BANANA BREAD MUG CAKE
This Banana Bread Mug Cake offers a quick solution to satisfy sweet cravings without needing an oven or extensive baking time. In under five minutes, you can enjoy a warm, moist cake with the familiar flavours of banana bread. This recipe uses ripe banana for flavour, baking powder for baking, whole wheat flour for added fibre, almond milk for a touch of creaminess and honey for natural sweetness, making it a healthier alternative to traditional cakes. Perfect for a quick snack, dessert, or even breakfast, this mug cake requires only a few simple ingredients and can be tailored with add-ins like cinnamon, chocolate chips, or nuts. It’s single-serving, making it ideal for those looking to enjoy a treat without leftovers and it is vegetarian-friendly.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Desserts
SERVING SIZE
1 serving
CUISINE
American
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
Microwave, Quick & Easy
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Anytime
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Low-Fat, Healthy, Kid-Friendly, Quick & Easy, Vegetarian
DISH TYPE
Cake
INGREDIENTS
- ¼ ripe banana, mashed
- 15g whole wheat flour
- ¼ tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp honey (or maple syrup for a vegan version)
- 1 tbsp almond milk
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 65
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 1g
- Fibre: 2g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 35mg
PREPARATION
- Mash Banana: Using a fork or spoon, mash the ripe banana in a microwave-safe mug until smooth. Make sure to mash thoroughly to avoid chunks.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the whole wheat flour, baking powder, honey, and almond milk to the mug. Stir well to combine, ensuring there are no lumps and the ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Microwave: Microwave the mug on high for 60-90 seconds, depending on the power of your microwave. The cake should rise and look set in the centre; adjust the time slightly if necessary.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
1-2 minutes
TIPS
- Prevent Sticking: To prevent the cake from sticking, lightly grease the inside of the mug with a small amount of oil or cooking spray. This step also makes it easier to clean up afterwards.
- Test For Doneness: Microwaves vary in power, so use a toothpick to check the centre after cooking. Insert it into the middle; if it comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready. If it’s still wet, microwave it for an additional 10 seconds until set.
- Adjust Sweetness: For a slightly sweeter cake, add a pinch of brown sugar or an extra drizzle of honey before cooking.
VARIATIONS
- Add Cinnamon: A pinch of cinnamon adds a warm, spiced flavour that complements the banana. Sprinkle about ¼ tsp into the batter.
- Nutty Flavour: Chopped walnuts or pecans (about 1 tsp) add a nice crunch and protein boost to the cake.
- Chocolatey Addition: Add a few dark chocolate chips for a more indulgent dessert experience.
- Sweeter Option: Swap the honey for maple syrup or agave for a sweeter, plant-based alternative. You could also sprinkle a small amount of powdered sugar on top after microwaving for added sweetness.
- Extra Flavour Boost: For added richness, stir a dash of vanilla extract or a pinch of sea salt into the batter before microwaving.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Fridge: If you have leftovers or want to prepare the batter in advance, store the mug cake in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep for up to 2 days, though it’s best enjoyed fresh for optimal texture.
- Freezer: You can freeze the cooked mug cake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, reheat it in the microwave in 10-second intervals until warmed through.