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Protein-Packed Gooey Chocolate Lava Mug Cake

protein-packed gooey chocolate lava mug cake - featured image

A quick and easy mug cake recipe that balances indulgence with nutrition, featuring a gooey molten chocolate center and a protein boost.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons (about 20-25g) chocolate-flavored whey or plant-based protein powder
  • 3 tablespoons (about 24g) all-purpose flour (can substitute almond or oat flour for gluten-free)
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-processed preferred)
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 12 tablespoons maple syrup, honey, or preferred sweetener
  • 3 tablespoons (45ml) milk (dairy or dairy-free like almond or oat milk)
  • 1 tablespoon unsweetened Greek yogurt (or coconut yogurt for dairy-free)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or melted coconut oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon dark chocolate piece or chocolate chips
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Lightly grease the inside of a microwave-safe mug with a little oil or non-stick spray.
  2. In a small bowl or directly in the mug, combine protein powder, flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Stir well to break up any lumps.
  3. Add sweetener, milk, Greek yogurt, oil, and vanilla extract if using. Mix thoroughly until the batter is smooth and thick but pourable.
  4. Gently press the dark chocolate piece or chocolate chips into the center of the batter without mixing it in.
  5. Microwave on high for 50-60 seconds. Start with 50 seconds and add 5-10 seconds if needed. The edges should be set and cakey, but the center remains soft and slightly wobbly.
  6. Let the mug cake rest for about 1 minute before eating to allow the molten center to thicken slightly.

Notes

Use a good quality protein powder for best taste and texture. Adjust microwave time based on your appliance to avoid overcooking. For dairy-free, substitute milk and yogurt with plant-based alternatives. Do not skip the chocolate piece for the gooey lava center. Let the cake rest after microwaving to thicken the center.

Nutrition

Keywords: protein mug cake, chocolate lava cake, quick dessert, healthy dessert, microwave cake, protein dessert, gooey chocolate cake