Chocolate Orange Mug Cake

// Indulge in instant sweetness with our 2-Minute Chocolate Orange Mug Cake! Watch our quick video for a heavenly dessert experience.



This Chocolate Orange Mug Cake, or 2 Minute Microwave Chocolate Orange Cake, is an indulgent combination of chocolate and orange. Making this super moist, fluffy, and delicious chocolate treat is a breeze in the microwave.

Simply add all the ingredients to a microwave-safe mug or container, whisk the batter, top it with some chocolate chips and chunks, and microwave for 2 minutes.

Made with just a few simple ingredients, it is the perfect treat for a quick after-meal dessert, brunch, or even late-night sweet cravings.

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a chocolate orange mug cake in a white dish with orange slices

About Chocolate Orange Mug Cake

Chocolate Orange Mug Cake is a vegetarian, vegan, egg-free, and nut-free dessert baked in a microwave.

Imagine a classic-looking dessert that combines the luscious flavors of chocolate and the freshness of orange in a cooked casserole or a mug to create a chocolate orange mug cake.

The fusion of cocoa goodness and citrusy orange undertones gives this chocolate orange mug cake a beautifully refreshing yet rich flavor profile. A spoonful of this cake will leave your taste buds longing for more.

This is a double-serving dessert, making it a wonderful Valentine’s Day couple dessert or a romantic movie night dessert along with chocolate lava cake, and some sparkling wine. The great thing about this decadent chocolate treat is that it can also be converted into a single-serving masterpiece by simply halving the dessert.

The ease of microwaving transforms this chocolate dessert into a speedy and irresistible treat, making it an ideal choice for those times when your sweet tooth hankering hits, and you want instant gratification.

It is one of the quickest and easiest solutions to satisfy your chocolate cravings.

a chocolate orange mug cake in a baking dish with orange slices and chocolate chips

Also, instant microwaving makes it a wonderful choice for chocolate enthusiasts who have busy lives and want to indulge in a decadent treat without the hassle of extensive baking.

If you love microwave mug cakes like Carrot cake mug cake, Oreo mug cake, Chocolate Molten Lava mug cake, Brownie in a mug, Eggless Apple Pie mug cake Recipe, or Chocolate Molten Lava mug cake, then you will definitely enjoy this easy dessert recipe. So why wait? Make this super simple microwave chocolate orange cake and elevate your dessert game to new heights.

This Chocolate Orange Mug Cake

✓ is quick and easy to make

✓ gets done in just 2 minutes

✓ is baked in a microwave

✓ can also be baked in the oven

✓ is suitable for a quick dessert or brunch

✓ has a perfect balance of flavors

✓ is a complete no-fuss recipe

✓ has the goodness of rich chocolate and zesty orange

✓ is prepared using simple ingredients

✓ can also be made gluten-free

✓ is vegetarian and vegan-friendly

✓ has the essence of fresh oranges

✓ is a double-serving dessert

can also be made into a mug cake

Ingredients

  • Oranges: The star ingredient of this recipe. I have used about 4 fresh oranges to yield refreshing juice. Fresh juice tastes best in this recipe, but you can also use store-bought juice.

  • Flour: For making this cake, I have used all-purpose or plain flour. However, you can replicate the same recipe using wheat flour for a healthier twist. Gluten-free all-purpose blend can also be used here if you are on a gluten-free diet.

  • Oil: I have used about 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil for making the batter. You can also use melted unsalted butter for both the batter.

  • Cocoa Powder: To give it a chocolate flavor, I have used unsweetened cocoa powder. You can also use Dutch-processed, dark, or black cocoa powder to add that chocolatey goodness.

  • Salt: A pinch to intensify the overall chocolate flavor.

  • Sweetener: I have sweetened this chocolate orange cake with granulated sugar. However, you can also use healthier alternatives like coconut sugar, jaggery, maple syrup, or agave nectar. Feel free to adjust the sweetness based on your personal taste preference.

  • Rising Agents: I have used a bit of baking powder and baking soda to rise the cake.

  • Orange Zest: You will need about 1 teaspoon of fresh orange zest for an additional refreshing twist and zing.

  • Chocolate Chips or Chunks: The cake batter is topped with a handful of chocolate chunks for a decadent chocolate-y texture and taste.

someone is holding a pan of chocolate orange mug cake with orange slices and chocolate

Variations

Flavorings: 

I did not add any additional flavorings to the batter because the orange juice and zest are enough to infuse the cake with a burst of freshness. However, if you want added flavorings, you can go with vanilla extract, orange oil, or orange extract.

You can also add a splash of orange blossom water here.

Nuts:

For some nutty crunch, you can add finely crushed nuts like hazelnuts, walnuts, or almonds to the batter. The nuts add a nutty crunch while providing richness and delightful textural contrast.

