Mug cakes are one of my favorite dessert options because they’re smaller portions, insanely quick and easy, and still taste great! This lemon blueberry mug cake is the perfect flavor for summer, and as an added bonus you don’t even need to turn on the oven in the summer heat!
Reasons to Love Mug Cakes
- Fast. You can cook a mug cake in 1-2 minutes, depending on the wattage of your microwave
- Tons of Flavors. There’s no limit to the flavors you can make – this lemon blueberry mug cake is just one of infinite possibilities!
- Small Portions. Mug cakes are ideal for 1-2 people. You can also make many different mugs for a party in different flavors, which provide an easier way for guests to have a bigger selection!
- No Fancy Equipment. You just need a microwave safe mug, a microwave, and some measuring spoons, and you probably have all of these in your kitchen already! Bonus points for not needing an oven, especially in the heat of the summer!
- Tasty. Even though mug cakes are slightly spongier than oven-baked cakes, they’re still delicious, and there’s no beating the speed and convenience (so you can sacrifice a little texture)!
Quick + Easy Recipes
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Blueberry Lemon Mug Cake Ingredients
- 4 Tbsp all purpose flour
- 2 Tbsp brown sugar
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ⅛ tsp salt
- 3 Tbsp milk
- 1 tsp oil (I use olive)
- 1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp fresh lemon zest
- ¼ cup fresh blueberries (or more to taste)
Ingredient Tips and Substitutions
- You can sub an equal amount of gluten free all purpose flour if you need a GF version
- The brown sugar can be swapped for granulated
- Feel free to use non-dairy milk if needed. You can also swap up to half of the milk out for sour cream if you prefer
- Add some extra fresh blueberries or powdered sugar as a topping (optional)
- If you’re not a fan of blueberry, check out my recipe for a plain Lemon Mug Cake with icing!
How to Make Lemon Blueberry Mug Cake
- Add all dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt) to a 12-ounce or larger microwave safe mug and stir to mix well
- Stir in the wet ingredients (milk, oil, lemon juice) until just combined. Do not overmix (but make sure to scrape the corners well to avoid unmixed batter)
- Fold in the blueberries and lemon zest
- Microwave on high for 1 minute. If additional time is needed, add it in 15-second increments. Cake is done when the center is set, and springs back when pushed lightly. It may be shiny, but should not be actually wet
- Top with powdered sugar or some additional fresh blueberries if desired, and enjoy!
- Strawberry Chocolate Mug Cake
- Almond Butter Mug Cake
- Apple Mug Cake
Recipe FAQs
Can I Use Frozen Blueberries for a Lemon Blueberry Mug Cake?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. There’s no need to thaw them; just add a few directly into the batter before microwaving.
This will work just as well as fresh blueberries, though you may need to cook it slightly longer to accommodate for excess moisture.
What Type of Mug Should I Use for a Mug Cake?
Use a microwave-safe mug that holds at least 12 ounces to prevent the batter from overflowing as it cooks.
A wider mug will help the cake cook more evenly.
How Long Should I Microwave a Lemon Blueberry Mug Cake?
Microwave the mug cake for 1 to 2 minutes, depending on your microwave’s power. Start with 1 minute and check the cake.
If it’s not fully cooked, continue microwaving in 15-second intervals until done.
Can I Make a Lemon Blueberry Mug Cake Without Eggs?
Yes, you can make a lemon blueberry mug cake without eggs.
The recipe typically doesn’t require eggs due to the small serving size and the leavening provided by the baking powder.
How Do I Prevent My Mug Cake from Becoming Dry?
To prevent dryness, avoid overcooking the mug cake. Microwave just until the cake is set.
Adding a little extra milk or a spoonful of yogurt or sour cream to the batter can also help maintain moisture.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to My Lemon Blueberry Mug Cake?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your mug cake with additional ingredients like white chocolate chips, a drizzle of lemon glaze, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top after cooking.
You can also add a scoop of ice cream and serve it a la mode!
Is Lemon Blueberry Mug Cake Suitable for Vegans?
