This Chocolate Protein Mug Cake is an indulgent recipe that is also nourishing, made with simple ingredients. By using protein powder, banana and egg, this mug cake will fuel your body and satisfy your sweet tooth. Each bite is filled with a delicious chocolate flavor and a subtle banana flavor.

Eating Chocolate Protein Mug Cake toped with banana slices and dark chocolate tahini.

This is a recipe that you can make for a filling breakfast or for nutritious dessert! One of the best parts about this recipe is that the entire recipe has 25 grams of protein.

It’s a single-serving recipe that is indulgent and easy-to-make in just one bowl. And did I mention that it can be ready in as quick as 5 minutes if using the microwave?!

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

  • Chocolate Protein Powder – You can use any protein powder that you prefer. However, I have made this with both vegan and whey protein. I recommend using vegan protein powder when baking because whey can dry out the cake texture.
  • Egg – Use a large egg for this recipe, however, extra large will work if that’s what you have on hand.
  • Banana – A medium sized banana is the perfect amount for this recipe. I use 3/4 of the banana in the batter then slice the rest for a topping. Make sure to mash it up well so that there aren’t massive clumps in the batter.
  • Unsweetened Cacao Powder – I typically use an Unsweetened 100% Cocoa Powder, such as the brand linked.
  • Vanilla Extract – You can use any brand preference of vanilla extract that you like.
  • Baking Soda – This can be found at your local store and can be any brand.
  • Baking Powder – This can be found at your local store and can be any brand.
Ingredients measured out in bowls to make the protein mug cake.

Why You’ll Love this Chocolate Protein Mug Cake

There are quite a few reasons to make this recipe. However, I will go through the top 3 reasons!

  • Single-serving: This recipe makes a single-serving which is great for easy cleanup (no storing leftovers) and less temptation of having cake around the house.
  • High in protein: Many mornings I will crave something sweet for breakfast. However, I also want to keep it nutritious. This mug cake has the perfect balance of satisfying my sweet cravings while also enjoying a nutritious breakfast.
  • Easy-to-make: You only need one bowl, a whisk and the ingredients to make this recipe. It is simple and can be done quickly if you’re tight on time.

Things to Know Before You Make This Recipe

  • Protein Powder: the type of protein powder you use will impact the final result of the mug cake. A vegan protein powder will mix more seamlessly and create a softer, more “cake-like” texture than a whey-based protein powder. However, a whey protein powder will still work and be delicious.
  • Banana: A very ripe banana is ideal for this recipe in both flavor and texture. The more ripe, the sweeter the banana. It is also easier to mash and mix with the other ingredients. The banana contributes to both the flavor and texture of the mug cake.
  • Mixing: You can use a whisk or even a fork for this recipe. There shouldn’t be any big clumps, however, there will be some with the mashed banana.
  • Mug-size: Make sure you are using a mug or bowl that is large enough to not only hold the cake batter but to expand as it bakes. I use a 14 oz mug that is oven and microwave safe.
  • Baking: Don’t over-bake the mug cake as that will cause it to become dry. Whether you’re baking in the oven or microwave, it’s better to check more constantly than have a dry cake.

How to Make Chocolate Protein Mug Cake with Egg

The full-detailed instructions are written out in the recipe card below. Use these images to help guide you as needed when following the directions.

  1. Start by combining the wet ingredients before adding in the dry
  2. Mix until combined then transfer to the prepared bowl
  3. Bake in oven or use the microwave as instructed below
  4. Top with extra chocolate or other toppings and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this on a bigger scale?

Yes! you can make as many servings as you want by multiplying the measured ingredients based off of how much you want to make.

I also have this Small Batch Chocolate Cake Recipe that uses a few similar ingredients but is definitely more of an indulgent dessert. This recipe is a larger version, made in a loaf pan.

What toppings should I add to the cake?

You can add any toppings/ingredients that you’d like. This recipe is adaptable to your flavor preferences. Some suggested toppings are banana slices, fresh fruit, chocolate chips, peanut butter or a honey drizzle. The limit doesn’t exist!

Is this recipe vegan friendly?

You can make this recipe vegan friendly by using a vegan protein powder. The only other thing you’ll need to do is use a flax egg instead of a regular egg.

A flax egg is 1 tbsp of ground flax seed mixed with 2 tbsp of water. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes before adding into the batter. This will allow the mixture to thicken and act as an egg!

Can I make this recipe ahead of time and eat later?

Yes! I suggest making this no sooner than the night before you plan to eat it but it is best when eaten fresh!

Chocolate Protein Mug Cake topped with a piece of chocolate.
Chocolate Protein Mug Cake topped with a piece of chocolate.
5 stars (7 ratings)

Chocolate Protein Mug Cake with Egg Recipe

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 1 serving
This Chocolate Protein Mug Cake is an indulgent recipe that is also nourishing, made with simple ingredients. By using protein powder, banana and egg, this mug cake will fuel your body and satisfy your sweet tooth. Each bite is filled with a delicious chocolate flavor and a subtle banana flavor.

Ingredients
 

  • 1 banana, 3/4 mashed, remaining sliced for topping
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp maple syrup
  • 1 serving chocolate protein powder, vegan preferred
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tbsp unsweetened cacao powder

Equipment

  • 1 large and oven-safe ramekin / mug / bowl

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (Skip this if using the microwave method)
  • Mash the banana and whisk in the egg
  • Add in the maple syrup and vanilla extract
  • Fold in the chocolate protein powder, baking soda, baking powder and cocoa powder
  • Mix until fully combined
  • Spray your large ramekin/oven safe dish with coconut oil spray
  • Pour the batter into the dish
  • Bake in the oven for 18-22 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean. Or if using the microwave, start at 60 seconds then add an additional 10 seconds until baked. (It shouldn't have that wet, glossy look and should feel springy yet firm to the touch).
  • Let cool for 5-10 minutes
  • Top with chocolate chips, banana slices, fresh fruit, tahini, nut butter and anything else your heart desires.
  • Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 308kcal, Carbohydrates: 43g, Protein: 25g, Fat: 7g, Saturated Fat: 3g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g, Monounsaturated Fat: 2g, Trans Fat: 0.02g, Cholesterol: 199mg, Sodium: 948mg, Potassium: 811mg, Fiber: 9g, Sugar: 20g, Vitamin A: 313IU, Vitamin C: 10mg, Calcium: 365mg, Iron: 2mg
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Keywords: banana breakfast recipe, banana mug cake, chocolate mug cake, flourless, gluten-free baking, high protein dessert, high-protein breakfast, mug cake, vegan protein powder