Introduction
The Mug Matcha Cake is the ultimate dessert solution for the modern baker—a decadent, fluffy, single-serving cake ready in under five minutes. Originating from the viral trend of microwave mug cakes, this variation incorporates the vibrant, slightly earthy flavor of Japanese matcha green tea. It’s special because it delivers the complex taste profile of a sophisticated dessert (minus the baking time and extensive cleanup), making it perfect for a late-night craving or a quick afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients
- All-Purpose Flour: 3 tablespoons (45g)
- Granulated Sugar: 3 tablespoons (38g)
- Matcha Green Tea Powder (culinary grade): 1 teaspoon (5g)
- Baking Powder: ¼ teaspoon (1g)
- Salt: A pinch
- Milk (dairy or non-dairy): 3 tablespoons (45 ml)
- Neutral Oil (vegetable or canola): 1 tablespoon (15 ml)
- Egg Yolk: 1 small (optional, for richness) OR 1 tablespoon whole egg
- Vanilla Extract: ¼ teaspoon
Step-by-step Preparation
- Combine Dry Ingredients (30 seconds): In a microwave-safe mug (capacity 10–12 oz), whisk together the flour, sugar, matcha powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Tip: Sift the matcha powder directly into the mug to avoid lumps, ensuring the green tea flavor is evenly distributed.
- Add Wet Ingredients (30 seconds): Pour in the milk, oil, egg yolk (or whole egg), and vanilla extract. Use a small fork or whisk to mix thoroughly.
- Tip: Scrape down the sides of the mug to ensure all the dry flour at the bottom is incorporated. Do not overmix; stop stirring once no streaks of flour remain, otherwise the cake will be tough.
- Microwave and Cook (60–90 seconds): Place the mug in the microwave. Cook on high power (1000W) for 60 to 90 seconds.
- Tip: Start with 60 seconds. The cake is done when the top looks set, and it pulls slightly away from the sides of the mug. If it still looks wet in the center, microwave in 10-second increments until cooked through. Be careful not to overcook, as this results in a dry cake.
- Cool and Serve (1 minute): Carefully remove the hot mug using oven mitts. Allow the cake to cool in the mug for 1 minute before serving.
Nutritional Information
This recipe yields one serving. Estimated calories per serving (depending on oil and sugar content) are approximately 300–350 calories. The primary health benefit comes from the matcha powder, which is rich in antioxidants, particularly EGCGs (Epigallocatechin gallate), known for boosting metabolism and providing sustained, jitter-free energy.
Storage
Mug cakes are designed for immediate consumption and are best enjoyed straight out of the microwave. If you must store leftovers, cover the mug tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Reheating is not recommended, as microwave cakes tend to lose their moisture rapidly; however, if you choose to reheat, use a 10-second burst in the microwave.
Conclusion
This Mug Matcha Cake is a fantastic foundation for experimentation. Serve it warm with a dusting of powdered sugar, a dollop of fresh whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. For variations, try folding 1 tablespoon of white chocolate chips into the batter before cooking, or substituting the vanilla extract with almond extract for a deeper nutty profile. Enjoy your instant green tea masterpiece!