My chocolate chip cookie in a mug for one is an easy microwave recipe that satisfies the urge for a warm cookie in a jiffy.
This instant cookie in a mug solves the dilemma we’ve all faced: 1. You want a cookie. 2. There are no cookies 3. If you make or buy cookies you’ll eat them all.
My cookie in a mug doesn’t just solve this problem ~ it’s one of the best little desserts I’ve ever had! I love anything that features chocolate chips. I love soft and moist spoon-able cakes and blondies (in fact I’ll sometimes undercook them just to get this texture.)
But hey, are you looking for a chewy crunchy mug cookie? This recipe can do that too (it’s all in the details.)
I’m a fanatic about single serve recipes that can be made in the microwave. Ever since my original Instant Microwave Macaroni and Cheese I’ve been smitten with the idea. I went on to make 3-Minute Microwave Jam with a handful of summer berries, and Easy Microwave Potato Chips, and that was only the beginning!
related: Microwave Protein Pancake Bowls
What you need to make a cookie in a mug
- salted butter
- granulated sugar
- brown sugar
- brown sugar adds flavor and moisture to the mug cookie.
- vanilla extract
- milk, half & half, or egg yolk
- half and half is a dairy product made from equal parts whole milk and light cream. Why all the choices? The milk vs egg will produce different results, I’ll explain below.
- all-purpose flour
- chocolate chunks or chips
- any type, semi sweet, bittersweet, or milk chocolate. I love the effect of chocolate chunks in this mug cookie.
- chopped nuts
- optional but I love the flavor and crunch, plus they give extra bulk to the cookie.
You’ll also need a 10-12 ounce microwave safe mug ~ generally ceramic and glass mugs are good choices.
Wonder how to tell if a mug is microwave safe?
Look at the bottom of the mug for any labels or symbols indicating it is microwave-safe like wavy lines or a microwave icon. Otherwise you can fill the mug half way with water and microwave for a minute. If the mug itself gets very hot, it probably isn’t safe to use for this cookie in a mug recipe. I bought my mugs on Amazon.
cookie in a mug, step by step
- Melt the butter.
- Add the rest of the ingredients and stir well.
- Microwave for one minute.
- Enjoy asap! (Although be careful, the chocolate chips will be especially hot!)
Microwave mug cookies are intended to be enjoyed right away, so plan to nuke it when you’re ready to eat. Prefer to bake your cookie for one? See my Single Cookie For One!
how it works
Microwaves cook food much faster because they directly heat the water molecules inside the food, causing super fast heating from the outside in. In contrast, traditional ovens heat the air around the food, which then gradually transfers heat to the food’s surface and interior, resulting in slower more even overall cooking.
For small amounts of food like our cookie in a mug the microwave can be a super efficient way to cook.
what to expect from your microwave cookie in a mug
- If you use Half & Half or milk:
- you will get a soft plush cookie in a mug, spoonable and incredibly delicious. Think warm cookie, right out of the oven (like Crumbl!) This is my preference.
- If you use egg yolk:
- your cookie will have more texture and crunch to it. Still spoon-able, but definitely a crunch factor. I’m not promising you’ll get a Thin and Crispy Chocolate Chip Cookie from your microwave, but it definitely gives cookie vibes rather than soft blondie.
the perks of a microwave cookie
It’s quick: just 60 seconds, and you don’t need to preheat your oven!
It’s single serve: nothing to tempt you to eat more than you should.
It’s warm: whether you go with egg yolk or milk you get an irresistibly warm cookie.
It’s spoonable: eating a cookie with a spoon? The best!
cookie in a mug faqs
Can I make an olive oil cookie in a mug?
- Yes, you can substitute olive oil or other vegetable oil, but the cookie will have a slightly different texture and flavor.
Can I use the whole egg instead of just the yolk?
- No, using the whole egg will make the cookie too spongy. The yolk provides the right amount of moisture and richness.