Chocolate Frosting: 

I have served the cake as it is. For a more decadent chocolatey taste, you can opt for chocolate ganache or any other chocolate frosting of your choice.

Orange Chocolate Banana Cake: 

Orange and banana taste lovely together. For making this version, you can add 1/2 mashed banana to the batter. You might need to reduce the amount of orange juice from this recipe.

Mixed Berry Cake: 

Berries and chocolate are the best pairing. For making this variation, omit the orange juice and zest from the recipe and replace it with 1/2 cup of mashed berries of your choice. You might also need to add 2-3 tablespoons of milk in this recipe.

a chocolate orange mug cake in a white dish with orange slices

Storage Suggestions

This cake tastes best when served warm immediately after microwaving. There is no chance that there will be any leftovers, but if you find yourself with leftovers, feel free to store them in the refrigerator, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap.

Whenever you want to dig in, simply reheat the cake in a microwave for about 30 seconds or until warm. This reheating ensures the cake retains moisture and all its delicious texture and flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Like any other mug cake, this chocolate orange mug cake can be served as it is. If you are planning to serve it at brunch, you can accompany it with some fresh orange juice, a cup of hot coffee, or even a plain glass of milk.

This cake looks pretty enough to serve at high tea parties or brunch parties. You can easily add it to your brunch menu along with other chocolate desserts like chocolate crepes, banana chocolate muffins, eggless chocolate mousse, chocolate pomegranate bites,  chocolate cheesecake, and chocolate palmiers.

a spoon with a piece of chocolate orange mug cake on it and a white dish with the cake in background

Chocolate Orange Mug Cake in an Oven

If you don’t like the microwave, you can bake this cake in the oven. To bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). 

Place the baking pan in the oven and bake this cake for approximately 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. 

Make sure that there is no wet batter on the toothpick. Keep a close eye on it after 10 minutes to avoid over-baking.

Chocolate Orange Mug Cake in a Stovetop Pan

Don’t have a microwave or oven and still want to bake this cake? Then there is good news for you. You can bake it on the stovetop. 

Simply preheat a pan, place a steel stand in it, then place your baking casserole or tin on it, and cover the pan with the lid. 

Bake over medium-low heat for about 10 minutes or until the cake is baked. Make sure that the center is cooked through.

These times are approximate, and actual baking time may vary based on your specific pan or stove. To check the doneness of the cake, always perform the toothpick test.

a chocolate orange mug cake with a piece taken out in a white dish with orange slices

Anupama’s Tips & Tricks to Make the Best Chocolate Orange Mug Cake:

  1. Batter Consistency: To achieve the perfectly moist, soft, and fluffy cake, make sure that your batter is slightly thick.

  2. Microwaving: To microwave it perfectly, ensure that you microwave it for 2 minutes initially and then cook it for additional time. It appears to be undercooked.

  3. Timing: My cake took 2 minutes to cook, but this time may vary depending on the temperature of your microwave oven. Adjust the time based on your microwave wattage for optimal results.

  4. Resting Time: Let the cake cool for at least 5-7 minutes before serving. This step prevents unwanted burning while also enhancing the taste and texture.

  5. Baking in a Pan: If you want to bake it in a cast-iron pan.

  6. Mug Cake: To make it a mug cake, divide the batter into two mugs and microwave each mug for about 40 seconds to 1 minute or until set.

  7. Butter: I have added oil to the cake batter; you can also use unsalted butter or margarine here.

FAQ

How long do I microwave the Chocolate Orange Mug Cake?

I have microwaved this cake for about 2 minutes in an 800W microwave. Bake the cake for about 2 minutes or until it rises and sets. The cooking time may vary depending on the microwave temperature, so adjust the time based on your microwave wattage for optimal results.

How to Make Gluten-Free Chocolate Orange Mug Cake?

Making this cake gluten-free is possible. To make it gluten-free, swap all-purpose flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Chickpea flour or buckwheat flour can also be used for a gluten-free version.

How to Make Vegan Chocolate Orange Mug Cake?

This recipe gives you a vegan version of chocolate orange mug cake. If you plan to replace oil with butter, make sure to use vegan or plant-based butter alternatives.

Is it possible to make a larger batch for a group?

Yes, baking this cake for a large group is possible. Simply multiply the ingredients by the desired number of servings and increase the microwaving time depending on the amount of cake batter.

How to Make Chocolate Orange Cake with Whole Wheat Flour?

That is really simple. Substitute all-purpose flour with the same amount of whole wheat flour.

Can I bake the Chocolate Orange Mug Cake in the oven?

A: Yes, baking this cake in the oven is possible. Follow the detailed baking instructions given above.

Can I use a sugar substitute?

Certainly, you can use healthier sugar alternatives. Use any sweetener of your choice, but keep in mind that each sweetener will give a different taste and texture. Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your dietary needs.

