James
This recipe makes one large mug bread or two small servings. It is soft, fluffy, and can be enjoyed plain, with butter, jam, cheese, or alongside soups and curries.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 8 tablespoons (½ cup / 60 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon sugar (optional, but improves flavor and browning)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon dried basil (optional)
- Pinch of black pepper (optional)
Wet Ingredients
- 5 tablespoons milk (room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, melted butter, or olive oil
- 1 teaspoon plain yogurt (optional, for extra softness)
Optional Mix-ins
Choose any combination:
- 2 tablespoons shredded cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs
- 1 tablespoon chopped olives
- 1 tablespoon sweet corn
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped bell pepper
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
- 1 teaspoon flax seeds
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes
Equipment
- One microwave-safe mug (at least 12-ounce / 350 ml capacity)
- Measuring spoons
- Fork or small whisk
- Small bowl (optional)
- Microwave
Step 1: Prepare the Mug
Choose a large microwave-safe mug. A larger mug prevents the batter from overflowing while cooking.
Lightly grease the inside with a few drops of oil or butter. This helps the bread release easily after cooking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Place into the mug:
- Flour
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Sugar
- Garlic powder (if using)
- Onion powder (if using)
- Herbs (if using)
- Pepper
Mix thoroughly with a fork for about one minute. Breaking up any lumps now helps create a smoother bread later.
Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients
Pour in:
- Milk
- Oil
- Yogurt (if using)
Mix slowly at first so flour does not spill over the mug.
Continue stirring until no dry flour remains.
The batter should be thick but smooth.
If it seems:
- Too dry, add 1 teaspoon milk.
- Too runny, add 1 teaspoon flour.
Step 4: Fold in Mix-ins
If adding cheese or vegetables:
Gently fold them into the batter.
Do not overmix once the vegetables are added.
Sprinkle sesame or flax seeds over the top if desired.
Step 5: Rest the Batter
Allow the batter to rest for about 5 minutes.
This gives the flour time to absorb the liquid and allows the baking powder to begin working.
The bread often turns out softer after this short rest.
Step 6: Microwave
Cook on High power.
Approximate cooking times:
- 700 W: 2½–3 minutes
- 800 W: 2–2½ minutes
- 900–1000 W: 1½–2 minutes
Do not overcook.
The bread is ready when:
- The top looks dry.
- The center feels springy.
- A toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean.
If needed, microwave in additional 10-second intervals.
Step 7: Cooling
Allow the mug bread to cool for 3–5 minutes.
Cooling helps the crumb finish setting and makes it easier to remove.
Run a butter knife around the edge if needed.
Invert onto a plate or enjoy directly from the mug.
Serving Ideas
Serve warm with:
- Butter
- Jam
- Honey
- Cream cheese
- Peanut butter
- Garlic butter
- Soup
- Curry
- Scrambled tofu
- Grilled vegetables
Flavor Variations
Garlic Herb Bread
Add:
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon parsley
- 1 tablespoon Parmesan or cheddar cheese
Cheese Bread
Mix in:
- 3 tablespoons cheddar
- Pinch of paprika
- Pinch of black pepper
Italian Style
Add:
- Oregano
- Basil
- Garlic powder
- Mozzarella cheese
- Sun-dried tomatoes
Spicy Bread
Add:
- Chili flakes
- Black pepper
- Jalapeños
- Cheese
Whole Wheat Version
Replace half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
You may need 1–2 extra teaspoons of milk because whole wheat flour absorbs more liquid.
Storage
If not eating immediately:
- Cool completely.
- Wrap tightly or store in an airtight container.
- Keep at room temperature for up to 1 day or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the microwave for 10–20 seconds before serving.
Tips for Best Results
- Measure ingredients accurately.
- Do not pack the flour into the measuring spoon or cup.
- Use fresh baking powder.
- Mix only until combined.
- Avoid overcooking, as microwave bread can become rubbery.
- A larger mug gives the bread room to rise.
- Resting the batter before cooking improves texture.
- Let the bread cool slightly before eating for the best crumb.
This recipe is highly customizable, so you can make it savory with herbs and cheese or keep it plain for serving with sweet or savory toppings.
