How to Make the Perfect Salted Caramel Mug Cake
American · Easy · 5 min · 1 servings
This salted caramel mug cake is a dreamy combination of buttery caramel flavor and a flaky sea salt finish, all cooked in the microwave in just minutes. A spoonful of caramel sauce swirled into the center creates a gooey molten-like surprise inside.
Why this recipe works
This Salted Caramel Mug Cake recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 5 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 410 calories with 5g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 tbsp brown sugar
- 3 tbsp whole milk
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tbsp caramel sauce
- 0.25 tsp flaky sea salt
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Mix the Batter
Whisk together flour, brown sugar, milk, and melted butter in a large microwave-safe mug until completely smooth.
Step 2: Add Caramel Center
Pour half the batter into the mug, drop the caramel sauce into the center, then cover with the remaining batter.
Step 3: Microwave the Cake
Microwave on high for 75 to 90 seconds until the cake is set around the edges and just cooked in the center with the caramel still gooey inside.
Step 4: Finish with Sea Salt
Sprinkle the flaky sea salt over the top of the warm cake immediately before serving for the perfect sweet and salty contrast.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- caramel sauce → dulce de leche or butterscotch sauce for a similar effect
- flaky sea salt → regular kosher salt used very sparingly
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Mixing the caramel sauce into the batter instead of keeping it in the center eliminates the molten gooey center effect
- Overcooking the cake causes the caramel center to harden and lose its saucy consistency
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 410 calories, 5g protein, 56g carbs, 19g fat, 0g fiber.
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