Lemon Cottage Cheese Mug Cake (Print version)

Single-serving microwave cake with creamy cottage cheese and bright lemon flavor. Ready in 7 minutes.

# What you need:

→ Wet Ingredients

01 - 1/4 cup cottage cheese
02 - 1 large egg
03 - 2 tablespoons milk
04 - 1 tablespoon melted butter
05 - 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
06 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Dry Ingredients

07 - 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
08 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
09 - 1/2 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
10 - 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
11 - Pinch of salt

# Directions:

01 - In a microwave-safe mug with at least 12 oz capacity, whisk together cottage cheese, egg, milk, melted butter, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until completely smooth.
02 - Add flour, sugar, lemon zest, baking powder, and salt to the mug. Mix until just combined, ensuring to scrape down the sides and incorporate any dry pockets.
03 - Microwave on high power for 1 minute 30 seconds to 2 minutes, watching until the cake has risen and the center appears set.
04 - Allow the cake to cool for 2-3 minutes before serving. Enjoy directly from the mug, optionally dusted with powdered sugar, extra lemon zest, or topped with yogurt.

# Expert advice:

01 -
  • The cottage cheese creates this incredibly moist, tender crumb that somehow still feels light and airy
  • You probably have everything in your kitchen right now, and it takes literally seven minutes from start to finish
02 -
  • Microwave wattages vary wildly, so start checking at 90 seconds and add more time in 15-second increments
  • Use a mug that's at least 12 ounces because the cake will rise significantly and could overflow smaller vessels
03 -
  • Spray your mug with a little cooking spray for easier cleanup, though honestly I usually skip this step
  • If you don't have a microwave, this batter works in a ramekin baked at 350°F for 12-15 minutes