What about chocolate chunks instead of chips?
- Yes, sure.
I can’t eat nuts, what can I use instead?
- Try sunflower seeds or leave them out.
Can I make this gluten-free?
- Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute.
How can I make a vegan cookie in a mug?
- Use oil in place of butter and plant based milk. Make sure your chocolate chips are vegan.
My cookie turned out dry. What happened?
- It was likely overcooked. Even an extra second or two in the microwave can mean the difference between perfect and over cooked. Microwaves can vary, so start with less time and add more if needed. Once you get the right timing, note it down for the future. (Did you know you can now make personal notes right in the recipe card, below? Check it out!)
How do I know when my cookie is done?
- when fully cooked the cookie should look set and not shiny, but still slightly soft in the center. The center will continue to cook slightly as it cools.
Do I have to use a 10-12 ounce mug?
- You need a mug this size (or larger) to insure that the cookie will cook correctly and won’t overflow in the microwave.
Can I prep my cookie in a mug ahead?
- Yes, you can mix the dry ingredients in advance and pop it in the fridge. Another idea: create your own “instant microwave cookie in a mug” dry mix, and just add butter and milk when you want to bake.
more microwave recipes
- Easy Microwave Potato Chips Recipe
- 5 Outrageously Delicious Foods You Can Make in Your Microwave
- How to Dry Herbs in the Microwave
- 3-Minute Microwave Jam
- How to Make Homemade Magic Shell
- Easy Microwave Fudge
Microwave Cookie in a Mug
Equipment
- 10-12 ounce microwave safe mug
- tablespoon measure
Ingredients
Note: measure ingredients exactly
- 1 Tbsp salted butter
- 1 Tbsp white sugar
- 1 Tbsp brown sugar
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 Tbsp milk, half & half, or one egg yolk*
- 3 Tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 Tbsp chocolate chips
- 2 Tbsp chopped nuts , optional
Instructions
- Put the butter into your mug and melt it in the microwave. This will take about 20-30 seconds depending on how cold your butter is. It's fine if the butter is not 100% melted.
- Add the rest of the ingredients and stir well to combine.
- Microwave for one minute. When fully cooked the cookie should look set and not shiny, but still slightly soft in the center. The center will continue to cook slightly as it cools. You may need to adjust the exact time for your specific mug and microwave, so it may take an experiment cookie or two to get it right.
- Once you've determined the exact time for you, note it in the personal notes section, below.
- Plan to enjoy your cookie in a mug right away, it will not keep or reheat well.
Notes
-
- If you use milk or Half & Half:
-
- you will get a soft plush cookie in a mug, spoonable and incrediblly delicious. Think warm cookie, right out of the oven (like Crumbl!)
-
- If you use milk or Half & Half:
-
- If you use egg yolk:
-
- your cookie will have more texture and crunch to it. Still spoon-able, but definitely a crunch factor. I’m not promising you’ll get a Thin and Crispy Chocolate Chip Cookie from your microwave, but it definitely gives cookie vibes rather than soft blondie.
-
- If you use egg yolk:
This was such a novelty–I was eager to try it. It was as good as advertised, but it needed a pinch of salt. Cooked perfectly in one minute. I appreciated the explanation of the difference between using milk vs. egg yolk.
You can never have too much salt when it comes to chocolate chip cookies! Glad you enjoyed it Mary!
Sooo good. I even substituted with gluten free flour.
It’s a good type of recipe for gf converting, glad you loved it!
Mmmm!
This sounds so delicious! But I got rid of my microwave years ago and don’t want another one. I would have to bake it in an oven the old-fashioned way.
Yes, I link to my baked cookie for one in the post, here it is..
Yes I have that one. You have the best tecipes for everything. Oh, and Iโve been living off your salad recipes all summer especially the tortellini salad. OMG delicious and healthy! You are the best!
Thanks for making my weekend ๐