the warm cake.
Add whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate syrup if desired.
Notes
- Cooking time may vary depending on your microwave, so check at the 70-second mark and adjust as needed.
- For a richer flavor, use hot chocolate mix in place of cocoa powder and sugar.
- Best enjoyed warm straight from the mug.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Microwave
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mug cake
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 32 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 54 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg