This article explores a simple and satisfying recipe for a keto-friendly lemon mug cake, perfect for those following a low-carb or gluten-free diet. This single-serving dessert comes together quickly in the microwave, offering a burst of lemon flavor without the temptation of leftover cake.
Introduction: The Magic of Mug Cakes
Mug cakes are a convenient solution for satisfying sweet cravings without the commitment of baking a full-sized cake. This keto lemon mug cake is not only quick and easy but also surprisingly nutritious, making it a guilt-free treat any time of day. It's a light and refreshing option to end a meal.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe uses a combination of almond flour and coconut flour to achieve the perfect texture. Almond flour provides a light and moist base, while a small amount of coconut flour is essential for absorbing the lemon juice and preventing the cake from becoming soggy. The lemon flavor comes from both lemon juice and lemon zest, creating a bright and tangy taste.
Ingredients You'll Need
Here's what you'll need to create this delightful keto lemon mug cake:
- 1/4 cup superfine almond flour
- 1/4 tsp coconut flour
- 2 Tbsp plant-based sugar or granular sugar substitute (like So Nourished Erythritol Sweetener Granular or Swerve)
- 1 tsp extra virgin coconut oil or melted butter
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 Tbsp lemon juice (fresh lemon juice tastes best)
- 1/4 tsp lemon zest, plus extra for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps for a perfect keto lemon mug cake:
Read also: Lemon Olive Oil Cake (Keto)
- Prepare the mug: Grease an 8-ounce microwave-safe mug with coconut oil or melted butter. This helps the cake rise properly.
- Mix dry ingredients: In the mug, whisk together the almond flour, coconut flour, sugar substitute, and baking powder.
- Add wet ingredients: Add the egg, coconut oil, vanilla extract, and lemon juice to the mug.
- Combine: Mix with a small whisk, spoon, or spatula until the batter is smooth. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can result in a tough cake.
- Incorporate lemon zest: Stir in 1/4 tsp of lemon zest.
- Garnish: Add a little more zest over the surface of the cake. This should only be about a pinch worth spread out across the surface.
- Microwave: Cook in the microwave for about 1 minute and 40 seconds. Cooking times may vary depending on your microwave's wattage. An 1100-watt microwave was used for recipe testing.
- Cool and top: Let the cake cool slightly before dusting with a powdered sugar substitute (like Swerve) or other topping of your choice. Cake is best consumed shortly after it is cooked.
Tips for Success
- Coconut Flour is Key: The coconut flour is essential for this recipe. The cake will not be able to absorb all the lemon juice and will not rise properly without it. At the same time, you need to make sure you only use 1/4 tsp of coconut flour.
- Mug Size Matters: Stick to a standard shaped mug that can hold at least 8 oz of liquid. Ensure your vessel has a volume of at least 200 milliliters and is wider rather than narrow and tall. Mugs or ramekins should not be filled with batter more than half.
- Microwave Wattage: Cooking times may vary depending on your microwave's wattage. Keep an eye on the cake as it cooks. My microwave operates at 900 watts and my cake took 90 seconds to cook. 600W = low power.
- Doneness Test: When the keto mug cake is done, the top will no longer be shiny and will not stick to your finger when lightly pressed. You can always test your mug cake for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center.
- Fresh Lemon is Best: For the most vibrant lemon flavor, use fresh lemon juice and zest.
- Adjust Sweetness: Adjust the amount of sweetener to your liking.
- Don't Overmix: Gently stir the ingredients until just combined. Over-mixing the batter can lead to a tough cake.
Serving Suggestions
This keto lemon mug cake is delicious on its own, but here are some topping ideas to elevate your dessert:
- Low-Carb Lemon Frosting: Top it with low-carb lemon frosting.
- Powdered Sugar Substitute: Dust with powdered sugar substitute (like Swerve).
- Fresh Berries: Pairs well with fresh berries. Garnish with your desired toppings. I have used some Greek yogurt, Blueberries and Lemon zest.
- Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream.
- Sugar-Free Lemon Curd: Drizzle with sugar free lemon curd.
- Poppy Seeds: Add 1 teaspoon of poppy seeds.
Variations and Substitutions
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream or coconut oil instead of the cream.
- Extract: If you don’t have fresh lemon juice, then you can replace 1/2 teaspoon of extract for the tablespoon of fresh lemon juice.
- Add-ins: Add a few blueberries or raspberries into the batter.
Can I Make The Mug Cake With Coconut Flour?
It is not recommended trying to substitute coconut flour for almond flour. Coconut flour absorbs more moisture than almond flour does, so you have to adjust how many wet ingredients you use.
Can I Use Granular Sweetener Instead of Confectioners In The Mug Cake?
Confectioners sugar has a specific texture that affects how light and fluffy this dessert comes out. The granular sweetener doesn't do the same thing to the cake when it cooks. If you don't have any confectioners sugar, it is suggested making your own with one cup of granular sweetener mixed with one tablespoon of arrowroot powder. This will thicken the sugar so that your cake comes out perfect.
Baking Instructions
This treat is meant to be quick and easy, but I realize some people do not like to cook food in a microwave. As long as your mug is oven proof, then this can be baked at 350°F for 12-15 minutes. Test for doneness the same as explained above. Alternatively, an 8 ounce oven proof ramekin dish or small baking dish can be used in place of the mug. To make this cake in the oven, bake for around 12-15 minutes at 180 Celsius (160C fan) or 350 F (320F fan assisted). Test with a toothpick of knife to make sure it's fully cooked.
Make Ahead Instructions
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Freezer: All almond flour cakes are suitable for freezing. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Read also: Low-Carb Lemon Cake
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
Please note that the nutritional information provided are guidelines and may vary based on the brand of products used. For your specific nutritional goals use My Fitness Pal or Verywell Fit recipe calculators. Erythritol carbs are not included in carb counts as it has been shown not to impact blood sugar. Net carbs are the total carbs minus fiber. 2.7g net carbs per serving. Net carbs without the glaze: 2.4g.
More Keto Dessert Ideas
If you enjoy this keto lemon mug cake, here are a few other keto-friendly dessert recipes to try:
- Keto Chocolate Mug Cake
- Vanilla Keto Mug Cake
- Keto Peanut Butter Mug Cake
- Low Carb Carrot Mug Cake
- Keto Brownie In A Mug
- Keto Pumpkin Spice Cake
- Vanilla Paleo Cupcakes
- Coconut Flour Keto Cupcakes
- Slow Cooker Keto Lemon Cake
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