Making a mug brownie is a quick and delicious way to satisfy your sweet tooth. This delightful treat is perfect for those who love chocolatey, dense, and fudgy desserts. A mug brownie is essentially a mini, single-serving brownie that you can bake directly in a mug, making it an excellent choice for individual servings. Below, I’ll guide you through the process of making a mug brownie, highlighting key steps and tips to ensure your brownie turns out perfectly.
Ingredients
To make a mug brownie, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- Optional toppings: chocolate chips, nuts, or a dollop of whipped cream
Equipment
- 1 large mug (preferably microwave-safe)
- Spoon for mixing
- Microwave
- Fork or toothpick for checking doneness
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Mug
Start by ensuring your mug is microwave-safe. This is crucial because you’ll be baking your brownie directly in it. A standard ceramic or microwave-safe mug works well. You can also grease the mug lightly with butter or non-stick cooking spray to ensure the brownie comes out easily after baking.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
Place 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in your mug. Microwave on high for about 30-45 seconds, or until the butter is fully melted. Be careful not to overheat it, as this can cause the butter to splatter or burn.
Step 3: Add Sugars and Cocoa Powder
Once the butter is melted, add 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and 1/4 cup of packed brown sugar to the mug. Stir well until the sugars are fully incorporated into the melted butter. This will create a smooth and glossy mixture.
Next, add 1/3 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Stir until the cocoa powder is fully combined and the mixture is thick and chocolatey.
Step 4: Add Vanilla and Egg
Now, add 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the mug. Stir to combine. Vanilla extract adds a lovely flavor depth to your brownie.
Crack 1 large egg into the mug. Stir vigorously until the egg is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth. Be sure to scrape the sides and bottom of the mug to ensure everything is well mixed.
Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients
In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour and 1/4 teaspoon of baking powder. This helps to avoid any lumps in your brownie batter.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the mug, stirring well after each addition. The batter will thicken as you mix in the flour. Continue stirring until all the flour is incorporated and the batter is smooth and thick.
Step 6: Add Optional Toppings
If you want to add some extra flavor and texture to your mug brownie, now is the time to do it. You can stir in a handful of chocolate chips, nuts, or even a sprinkle of espresso powder for an extra chocolatey kick.
Step 7: Microwave
Place your mug in the microwave and cook on high for about 1 minute and 30 seconds to 2 minutes. Microwaves vary in power, so start with 1 minute and 30 seconds and check the brownie’s doneness. It should be set but still slightly gooey in the center—like a traditional brownie.
To check for doneness, insert a fork or toothpick into the center of the brownie. It should come out with a few moist crumbs attached. If the brownie seems too gooey, microwave for an additional 15-30 seconds and check again.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Carefully remove the mug from the microwave and let the brownie cool for a couple of minutes. This will allow it to set up a bit and make it easier to handle.
Once cooled, you can enjoy your mug brownie right from the mug with a spoon, or you can carefully invert it onto a plate if you prefer. If you greased the mug, it should come out easily.
Tips for Perfect Mug Brownies
Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality butter, cocoa powder, and chocolate chips will make a noticeable difference in the taste and texture of your brownie.
Measure Ingredients Accurately: Using the correct amounts of each ingredient is crucial for achieving the right balance of flavors and textures.
Stir Well: Ensure that all ingredients are fully incorporated and there are no lumps in the batter. This will result in a smoother and more evenly baked brownie.
Watch the Microwave: Microwaves vary in power, so it’s important to keep a close eye on your brownie as it bakes. Start with a shorter cooking time and check for doneness frequently to avoid overcooking.
Add Mix-Ins: Feel free to customize your mug brownie by adding your favorite mix-ins, such as nuts, dried fruit, or candy pieces.
Variations and Additions
There are endless possibilities for customizing your mug brownie. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:
Peanut Butter Mug Brownie: Add a tablespoon of peanut butter to the melted butter and sugar mixture before adding the cocoa powder.
Mint Chocolate Mug Brownie: Stir in a teaspoon of peppermint extract along with the vanilla extract.
Nutty Mug Brownie: Fold in some chopped nuts, such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds, before microwaving.
Caramel Mug Brownie: Drizzle a tablespoon of caramel sauce over the top of the baked brownie before serving.
Espresso Mug Brownie: Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the dry ingredients for an extra rich and chocolatey flavor.
Conclusion
Making a mug brownie is a quick and easy way to enjoy a delicious treat without any fuss. With just a few simple ingredients and a microwave, you can have a warm, fudgy brownie in minutes. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a late-night indulgence, or a fun way to satisfy your sweet tooth, a mug brownie is the perfect solution. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps outlined above, and enjoy your homemade mug brownie!
Related Topics:
