When Spring finally rolls around, I ditch the heavier flavors of the fall and winter and instead opt for something fresh and bright. That’s where this easy lemon mug cake recipe shines! In just a few minutes, you have a zesty cake for one that’s bursting with fresh lemon flavor.
Mug cakes are one of my favorite options for quick desserts. All you need is a mug, a microwave, and a few minutes to throw everything together – just stir, cook, and enjoy! This microwave lemon cake is super moist and sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!
This lemon mug cake uses lemon zest and fresh lemon juice for a vibrant, tart flavor that’s perfect for Spring and Easter. I like to top mine with a lemon icing as well, but frosting works great (as well as just enjoying it as is).
If you aren’t having company, mug cakes are a perfect option so you don’t need to make an entire large cake for just 1-2 people. However, you can totally make a bunch of mug cakes in different flavors even if you are entertaining, so people can pick their favorites!
For a fruity variation on this recipe, make sure to also check out my Lemon Blueberry Mug Cake!
Ingredients List
¼ cup all purpose flour
3 Tbsp granulated sugar
½ tsp baking powder
⅛ tsp salt
3 Tbsp milk
1 Tbsp oil (or melted butter)
1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp fresh lemon zest
For the Lemon Glaze (optional)
2 Tbsp powdered confectioner’s sugar
½ tsp fresh lemon juice
Ingredient Tips and Substitutions
You can substitute non-dairy milk, such as almond milk, instead of the regular milkif needed
The sugar may be swapped for brown sugar, or a natural sweetener like maple syrup if preferred
If you don’t have fresh lemon juice available, ½ tsp of lemon extract may be used instead (and add an extra tsp of milk to compensate for the moisture)
Step By Step Instructions
To a microwave safe mug, add all dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt) and mix well
Add in the wet ingredients (milk, oil, lemon juice, and lemon zest) and stir until just incorporated (do not overmix)
Place the mug into your microwave and cook on high for 1 minute. If additional time is needed, use 15-second increments until the center is just set. Tip: the top may appear shiny, but should not be actually wet, and should spring back when lightly pushed
Allow your cake to cook for a minute while you mix the powdered sugar and lemon juice in a small bowl
A lemon mug cake is a single-serving cake that can be quickly and easily prepared in a mug using a microwave.
It features a light and fluffy texture with a refreshing lemon flavor, perfect for satisfying dessert cravings in a pinch.
How Do You Make a Lemon Mug Cake?
To make a lemon mug cake, simply combine flour, sugar, baking powder, lemon zest, milk, oil, and lemon juice in a microwave-safe mug. Mix until smooth, then microwave on high for 1-2 minutes until the cake is cooked through.
Allow it to cool slightly before enjoying.
Can I Adjust the Ingredients in a Lemon Mug Cake?
Yes, you can customize the ingredients in a lemon mug cake to suit your preferences. For example, you can adjust the amount of sugar for a sweeter or less sweet cake, add more lemon zest for extra citrus flavor, or incorporate other add-ins like poppy seeds or blueberries.
Try not to adjust the proportions of the base recipe too drastically, or you can end up with a tough or dry cake as a result.
How Long Does It Take to Cook a Lemon Mug Cake?
Cooking times may vary depending on the wattage of your microwave, but typically, a lemon mug cake can be cooked in 1-2 minutes on high power.
Keep an eye on the cake as it cooks to avoid overcooking, as microwave cooking times can differ.
Can I Make a Lemon Mug Cake Ahead of Time?
Mug cakes are best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the dry ingredients in advance and store them in individual portions in airtight containers.
When ready to enjoy, simply add the wet ingredients, mix, and microwave as usual.
What Can I Serve with a Lemon Mug Cake?
Lemon mug cake pairs well with a variety of toppings and accompaniments. You can serve it plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar, a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of lemon glaze, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.
You can also use lemon frosting (homemade or premade in a can) to cover your single serving cake in a cup.
