Peanut Butter Mug Cake

Peanut Butter Mug Cake: A Healthy, Low-Point Delight

Mug cakes have taken the dessert world by storm, offering a quick and easy way to satisfy your sweet tooth without the fuss of baking a whole cake. This Peanut Butter Mug Cake is not only delicious but can also be made to fit within your Weight Watchers (WW) plan, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Below, we will explore this recipe in detail, providing comprehensive instructions, nutritional information, and tips to ensure your mug cake is a success every time.

Ingredients

For the Peanut Butter Mug Cake:

  • 2 tablespoons natural peanut butter (preferably unsweetened)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, adjust based on sweetness preference)
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tablespoon whole wheat flour (or almond flour for a gluten-free option)
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of your choice)

Optional Toppings:

  • A dollop of low-fat Greek yogurt
  • Fresh berries
  • A drizzle of sugar-free syrup or additional peanut butter

Equipment Needed

  • A microwave-safe mug (10-12 oz capacity)
  • A small mixing bowl
  • A fork or whisk

Instructions

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Before starting, ensure you have all the ingredients ready. This will make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Measure out the peanut butter, honey (if using), egg, cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, vanilla extract, salt, and almond milk.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a small mixing bowl, combine the unsweetened cocoa powder, whole wheat flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Whisk these ingredients together until well combined. This step ensures that the leavening agent (baking powder) is evenly distributed throughout the flour, which is crucial for an even rise in your mug cake.

Step 3: Prepare the Wet Ingredients

In the same bowl or a separate one, add the peanut butter, honey (if using), and the egg. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth. If you find the mixture is too thick, feel free to add a splash of almond milk to loosen it up. Once blended, incorporate the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Using your fork or whisk, gently fold the ingredients together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. The goal is to create a thick batter that holds together nicely.

Step 5: Add Milk

Now, add the almond milk to your batter and stir until fully incorporated. This addition will give your cake a moist texture while keeping the overall point value low.

Step 6: Transfer to the Mug

Grease your microwave-safe mug lightly with cooking spray or a small amount of oil. Pour the batter into the mug, filling it only about halfway to allow room for rising.

Step 7: Microwave Your Cake

Place your mug in the microwave and cook on high for 1 minute and 30 seconds. Cooking times may vary depending on your microwave’s wattage, so check for doneness around the 1-minute mark. The cake should rise and be set in the middle. If it’s still gooey, microwave in 10-15 second intervals until fully cooked.

Step 8: Cool and Top

Once cooked, carefully remove the mug from the microwave (it will be hot!). Allow it to cool for a minute or two. This waiting period will help the cake firm up a bit more. If desired, top with Greek yogurt, fresh berries, or a drizzle of sugar-free syrup.

Step 9: Enjoy

Dig in and savor the rich, peanut buttery goodness of your mug cake! It’s the perfect single-serving dessert to satisfy your cravings while keeping your WW points in check.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 180
  • Protein: 8g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 5g
  • SmartPoints (WW): 5 points

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Tips for Success

  1. Ingredient Quality: Opt for high-quality, natural peanut butter to maximize flavor and minimize added sugars.
  2. Microwave Variability: Microwaves can vary significantly in power; keep a close eye on your cake while cooking to avoid overcooking.
  3. Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to customize your mug cake by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or different extracts (like almond or coconut) for a unique twist.

Storage Tips

This mug cake is best enjoyed fresh, but if you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before enjoying.

This Peanut Butter Mug Cake is not only a quick and easy dessert option, but it also adheres to Weight Watchers guidelines, allowing you to indulge without the guilt. Its simplicity and versatility make it a fantastic choice for any time of day, whether you’re looking for a sweet treat after dinner or a satisfying snack during the day. Enjoy this delightful mug cake, and feel free to get creative with toppings and variations!