How should I store leftover Chocolate Orange Mug Cake, and can I reheat it?

Store the leftover cake covered or tightly wrapped in the refrigerator. Before serving, reheat it in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until warm and serve your refreshingly delicious microwave orange chocolate cake.


Chocolate Orange Mug Cake (Step-by-step photo instructions)

How to Make Chocolate Orange Mug Cake

  1. Slice oranges and juice using a citrus juicer. Keep it aside.
  2. Image of the recipe cooking step-1-1 for Chocolate Orange Mug Cake
  3. Also, zest 1 orange using a grater and set it aside.
  4. Image of the recipe cooking step-1-2 for Chocolate Orange Mug Cake
  5. In a microwave-safe casserole, mug, or bowl, combine the all-purpose or whole wheat flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, sugar (adjusting the sweetness according to your taste), baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Whisk all the dry ingredients well.
  6. Image of the recipe cooking step-1-3 for Chocolate Orange Mug Cake
  7. Now, add the melted coconut oil or olive oil to the dry ingredients. Then add about 6 tablespoons of orange juice and 1 teaspoon of orange zest for a burst of fresh citrus flavor.
  8. Image of the recipe cooking step-1-4 for Chocolate Orange Mug Cake
  9. Whisk well to make a smooth and lump-free batter. If your batter seems too thick, add about 2 more tablespoons of orange juice. Wipe off the edges and gently tap the pan.
  10. Image of the recipe cooking step-1-5 for Chocolate Orange Mug Cake
  11. Top the batter with a handful of dark chocolate or chocolate chips for that decadent chocolatey texture. Microwave the batter on high for 2 minutes or until the cake rises and sets. You can adjust the microwaving time based on your microwave wattage. Carefully remove the casserole or bowl from the microwave and let the cake cool for 4-5 minutes.
  12. Image of the recipe cooking step-1-6 for Chocolate Orange Mug Cake
  13. This cake is best when served warm, with its moist and rich texture. Garnish the cake with orange slices and enjoy your homemade 2-Minute Chocolate Orange Cake warm straight from the casserole or mug. You can also decorate the cake with chocolate frosting, dusting sugar, or even with a drizzle of melted chocolate for extra indulgence.
  14. Image of the recipe cooking step-1-7 for Chocolate Orange Mug Cake

Recipe Card


Chocolate Orange Mug Cake [Recipe]

Recipe Image
Indulge in instant sweetness with our 2-Minute Chocolate Orange Mug Cake! Watch our quick video for a heavenly dessert experience.
★★★★★
(Rating: 5 from 6 reviews)

Prep time 🕐 Cook time 🕐 Total time 🕐
3 mins
Category ☶ Cuisine ♨ Serves ☺
Desserts International 2
Nutrition Info ⊛ Serving size ⊚
430 calories 1

INGREDIENTS

For 2 Minute Chocolate Orange Cake
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose or whole wheat flour
  • 4 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil or olive oil
  • 3 1/2 tablespoons of sugar or maple syrup or your favorite sweetener
  • 4 fresh oranges to make juice
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest
  • Handful of dark chocolate or chocolate chips

INSTRUCTIONS:

How to Make Chocolate Orange Mug Cake
  1. Slice oranges and juice using a citrus juicer. Keep it aside.
  2. Also, zest 1 orange using a grater and set it aside.
  3. In a microwave-safe casserole, mug, or bowl, combine the all-purpose or whole wheat flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, sugar (adjusting the sweetness according to your taste), baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Whisk all the dry ingredients well.
  4. Now, add the melted coconut oil or olive oil to the dry ingredients. Then add about 6 tablespoons of orange juice and 1 teaspoon of orange zest for a burst of fresh citrus flavor.
  5. Whisk well to make a smooth and lump-free batter. If your batter seems too thick, add about 2 more tablespoons of orange juice. Wipe off the edges and gently tap the pan.
  6. Top the batter with a handful of dark chocolate or chocolate chips for that decadent chocolatey texture. Microwave the batter on high for 2 minutes or until the cake rises and sets. You can adjust the microwaving time based on your microwave wattage. Carefully remove the casserole or bowl from the microwave and let the cake cool for 4-5 minutes.
  7. This cake is best when served warm, with its moist and rich texture. Garnish the cake with orange slices and enjoy your homemade 2-Minute Chocolate Orange Cake warm straight from the casserole or mug. You can also decorate the cake with chocolate frosting, dusting sugar, or even with a drizzle of melted chocolate for extra indulgence.

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NOTES:

  1. To achieve the perfectly moist, soft, and fluffy cake, make sure that your batter is slightly thick.
  2. To microwave it perfectly, ensure that you microwave it for 2 minutes initially and then cook it for additional time. It appears to be undercooked.


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