This vanilla protein mug cake packs in 13 grams of protein and takes just 5 minutes to make. It’s made with just 7 simple ingredients and can be customized with any protein powder of your choice. Whether you’re treating yourself after a workout or curbing a nighttime sweet tooth, this is one of my favorite single-serve treats to whip up.

What is a protein mug cake?

A protein mug cake is a single-serving cake made in a mug, typically using protein powder to give it a higher-protein profile. It’s the perfect sweet treat when you don’t want to bake a full cake (or do dishes). You just mix the ingredients right in a mug, microwave it for 30–45 seconds, and voilà—you’ve got cake.

Is this mug cake healthy?

As a registered dietitian, I’m always looking for ways to make desserts that are both satisfying and packed with nutrients. This vanilla protein mug cake delivers just that with a perfect combo of nutrient-packed ingredients.

• Vanilla protein powder adds 13 grams of satisfying protein to help you feel full and support muscle recovery.
• Oat flour provides whole grain fiber to support digestion and heart health.
• Cashew butter provides heart-healthy fats and a creamy texture that keeps this cake moist without oil or butter.

In fact, research shows that higher-protein snacks can help manage appetite and improve satiety throughout the day.

What ingredients do you need?

You only need a handful of pantry staples to make this recipe:

• Vanilla protein powder: Use your favorite brand and type of protein powder here. If using an unflavored powder, add an extra 1/2 teaspoon of maple syrup.
• Oat flour: Adds structure and softness. You can make your own by blending rolled oats until finely ground.
• Cashew butter: This ingredient really gives it it’s signature cake-like flavor! It’s usually more expensive though, so you can always swap for peanut or almond butter.
• Maple syrup: Feel free to swap for agave syrup or honey if you don’t have maple syrup.
• Baking powder: Helps the cake rise and get fluffy.
• Vanilla extract: Adds that extra vanilla flavor we all love.
• Milk of your choice: Almond, soy, oat, or dairy—use whatever you have on hand.
• Sprinkles: Totally optional… but highly recommended. It’s not a birthday cake without them!

How do you make a birthday cake vanilla protein mug cake?

This is truly one of the easiest recipes ever. Here’s how to make it step-by-step:

1. Add everything (except the sprinkles) to your mug. Stir until a smooth batter forms.
2. Microwave for 30–45 seconds. The cake should be dry on top and slightly fluffy. Let it cool for 30 seconds before diving in—it helps the texture set.
3. Add toppings like sprinkles, Greek yogurt, cashew butter, or whipped cream if desired. Then grab a spoon and dig in!

Customize it your way

Like all of my recipes, this birthday cake vanilla protein mug cake is completely customizable. Choose what ingredients you want to use:

• Protein powder of your choice: Use your favorite brand and type of protein powder here. If using an unflavored powder, add an extra 1/2 teaspoon of maple syrup. 
• Milk of your choice: Any kind of milk will work here—use oat, almond, soy, or dairy based on what you have.
• Toppings of your choice: I love a dollop of yogurt or more cashew butter on top. You could even go full birthday mode with whipped cream and candles!
• Feel free to mix up the flour – This recipe uses oat flour, but you can totally swap in almond flour or all-purpose flour if that’s what you’ve got on hand. Just note that textures may vary slightly—oat flour gives it a nice cake-like crumb while almond flour makes it extra moist.

Recipe tips and troubleshooting

• Serving: This vanilla protein mug cake is best enjoyed warm, straight from the mug! Top with sprinkles or a spoonful of yogurt for extra creaminess.
• Troubleshooting: If your cake turns out too dry, reduce microwave time slightly or try a splash more milk. If it’s too wet, cook a few seconds longer next time. You want it to feel soft and cakey on top with no liquidy spots.
• Scaling: Want to make one for a friend? Just double the ingredients and split between two mugs. Microwave each one individually for best results.

Can you make these protein mug cakes ahead of time?

These mug cakes are best enjoyed immediately after microwaving, otherwise they tend to dry out as they sit for too long.  If you’re trying to save on time, you can pre-mix your dry ingredients in small jars and then just add the wet ingredients when you’re ready to make it!

Need more help with recipes for your busy schedule?

In my coaching + cooking program, I help busy people with beginner cooking knowledge become confident in the kitchen so that they can enjoy nourishing foods they love and stress less about mealtime. Click here to learn more about this virtual program led by a dietitian.

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try these easy mug recipes too:

• Oreo Protein Mug Cake
• Lemon Blueberry Mug Cake
• Banana Chocolate Chip Flax Mug Muffin