Yes, it can be made vegan. Substitute the milk with a plant-based milk like almond or soy milk, and use vegan friendly sugar.
Ensure all other ingredients, like baking powder and flour, are also certified as vegan-friendly (in case of cross contamination during production).
How Should I Serve a Lemon Blueberry Mug Cake?
Serve the lemon blueberry mug cake warm, directly from the mug, with a spoon.
For an extra treat, top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest.
Can I Prepare the Mug Cake Batter in Advance?
It’s best to prepare the batter just before microwaving for optimal texture and rise. However, you can mix the dry ingredients ahead of time and store them in the mug.
Then, simply add the wet ingredients when you’re ready to make the cake.
Pro Tips For The Best Blueberry Lemon Mug Cake
- I made my mug cakes in a 1000W microwave and it took 1 minute and 30 seconds total. Your exact time may vary slightly based on the wattage of your microwave
- Your mug cake is cooked when the center is just set. If you depress it gently, it should spring back. It may look wet (shiny) but it should not actually be wet. Overcooking can lead to a rubbery mug cake
- If you want a sweeter cake, you can add up to 2 Tbsp more sugar. It mostly depends how naturally sweet your berries are and how sweet you want your cake overall. As written, it’s a good starting point to work from
Storage and Preparation Tips
- Mug cakes are best enjoyed fresh. However, you can mix your dry ingredients together in advance, and zest and juice your lemons. This saves assembly time when you’re ready to enjoy
- You can store leftover mug cake in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you want to reheat it, microwave for 15-20 seconds until just warm (it will dry out a little as it is, so don’t overdo it)
- Blueberry French 75 Cocktail
Final Thoughts
This lemon blueberry mug cake features zesty citrus and sweet berries in a quick and easy dessert. Sure, it’s not exactly like a regular cake, but you don’t even need to turn on the oven!
Cook your cake up in just 1-2 minutes, and enjoy a sweet treat anytime your sweet tooth strikes. It’s the perfect portion for 1-2 people, and great in the heat of the summer since no baking is required.
I like to serve mine hot with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the top, but it’s great just as-is as well.
Katie’s tip
For another blueberry baked good you’re sure to love, check out my Blueberry Rosemary Scones, made perfectly in the air fryer or oven!
Easy Lemon Blueberry Mug Cake
Ingredients
- 4 Tbsp all purpose flour
- 2 Tbsp brown sugar
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ⅛ tsp salt
- 3 Tbsp milk
- 1 tsp oil (I use olive oil)
- 1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp fresh lemon zest
- ¼ cup fresh blueberries (or more to taste)
Instructions
- Add all dry ingredients to a 12-ounce or larger microwave safe mug and stir to mix well4 Tbsp all purpose flour, 2 Tbsp brown sugar, ½ tsp baking powder, ⅛ tsp salt
- Stir in the wet ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix (but make sure to scrape the corners well to avoid unmixed batter)3 Tbsp milk, 1 tsp oil, 1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Fold in the blueberries and lemon zest1 tsp fresh lemon zest, ¼ cup fresh blueberries
- Microwave on high for 1 minute. If additional time is needed, add it in 15-second increments. Cake is done when the center is set, and springs back when pushed lightly. It may be shiny, but should not be actually wet
- Top with powdered sugar or some additional fresh blueberries if desired, and enjoy!
Notes
- I made my mug cakes in a 1000W microwave and it took 1 minute and 30 seconds total. Your exact time may vary slightly based on the wattage of your microwave
- Your mug cake is cooked when the center is just set. If you depress it gently, it should spring back. It may look wet (shiny) but it should not actually be wet. Overcooking can lead to a rubbery mug cake
- If you want a sweeter cake, you can add up to 2 Tbsp more sugar. It mostly depends how naturally sweet your berries are and how sweet you want your cake overall. As written, it’s a good starting point to work from
- Exact nutritional values will vary based on brand of ingredients, any sauces or toppings added, and actual quantity consumed, so please consider this a guideline only
Nutrition