Can I Make a Lemon Mug Cake Vegan or Gluten Free?
Yes, you can adapt a lemon mug cake recipe to be vegan or gluten free. Substitute dairy-free milk and use certified vegan ingredients to make a vegan version.
Swap in gluten-free all purpose flour or almond flour in place of the regular all purpose flour. Be sure to check that all ingredients are suitable for your dietary needs.
Recipe Pro Tips
If you have extra lemon zest, feel free to add some to the icing as well for extra lemon flavor and visual appeal
My mug cake was cooked in a 1000W microwave and took 1 minute 30 seconds total. Other wattages may vary slightly, so adjust as needed
This lemon mug cake comes out incredibly moist, nearing a cake pop consistency if you smash it hard enough. Thankfully, it has no egg, so enjoy! However, you can always overcook it a little if you prefer a drier cake
Storage Tips
While mug cakes are best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for 1-2 days
If you want to reheat your lemon cake, microwave for 15-20 seconds until warmed (not too long, though, or it will dry out)
This easy lemon mug cake takes only about 5 minutes to make thanks to your microwave! It’s incredibly moist, bursting with lemon flavor, and perfect for satisfying that sweet tooth.
Lemon always makes me think of Spring, but this dessert is also great for Summer (or any time you want it honestly). Mug cakes are the perfect single serving, but also look great on your brunch spread or for guests. Make a bunch of flavors and let people choose their favorites!
Cake in a cup is super easy to enjoy (it’s portable!) and it’s a great alternative to having to make an entire cake if you’re not feeding a crowd. Grab a glass of my Brazilian Lemonade (With Vodka) to go with it, and enjoy!
Easy Microwave Lemon Mug Cake (No Egg)
This easy microwave lemon mug cake is bright, moist, and delicious! It takes only about 5 minutes to make, and that’s with cooking included!
Place the mug into your microwave and cook on high for 1 minute. If additional time is needed, use 15-second increments until the center is just set. Tip: the top may appear shiny, but should not be actually wet, and should spring back when lightly pushed
Allow your cake to cook for a minute while you mix the powdered sugar and lemon juice in a small bowl
2 Tbsp powdered confectioner's sugar, ½ Tsp lemon juice
Drizzle the glaze over the cake, and enjoy!
Notes
You can substitute non-dairy milk, such as almond milk, instead of the regular milk
The sugar may be swapped for brown sugar if preferred (you can also use as little as 2 Tbsp if you prefer a more tart cake)
If you don’t have fresh lemon juice available, ½ tsp of lemon extract may be used instead (and add an extra tsp of milk to compensate for the moisture)
If you have extra lemon zest, feel free to add some to the icing as well for extra lemon flavor and visual appeal
My mug cake was cooked in a 1000W microwave and took 1 minute 30 seconds total. Other wattages may vary slightly, so adjust as needed
This lemon mug cake comes out incredibly moist, nearing a cake pop consistency if you smash it hard enough. Thankfully, it has no egg, so enjoy! However, you can always overcook it a little if you prefer a drier cake
While mug cakes are best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for 1-2 days
If you want to reheat your lemon cake, microwave for 15-20 seconds until warmed (not too long, though, or it will dry out)
Exact nutritional values will vary based on brand and flavor of ingredients, any sauces or sides added, and quantity consumed, so please consider this a guideline only
I enjoy trying new recipes, creating my own, and dabbling with new techniques all the time. My husband loves to protest when I make him my guinea pig, but it’s all for the love of food!
My cooking philosophy is that great tasting food doesn't have to be complicated or time consuming to make. I'm a home cook with over 20 years of experience feeding myself and others. I've learned from a variety of different people, things I've learned online, and some trial and error as well.
I enjoy cooking a variety of foods, from convenience to comfort foods, as well as international cuisine. You can rest assured that all of my recipes have been actually made, thoroughly tested, and most importantly: tasted! I want you to enjoy my food as much as I do!
