A protein-packed snack that’s ready in just 2 minutes? Yes please! This 3 ingredient protein mug cake can be whipped up and flavored in a variety of ways but the end result is always a moist cake that curbs a craving.
Mug cake recipes are a staple for me as a Certified Nutrition Coach because I truly believe it’s better to indulge the craving with a healthier swap than try to outrun it. And this 3 ingredient mug cake is a great way to do that.
Not only is it easy to whip up, just like these 3 ingredient protein balls, but you can make the mug cake into whatever kind of craving you have that day.
Use this high protein recipe as a quick afternoon snack or a healthy dessert, either way, it’s a great way to increase your protein intake.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Easy: You only need three main ingredients and 2 minutes, it doesn’t get simpler than that.
Healthy: The mug cake is naturally dairy-free and gluten-free but can be made paleo with a quick swap.
Indulgent: You can make this recipe as indulgent as you need it to be with a few simple swaps.
Ingredients and Substitutions
Below are the three ingredients you need for the protein mug cake to come together.
Know that you can easily make it banana-free by swapping the banana with a dairy-free Greek Yogurt. If your yogurt isn’t sweet though, you’ll want to add in some maple syrup or sweetener to the mug. This will also amp up the protein in the mug cake to 30 grams.
Make it paleo: You can make this protein mug cake paleo by using a paleo-approved protein powder or swapping the protein powder for collagen powder. If you swap it out, know that the texture will be gooier and may require some more cooking time.
Expert Tips To Make It
Make sure to use a microwave-safe mug. The size of the mug will alter the cooking time so keep an eye on it in the last 30 seconds. A larger mug with a wider opening is better, or even a white ramekin.
It is HOT coming out of the microwave, give it a minute or two to cool down before you dive in and burn your tongue.
The protein powder you choose can and will alter the flavor and taste of the 3 ingredient mug cake. Learn more about how to choose a protein powder and know that this recipe was made with Botanica Protein which means Orgain would also work. Both are great ways to eat 100 grams of protein and still enjoy food.
How To Make..
Step 1: In a small bowl, mash the banana and whisk in the egg.
Step 2: Add the protein powder and mix until smooth.
Step 3: Pour into a mug or ramekin, top with chocolate chips (if using).
Step 3: Microwave for 2 minutes and let it cool before eating.
Flavor Variations
As I said, the 3 ingredient protein mug cake recipe is a great base. However, you can alter or add on any of the flavors below to switch it up.
Chocolate: Add a teaspoon of cacao powder to the batter or swirl in some chocolate chips. Learn more about raw cacao powder.
Toppings: Drizzle on some peanut butter, top it with whole30 whipped cream, or even a dollop of dairy-free Greek yogurt for extra moisture and indulgence.
Drizzle: Dairy-free caramel sauce or chocolate ganache makes the mug cake much more indulgent.
Sprinkles or chopped nuts: Add a bit of texture to the recipe with some festive sprinkles or chopped pecans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Mug cakes are typically best when eaten immediately after cooking. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for 2 days. When you want to enjoy it, reheat it lightly until just warmed. Know that once stored the texture changes and the cake is more rubbery though.
Yes! Little ramekins are the perfect size for mug cakes and they tend to cook more evenly in them.
Though it will probably work, I haven’t tried. Vegan protein powder replaces the flour in this recipe which bulks it up. Whey protein may not do that and result in a different texture.
More High Protein Mug Cake Recipes
- Carrot cake mug cake
- Apple mug cake without eggs
- Chocolate protein powder mug cake
- Chocolate chip mug cake
- Funfetti mug cake
- Vegan mug brownie
- Pumpkin protein mug cake
Fast, crave-worthy snacks that hit your protein goals (without tracking or extra cooking time).
3 Ingredient Protein Mug Cake
Video
Equipment
Ingredients
- ½ Banana mashed
- 1 Egg
- ¼ cup Vegan Protein powder
Instructions
- Mash the banana and whisk it together with the egg in a small bowl.
- Stir in the protein powder and mix until completely combined (no dry spots).
- Portion into a mug or small ramekin and top with any toppings.
- Microwave for 2 minutes and let cool a full minute before enjoying.
Notes
Disclaimer:
Nutrition values are estimates only, using online calculators. Please verify using your own data"
Kristy
My family loved this!