Description
This Cocoa Swirl Protein Mug Cake with Berry Top is a quick and satisfying dessert or high-protein snack that comes together in minutes. It offers a guilt-free indulgence, perfect for a healthy treat after a workout or a comforting grab-and-go breakfast.
Ingredients
- 1 scoop (30 g) protein powder (whey or plant-based, vanilla or unflavored recommended)
- 1 tbsp (15 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 to 4 tbsp (45 to 60 ml) milk (dairy or non-dairy, unsweetened almond milk suggested)
- 1 to 2 tsp sweetener (granulated erythritol or sugar)
- 0.5 tsp baking powder
- 0.25 cup (30 g) fresh or frozen berries (raspberries or blueberries)
- Optional: 1 tsp extra cocoa powder or a few mini chocolate chips (for swirl)
- Optional: 1 tbsp oat flour (for added fiber)
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a microwave-safe mug (12-16 oz capacity), combine protein powder, unsweetened cocoa powder, sweetener, and baking powder. Use a fork to stir thoroughly until all ingredients are powdery, uniformly blended, and any small lumps are smooth.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in milk and stir until just combined. Do not overmix; a few small lumps are fine. For the beautiful cocoa swirl, drop a teaspoon of extra cocoa powder or a few mini chocolate chips directly onto the batter’s surface and lightly swirl with a toothpick.
- Microwave Magic: Place the mug in the center of your microwave and cook on high for 60-90 seconds. Begin with 60 seconds and check for doneness; the top should appear set, and the edges firm, but the center should still be moist.
- Berry Topping: Carefully remove the warm mug cake from the microwave (it will be hot!). Immediately top your warm cake with a generous handful of fresh or frozen berries.
Notes
This recipe offers minimal cleanup as everything happens right in the mug. For a gluten-free protein mug cake, ensure your chosen protein powder is certified gluten-free. For a delicious vegan option, use a plant-based protein powder and a non-dairy milk. If your cake looks dry after microwaving, a quick splash of 1-2 teaspoons of milk can moisten it slightly before serving. Using plump, ripe berries provides the best natural flavor and sweetness. Consider adding 1 tbsp of oat flour for additional fiber and a heartier texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Microwave
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mug cake
- Calories: 280 calories
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
Keywords: protein mug cake, cocoa, berries, healthy dessert, quick snack, high protein, microwave, easy, guilt-free, family-friendly