Sometimes I want to make a quick dessert at home, but do not want to make a huge cake or a large pan of brownies because I know that I will just end up eating half the pan. I live with my boyfriend, but he does not have a sweet tooth as I do, and will leave much of the dessert left for me to drool over until I cave in and eat it all. It is then unhealthy if I eat too much of the dessert and wasteful if I throw it out. A good solution to this problem is making a little mug cake for one to enjoy. I found a basic recipe online, and change it up for myself depending on my mood. You simply stir a few basic ingredients into a mug or bowl and pop it in the microwave. It is that easy.

You can even make a healthier mug cake by trading the sugar that is used for Splenda, and substituting applesauce for the oil. You can even use two egg whites instead of the egg. This does change the taste and texture a bit, but is a lifesaver when you need a sweet treat while trying to lose weight. Here is a basic mug cake recipe to get you started:

Basic Chocolate Mug Cake
1/4 cup flour
1/3 cup sugar
1 egg
2 T. Cocoa powder
1/8 tsp. baking powder
1/8 tsp. salt
3 T. milk
3 T. vegetable oil
A few drops of vanilla extract

Mix all ingredients in a large mug. Microwave for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently as microwaves cook differently. Enjoy!

Now, try substituting leaving out the cocoa powder and adding some lemon juice for a lemon mug cake.

Try adding chocolate chips for a delicious chocolate chip cake.

Eliminate the cocoa powder and add a bit more vanilla. Top the vanilla cake with fruit and a bit of whipped cream for a fruit shortcake.

There are too many variations to list, but find your own favorite and let me know what you came up with!