America loves cake, and for good reason. Birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, and going away parties all call for a cake. But what if you crave a slice without a special occasion? This keto vanilla mug cake is the perfect solution. It's a light, airy, and satisfying dessert that's ready in just 4 minutes and contains only 2.5g net carbs. This recipe is gluten-free and low-carb, making it a great option for those on a ketogenic diet.
Why Mug Cakes?
Baking a full-sized cake can be time-consuming and require a lot of effort. Sometimes, you just want a single serving of cake without the hassle of preheating the oven, getting out all the baking tools, and being tempted by leftover slices for days. Mug cakes are the perfect answer! They're quick, easy, and provide a single serving of deliciousness.
Key Ingredients for Keto Vanilla Mug Cake
This keto vanilla mug cake recipe relies on a few key ingredients to achieve its delicious flavor and texture while keeping the carb count low:
- Almond Flour: Almond flour provides a nutty flavor and healthy fats. Ground almonds are often used, which are coarser than super fine almond flour. If using super-fine almond flour, reduce the amount to 1 ½ tbsp. Superfine almond flour, particularly blanched superfine almond flour, is recommended for a finer texture and improved appearance.
- Coconut Flour: Coconut flour adds a subtle tropical taste and helps create a denser cake. The combination of coconut and almond flour works well in gluten-free, low-carb recipes.
- Butter: Butter contributes to the cake's flavor and texture. For a dairy-free version, coconut oil can be used as a substitute.
- Egg: The egg provides structure, helps the cake rise, and binds the flours together. A medium egg is recommended to avoid an overly eggy taste.
- Sweetener: A granulated erythritol monk fruit sweetener blend (1:1 sugar substitute) is an excellent option for a keto-friendly sweetener. Allulose and xylitol can also be used. Adjust the amount of sweetener to your preference.
- Baking Powder: Baking powder helps the cake rise and achieve a light and airy texture.
- Vanilla Extract: A good quality vanilla extract is essential for a delicious vanilla flavor. For an even richer vanilla flavor, consider using vanilla bean paste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here's how to make this easy low carb mug cake:
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, stir together the almond flour, coconut flour, baking powder, and sweetener. Break up any lumps to ensure a smooth batter.
- Whisk Wet Ingredients: In a second bowl, whisk the egg using a fork. Then, add the melted and cooled butter plus the vanilla extract and whisk until combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until a smooth batter forms.
- Prepare the Mug: Grease a mug or ramekin with butter. Choose a cup or ramekin that holds a minimum of 200ml.
- Fill the Mug: Pour the batter into the prepared mug. Mugs or ramekins should not be filled with batter more than half full, leaving space for the cake to rise.
- Microwave: Microwave the cake on high power. Cooking times vary depending on microwave wattage:
- 900W: 80 seconds
- 600W: Low powerCheck the cake 10 seconds before it's finished and add increments of 10 seconds if needed. Avoid overcooking, as the cake will continue to cook in the hot cup after removal from the microwave.
- Cool and Enjoy: Let the cake cool for a few minutes before consuming. Enjoy straight from the mug or invert onto a plate.
Tips for Success
- Mug Size Matters: Use an appropriately sized mug or ramekin with a volume of at least 200 millilitres. The vessel should be wider rather than narrow and tall to prevent the batter from overflowing.
- Don't Overfill: Always leave a few fingers of free space between the batter and the rim of the mug.
- Microwave Wattage: Cooking times may vary depending on your microwave wattage. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Avoid Overcooking: Cakes continue to cook in the hot cup after you take them out of the microwave. So don't be tempted to overcook!
Variations and Toppings
This vanilla keto mug cake is delicious on its own, but here are some ideas to jazz it up:
Read also: Easy Low-Carb Cheese Crackers
- Berries: Stir berries into the batter, such as blueberries, raspberries, or chopped strawberries. Blackberries, raspberries, and strawberries are your best low-carb options.
- Whipped Cream: Serve with a dollop of sugar-free whipped cream.
- Victoria Sponge Cake: Turn it into a Victoria sponge cake with keto-friendly fillings.
Considerations for Ketosis
While this vanilla mug cake is keto and low-carb, it does contain some carbohydrates. Be mindful of your overall carbohydrate intake when incorporating this recipe into your meal plan. Frosting might be overkill when your ketosis is on the line.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains approximately 2.5g net carbs. Nutritional data is provided as a courtesy and is based on calculations using Total Keto Diet app software. It's recommended to independently calculate nutritional information on your own.
Read also: Keto Calorie Counting: A Detailed Guide
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