Single Serve Red Velvet Cake

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Single serve red velvet cake might just become your new favorite for those quick dessert cravings. Growing up in a food-obsessed family surrounded by kitchen creativity, I learned early that every craving deserves a sweet answer. This recipe is my personal solution whenever I want a moist, gorgeous cake for myself, without any extras to tempt me later. The best part? You whip it up right in a mug or ramekin, and you’re only minutes away from pure cake happiness. No giant mess, no fuss, just the kind of simple treat I adore after long days, similar to my late-night sessions with these no bake mango cheesecake cups.

What Is Single Serve Red Velvet Cake?

Single serve red velvet cake is everything you love about classic red velvet, but scaled down for just one. Imagine rich, cocoa-scented cake with a bright red color and a signature tang, topped with luscious cream cheese frosting. Now picture all of that baked in a cozy mug or ramekin, ready in a flash. It’s perfect for midnight cravings, movie nights, or when you simply want a treat without sharing. No leftovers, no waste, just that soft, fluffy bite you need right now.

Ingredient Lineup: What You Need

• All-purpose flour: The foundation of the cake. Feel free to use a gluten-free blend if needed.
• Cocoa powder: Unsweetened is best for that classic flavor. For more on cocoa in desserts, check my cocoa powder guide.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetness is key! Coconut or brown sugar are great substitutes.
• Baking powder: Essential for a fluffy texture.
• Salt: Just a pinch for balance.
• Buttermilk: For the trademark tang. Substitute with milk and a splash of lemon juice if you’re out.
• Vegetable oil: Makes every bite tender. Melted butter or coconut oil also work.
• Egg yolk: Keeps it moist and rich. You can use applesauce for an eggless version.
• Vanilla extract: For aroma and depth.
• Red food coloring: That signature color! Beet powder is a great natural swap.
• Cream cheese frosting: Highly recommended! Find extra tips for frosting here.

How To Make Single Serve Red Velvet Cake: Step-by-Step

1. Get Your Mug Ready

Lightly grease your favorite mug or ramekin. It helps your cake release easily, or you can eat it right from the dish. If you’re like me, that’s part of the fun!

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

Add flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt to the mug. Use a fork to whisk everything together.

3. Add Wet Ingredients

Pour in buttermilk, oil, egg yolk, vanilla, and red food coloring. Stir until the batter is silky smooth, with no dry patches hiding at the bottom.

4. Bake or Microwave

Microwave your mug on high for about 1 minute 10 seconds. Start checking at the 1-minute mark. The top should look set but still a bit moist underneath. Baking? Pop the mug in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 17–20 minutes.

5. Cool and Frost

Let your cake cool for a few minutes. Finish with a dollop of cream cheese frosting or a swipe of my vegan buttercream. Grab a spoon and enjoy!

Fun Customizations & Baker’s Tips

• No buttermilk? Use regular milk with a splash of lemon juice or vinegar.
• Dairy-free twist: Swap plant milk and use coconut cream instead of classic frosting.
• Egg-free? Unsweetened applesauce or aquafaba works well.
• Want extra chocolate? Add a sprinkle of chocolate chips or check out my chocolate mousse cake for more chocolate goodness.
• Skip the food coloring: Use beet powder, or simply enjoy a cocoa “velvet” cake.

Serving Suggestions: Make It Extra Special

There’s something so cozy about eating this cake straight from the mug, topped with melty frosting. For a little flair, dust with powdered sugar, add a handful of fresh raspberries, or drizzle with chocolate syrup. This cake pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee after dinner or alongside vanilla ice cream if you’re feeling bold. Try serving it on a pretty plate for a fancier feel, just like I do with my classic vanilla bundt cake.

Tips For A Perfect Single Serve Red Velvet Cake

• Use a tall mug to give the cake plenty of space to rise.
• Scrape the sides and bottom when mixing to avoid flour pockets.
• Always check your cake at the 1-minute mark if microwaving, microwaves vary a lot.
• Don’t overbake; a soft center keeps it dreamy.
• Top while slightly warm for a melty frosting swirl.

Q&A: Your Red Velvet Mug Cake Questions Answered

Why This Single Serve Red Velvet Cake Will Be Your New Fave

There’s just something extra special about making a treat just for yourself. This single serve red velvet cake gives you big, classic flavor with none of the fuss, just like my ultimate chocolate raspberry fudge cake and blueberry muffin cookies. With a handful of pantry staples, you can treat yourself whenever the mood strikes.

More Dessert Ideas You’ll Want to Try

• No Bake Cookies and Cream Mousse Cake: So creamy and easy!
• Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies: Swirls of red velvet and tangy cheesecake.
• Classic Pound Cake: Simple and buttery.
• Birthday Cake Protein Balls: Sweet, snackable, and fun.
• Double Chocolate Chip Cookies: For serious chocolate cravings.

Behind The Scenes: My Single Serve Red Velvet Cake Story

If you’d seen my first attempt at this mug cake, you’d laugh! Too much cocoa, not enough oil, and let’s just say the texture was “interesting.” But I kept tweaking, adding more buttermilk and adjusting microwave time, until I landed on this fluffy, perfectly tangy version. Now, it’s my quick fix for cake cravings, reminding me of family kitchen experiments and late-night treats. For more behind-the-scenes peeks and recipe wins (and fails!), join me over on Pinterest. I’d love to see your mug cake creations too!

Single Serve Red Velvet Cake Near Me

Ever want a single serve red velvet cake but just not in the mood to bake? Pop your city or ZIP code below and you’ll see local bakeries and dessert shops that offer this dreamy treat. Whether it’s a pick-me-up on a busy day or a cozy dessert for your own movie night, a slice of red velvet cake is never far away.

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