Description
A single-serving, microwave-ready delight — this Lemon Lava Mug Cake with Condensed Milk is tangy, tender, and loaded with a molten, sweet centre. Ready in under 6 minutes, it’s the perfect quick treat for one: bright lemon flavour, a soft cake crumb, and a gooey condensed-milk “lava” that spills out with every spoonful. Ideal for last-minute cravings, small kitchens, or whenever you need a citrusy pick-me-up. Tip: use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best brightness!
Ingredients
4 tbsp self-raising flour
2 tbsp sugar
1/4 tsp lemon zest (or more for stronger flavour)
3 tbsp milk
1 tbsp lemon juice (fresh)
1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 tbsp sweetened condensed milk (for lava centre)
Optional toppings:
Icing sugar
Extra lemon zest
Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
Instructions
1. In a microwave-safe mug, whisk together 4 tbsp self-raising flour, 2 tbsp sugar, and 1/4 tsp lemon zest.
2. Add 3 tbsp milk, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp melted unsalted butter (cooled slightly), and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; stir until smooth.
3. Spoon 1 1/2 tbsp sweetened condensed milk into the center of the batter — do not stir; this will be your lava core.
4. Microwave on high for 60–90 seconds (start checking at 60s). The top should be set but still soft; avoid overcooking.
5. Let the mug cake rest for 30 seconds, then dust with icing sugar, extra lemon zest, and serve with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired.
Notes
Microwave power varies — start at 60 seconds and add 10–15 second bursts if needed.
If you don’t have self-raising flour, use 4 tbsp all-purpose flour + 1/4 tsp baking powder.
For a different centre, swap condensed milk for lemon curd or softened white chocolate.
Best enjoyed immediately; the molten centre firms up as it cools.
To make this dairy-free, use plant-based milk, dairy-free butter, and a vegan condensed milk substitute.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 1–1.5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Microwave
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mug cake
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 27g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 35mg