How to Make a Lemon Mug Cake in The Microwave

If there’s one thing I look forward to every Spring season, it’s the lemon desserts. Whether it’s a slice of a lemon loaf, a lemon poppy seed muffin, or chilled lemon bars, I just love that tangy lemon flavor. But what are you supposed to do when those late night cravings hit or need a quick lemon fix when you’re short on time?

That’s when this lemon mug cake recipe comes in clutch! This cake tastes like it’s from a bakery, but it’s made in the microwave! No fancy tools and no long cooking time. Just a warm, zesty lemon cake ready with minimal prep time. The next time you’re in need of a sweet lemon treat, give this recipe a try!

Since you are here and love mug cake recipes, check out this Moist Peanut Butter Mug Cake, this Chocolate Chip Mug Cookie, this Single Serve Pumpkin Mug Cake, or this Banana Bread Mug Cake Recipe.

Ingredients for this easy Lemon Mug Cake Recipe

Here are the ingredients you will need to make this single serving cake. Scroll down to the recipe card at the end of this page for the detailed ingredient measurements. 

• All-purpose flour: Provides structure and texture to the cake.
• Granulated Sugar: sweetens the moist cake.
• Baking Powder: acts as the leavening agent to help the cake rise.
• Pinch of Salt: enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness.
• Melted Butter: adds moisture to the cake.
• Milk: adds liquid for moisture and helps bind the ingredients together. You can use whole milk, 2% milk, or the best non-dairy milk like soy or oat milk.
• Lemon Juice and Lemon Zest: provide tartness and brighter flavors.
• Vanilla Extract: enhances the overall flavor profile of this single-serve dessert.
• Egg Yolk: helps bind the ingredients together for a tender texture.

How to make this Lemon Mug Cake Recipe

This is how you can make this sweet treat. Make sure to scroll down to the recipe card at the bottom of this post for the microwave time and complete step-by-step instructions! 

• In a microwave-safe mug, whisk together the flour, white sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt until well blended.
• Pour in the melted butter, milk, lemon juice, properly grated lemon zest, vanilla extract, and egg yolk. Stir until the cake batter is smooth and fully combined.

• Microwave just until the surface is set but still a bit shiny.
• Let the mug cake sit for about a minute to cool slightly. For an extra touch, sprinkle with powdered sugar or top with a quick lemon glaze made from lemon juice and powdered sugar. My personal favorite is a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

Tips and Tricks for the best results

• Use fresh lemon juice and fresh lemon zest from an organic lemon for the most flavorful cake.
• Weigh your flour with a kitchen scale instead of using a measuring cup. Better accuracy means better texture.
• Top the cake with this Microwave Warm Lemon Curd Recipe to be extra fancy and for a tangy flavor boost!
• Stir just until the wet ingredients and dry ingredients have combined, and don’t overmix. Overmixing can make the cake tough instead of soft and tender.

Why do you need to make this Lemon Mug Cake Recipe?

• This minimal ingredient single-serving dessert is the perfect size for one person to enjoy.
• It only has simple steps, simple ingredients, and is ready in just minutes.
• The bright flavor of this warm lemon cake has just the right amount of sweet-and-sour balance.
• This easy recipe is a very convenient solution for satisfying your sweet cravings.

Frequently asked questions – FAQ

Can I make a gluten-free lemon mug cake?

Yes you can! Just replace the regular flour with a gluten-free flour baking blend, coconut flour, or almond flour and you’ll be good to go.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of freshly squeezed?

You can if you want to or if it’s more convenient for you. Fresh juice from fresh lemons will always be better but I understand it’s not always that easy. Especially since this is a quick recipe, it makes sense being short on time or not wanting to expend the energy.

How can I increase the lemon flavor?

Add a ¼ teaspoon of lemon extract or lemon paste for an extra bright citrus taste.

Does it matter if I use butter or oil?

They each bring a different texture and flavor. Regular melted butter gives your lemon mug cake recipe a rich taste and slightly chewy result. While oil doesn’t add a flavor, but does make it super soft and extra moist. If you do want to add a little flavor from your oil, use coconut oil.

How do I make a quick glaze for this lemon mug cake recipe?

To make a simple glaze, stir together ¼ cup of powdered sugar with 1–2 teaspoons of fresh lemon juice until smooth. Start with one teaspoon and add a few drops at a time until you get a smooth consistency.

For other topping ideas, try it with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

How big of a mug should I use?

The size of your mug should be a large mug, similar to the size of a small bowl.

How do I store my leftover cake?

You can either keep your cake in the mug and simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or you can transfer to an airtight container. Store your leftovers in the fridge, it should last for about 3-4 days.

The Best Lemon Mug Cake Recipe