Funfetti Mug Cake

Our 4-ingredient funfetti mug cake is the perfect solution to those sweet cravings! This quick and easy recipe brings all the festive fun of sprinkles to a perfectly portioned, microwavable treat. Ready in just minutes, it’s the ultimate go-to for instant dessert gratification. Treat yourself to a delightful funfetti mug cake anytime you need a sweet pick-me-up!

Want more funfetti in your life? I’ve got the perfect recipes for you to try! Check out my Funfetti Cupcakes, Birthday Cake Cookies, and Birthday Pancakes!

Top down image showing a white cake with frosting inside a mug with a bite being pulled out with a fork.


 

Why You’ll Love This Funfetti Mug Cake

  • Quick and Easy: It takes just a few minutes to prepare and cook, making it perfect for satisfying a sudden sweet tooth.
  • Minimal Ingredients: With only four ingredients, it’s simple and convenient, requiring minimal effort and shopping.
  • No Baking Skills Needed: Even if you’re not a seasoned baker, this recipe is straightforward and foolproof.

Need a quick sweet fix that has the best birthday vibes? This super simple mug cake checks all of the boxes. It’s quick, easy, and full of that classic Funfetti flavor.

Imagine biting into a fluffy cloud that’s been showered with a confetti of rainbow sprinkles. That’s what funfetti cake tastes like—a soft, moist, and buttery vanilla cake bursting with sweet, colorful surprises in every bite. The sprinkles melt into pockets of sugary delight, creating a playful texture that’s as joyous as a birthday party. Each mouthful is a celebration, blending the rich taste of classic cake with the whimsical crunch of sprinkles.

top down image showing a white serving tray with a small glass bowl of cake mix with a measuring spoon inside and two smaller dishes with water and oil. There are colorful sprinkles all around the dishes

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • Cake Mix: Pick your favorite brand for this cake mix mug cake. I will mention that we did not test this with gluten free options or keto, so I cannot be sure if those will work well.
  • Water: Water is essential in cake mixes as it hydrates the dry ingredients, activates gluten and leavening agents for structure and rise, and helps achieve the right batter consistency. We did test this with milk but it didn’t produce the same light and moist texture.
  • Oil: Add testing this mug cake with both oil and butter to our list. We tried them both and were shocked when oil won out in the blind taste test. The cakes made with oil were lighter and had a more enjoyable texture.
  • Sprinkles: When it comes to sprinkles, I recommend using Jimmies. They are the longer colorful variety vs the small bead type. They won’t bleed the color out into the cake.
Top down image showing a white mug filled with cake mix sitting on a white serving tray that has sprinkles spilled on it
Top down image showing a white mug filled with cake mix and water sitting on a white serving tray that has sprinkles spilled on it
Top down image showing a white mug filled with cake mix with a measuring spoon of oil on top sitting on a white serving tray that has sprinkles spilled on it

How To Make A Cake Mix Mug Cake

Ready to get rolling? Here’s the broken down step by step to make your first mug cake!

  1. Prepare the Mug: Lightly spray the inside of a microwave safe 12-ounce mug with baking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix Ingredients: Pour the cake mix, water, and oil into the mug. Use a fork to stir everything together until well combined. Add the sprinkles and give just a light mix.
  3. Microwave the Cake: Cook in the microwave for about 1 minute and 15 seconds. Check if the cake is done—it should look set and dry on top. Note: Cooking time can vary based on your microwave’s power, so it might need slightly less or more time.
  4. Cool and Enjoy: After microwaving, let the cake stand in the mug for one minute to cool slightly. Then it’s ready to enjoy!

Helpful Tools

Here are some helpful tools for making a 4-ingredient funfetti mug cake:

  • Measuring Spoons: (affiliate) Accurate measurements are key to baking success, even with something as simple as a mug cake.
  • Baking Spray: (affiliate) To prevent sticking, a good non-stick cooking spray is useful. Alternatively, a little butter or oil rubbed inside the mug can also do the trick.
  • Toppings and Add-ins: Have some fun toppings or mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, whipped cream, or fruit ready to enhance your mug cake.
top down image showing a white mug with cake mix and a fork inside
top down image showing a white mug with cake mix and a fork inside with a pile of sprinkles on top
top down image showing a white mug with cake mix and a fork inside

Expert Recipe Tips

Mug cakes are so simple to make but there are a few tips to make these turn out perfect every single time!

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder is fresh for the cake to rise properly.
  • Mix Thoroughly: Whisk the ingredients well to avoid any lumps and ensure a smooth batter.
  • Microwave Power: Cooking times may vary depending on your microwave’s wattage. Start with 1 minute and check, adding 10-15 seconds if needed.
  • Watch Closely: Keep an eye on the cake as it cooks to prevent overbaking, which can lead to a dry texture.
  • Rest After Cooking: Let the cake sit for a minute or two after microwaving to finish cooking and set properly.
close up image of a mug filled with cake that has colorful sprinkles throughout

Recipe FAQs

Can I use any type of cake mix for a mug cake?

Yes, you can use any flavor of cake mix. Just follow the same basic proportions and instructions.

How can I tell if the mug cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is done. The top should also be firm to the touch.

Why did my mug cake turn out dry?

Overcooking can cause dryness. Adjust the microwave time and try reducing it by 10-15 seconds if the cake is too dry.

How do I store leftover mug cake?

Mug cakes are best enjoyed fresh, but you can cover and refrigerate leftovers for up to 1 day. Reheat gently in the microwave before eating.

What size mug should I use?

A 12 to 15-ounce microwave-safe mug is ideal. It allows enough space for the cake to rise without spilling over.

close up image of a mug filled with cake that has colorful sprinkles throughout and a swirl of vanilla frosting with sprinkles on top

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Single Serve Mug Cake

Author Jesseca
Prep: 5 minutes
Cook: 2 minutes
Our 4-ingredient funfetti mug cake is the perfect solution to those sweet cravings! This quick and easy recipe brings all the festive fun of sprinkles to a perfectly portioned, microwavable treat. Ready in just minutes, it’s the ultimate go-to for instant dessert gratification. 

Ingredients
  

  • 6 tablespoons white cake mix dry
  • 3 tablespoons water
  • 1 tablespoon oil we like canola oil
  • 1 tablespoon sprinkles

Instructions
 

  • Lightly spray the inside of a microwave safe 12-ounce mug with baking spray to prevent sticking.
  • Pour the cake mix, water, and oil into the mug. Use a fork to stir everything together until well combined. Add the sprinkles and give just a light mix.
  • Cook in the microwave for about 1 minute and 15 seconds. Check if the cake is done—it should look set and dry on top. Note: Cooking time can vary based on your microwave’s power, so it might need slightly less or more time.
  • After microwaving, let the cake stand in the mug for one minute to cool slightly. Then it’s ready to enjoy!

Notes

Each microwave will be different due to the different wattages. They range from 600 to 1200 which means your microwave could take a little longer or cook quicker. My microwave is 950 watts and it takes me 1 minute and 45 seconds to cook this cake.

The nutrition facts provided are calculated using a third-party tool and are estimates only. Actual nutritional content may vary based on the ingredients and brands you use, as well as portion sizes. For accurate results, please consult a registered dietitian or nutritionist.

Course Dessert
Cuisine American
close up image of a mug filled with cake that has colorful sprinkles throughout and a swirl of vanilla frosting with sprinkles on top. A fork is pulling out a bite and there is text overlay reading "3 ingredient funfetti mug cake

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