When you live in a dorm with food allergies, dessert can be tricky. And after a long day of classes and practice, I just want something sweet that I can make safely — no oven, no eggs, no dairy, no nuts, and no stress. This recipe fits the bill: Chocolate Mug Cake, a one-cup dessert I can make right in my dorm microwave. It’s quick, safe, and tastes like something you’d get from a café.

Here’s how I make it:

Ingredients

• 4 tbsp flour (use gluten-free if needed)
• 2 tbsp cocoa powder
• 2 tbsp sugar (or maple syrup)
• ¼ tsp baking powder
• pinch of salt
• 3 tbsp non-dairy milk (I use oat milk)
• 2 tbsp applesauce
• ¼ tsp vanilla extract

Directions

1. In a microwave-safe mug , mix the dry ingredients.
2. Add the milk, applesauce, and vanilla. Stir until smooth.
3. Microwave for about 1 minute 15 seconds (add a few extra seconds if it’s still gooey in the center).
4. Let it cool for a minute, then top it with dairy-free chocolate chips (I recommend these chocolate chips).

That’s it — no fancy equipment, no hidden allergens, and no need to leave your dorm. I’ve made this during late-night study sessions and even shared it with friends who couldn’t believe it was allergy-friendly. I keep the oat milk and apple sauce in my dorm fridge and the other ingredients I keep in a sealed Tupperware container. If you click on the links above, you can have Amazon deliver what you need right to your dorm! Don’t forget the measuring spoons!

If you try it, tag #CampusAllergyLife so we can see your mug-cake creations. Trust me — once you make it, you’ll keep the recipe saved for finals week!

_{As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.}

• Print
• Mail
• ShareCopied to clipboard