Save This S'mores Mug Cake with Sea Salt is pure cozy comfort for when you crave a gooey nostalgic campfire treat but only want to dirty one mug. In under ten minutes you get every layer of s'mores magic — melty chocolate pillowy marshmallow and all the buttered graham flavor — right from your microwave with the tiniest pinch of sea salt to make it extra special.
I made this for the first time on a rainy night and now it is my go to whenever I need a quick chocolate fix after dinner. My partner requests it every time movie night rolls around.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: adds body to the mug cake and is easy to measure
- Crushed graham crackers: bring authentic flavor and a slight crunch
- Granulated sugar: gives balanced sweetness without making it cloying
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: for rich chocolate flavor buy Dutch-process for a stronger taste
- Baking powder: makes the mug cake rise into a fluffy texture
- Pinch of sea salt: heightens flavors and balances sweetness use flaky Maldon if you can
- Whole milk: keeps the batter moist full fat works best
- Neutral oil: like canola ensures tenderness without flavor distractions
- Good quality vanilla extract: rounds out the base with warmth
- Semisweet chocolate chips: melt into puddles use a brand you love for best results
- Mini marshmallows: toast and soften on top for true s'mores gooeyness
Instructions
- Make the Dry Base:
- Add flour crushed graham crackers sugar cocoa powder baking powder and a pinch of sea salt to your favorite large mug. Stir with a fork until no streaks remain. This ensures the cake bakes evenly.
- Add the Liquids:
- Pour in milk oil and vanilla extract. Mix with the fork until the batter is smooth and lump free but do not overmix. Scrape corners well so no dry pockets hide.
- Chocolate Layer:
- Scatter half of your chocolate chips into the batter then press lightly so they are covered. This step makes gooey chocolate in every bite.
- Microwave It:
- Microwave the mug uncovered on high power for 50 to 65 seconds. Check at 50 seconds. The cake should look set on top but slightly molten inside. If needed microwave in additional five to ten second bursts.
- Finish with Marshmallows:
- Sprinkle a thick layer of mini marshmallows and remaining chocolate chips over the warm cake. Microwave again for 10 to 15 seconds just until the marshmallows puff and start to brown. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Top with Sea Salt:
- Let the mug cake cool for a minute. Sprinkle flaky sea salt generously over the marshmallow topping for that signature finish. Grab a spoon and dig in while still warm and gooey.
Save I absolutely love the hit of good flaky sea salt on top. My grandma used to sneak a pinch on her homemade sweets and now it is my secret to taking this mug cake from good to unforgettable. One rainy evening my little cousin and I toasted our marshmallows under the broiler for a few seconds just for fun. He still talks about it.
Storage Tips
Mug cakes are best eaten fresh but if you need to save it let it cool completely then cover tightly and refrigerate for up to one day. Reheat gently in the microwave for ten to fifteen seconds just to re soften the marshmallow and chocolate. Avoid storing longer because the texture becomes dense.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use whole wheat pastry flour for nuttier flavor or gluten free all purpose if needed. Try oat milk for a dairy free version. Swap in dark chocolate chunks for the chips if you want a more bittersweet edge. If you only have jumbo marshmallows cut them into small pieces with kitchen scissors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve straight from the mug or turn it out onto a plate for an oozy dessert bowl experience. Top with an extra scoop of vanilla ice cream if you are feeling decadent. Espresso powder sprinkled on the batter gives an even more pronounced chocolate kick.
Cultural and Historical Context
S’mores were first popularized by Girl Scouts almost a century ago as an easy fireside treat. This mug cake puts all those flavors together but skips the smoke and fuss. It is perfect for city apartments where open flames are a no go.
Seasonal Adaptations
Use peppermint extract in place of vanilla and swirl in crushed candy cane for a wintry twist Add a spoonful of peanut butter on top before microwaving for a summer camp feel Mix in chopped toasted nuts for a warm autumn touch
Save Once you make this S’mores Mug Cake you will crave rainy nights & chocolate forever. Treat yourself & enjoy every gooey spoonful.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I use any mug for making a mug cake?
Choose a microwave-safe mug with a capacity of at least 12 ounces to ensure space for rising and prevent overflow.
- → How does sea salt enhance flavor?
Sea salt enriches sweetness and complexity, adding subtle crunch and balancing the chocolate and marshmallow.
- → What’s the best marshmallow type to use?
Mini marshmallows melt evenly, but regular size marshmallows can be cut for a gooey topping.
- → How long should I microwave a mug cake?
Most mug cakes cook in 1–2 minutes. Monitor closely as microwaves vary in strength and timing.
- → Can I add graham crackers?
Crushed graham crackers sprinkled on top or mixed in add classic texture and taste to your mug cake.
- → How do I know it’s done?
The cake should be set on top and slightly springy to touch; avoid overcooking to keep it moist and gooey.