Protein Mug Cake does double duty: delicious chocolate and a protein boost!

I saw a meme recently that read: “Just had to quit my job so I would have enough time to make sure I was eating enough protein.” I laughed but also sighed because it’s true. Everything I hear about weight loss, maintaining muscle and bone health, and staving off aging seems to be linked to protein. And as a carb-oholic, it’s sometimes exhausting trying to get all the protein in!
That’s why I love protein mug cake. It ticks all the boxes: easy to make, quick, chocolatey, and full of protein—of course, it depends on which protein powder you use, but around 29 grams!
You will love protein mug cake, too. It’s easy to make for a quick but satisfying breakfast or snack. It’s so easy that your older kids or teens can make it—I have two active teen boys, and they love making this cake as a post-workout snack! It makes one serving but is easily converted to cake for two, as long as you have two mugs handy. Finally, the flavors and extras are customizable: choose your favorite chocolate chips, nuts, or fruit (I love raspberries on top of it) and make it your own.

Choosing a protein powder
Maybe you already have a favorite protein powder that you like to use in smoothies or baked goods. If not, there are a few things to consider. First, always look at the label—you want the “cleanest” protein powder you can find, without any artificial additives or long ingredient lists. Secondly, it depends on whether you want a plant-based one or not. For plant-based, I have found that pea-based powders work really well; otherwise, look for a whey protein concentrate powder to use.

How do I store leftovers?
Like most mug cakes, protein mug cake is best enjoyed fresh while it’s still warm. That said, any leftovers can be stored at room temperature for up to 1 day.

Serving suggestions
The toppings are where you can really make protein mug cake your own. Toasted walnuts, hazelnuts, or almonds are delicious and add a bit more protein. Chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, or fresh berries are also delicious. Other variations include adding a swirl of (unsweetened) peanut butter on top or some sliced banana.
For more mug cake recipes, take a look at Snickerdoodle Mug Cake, Nutella Mug Cake, or Oreo Mug Cake.

Protein Mug Cake
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons oat flour
- 2 tablespoons protein powder chocolate or vanilla
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon granulated sweetener e.g. coconut sugar
- 3 tablespoons milk any variety
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 tablespoon chocolate chips optional
Instructions
- In a large microwave-safe mug, combine oat flour, protein powder, cocoa powder, baking powder, and sweetener.

- Pour in the milk and melted butter; stir until the mixture is smooth. If it seems too thick, add another splash of milk. If using, sprinkle chocolate chips on top.

- Microwave on high for 60 to 90 seconds. Start checking at 60 seconds and continue every 10 seconds until the cake is cooked through.

- Serve warm with preferred toppings.


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