Chocolate Cake in a Mug -- another Mrs. Claus project

When I saw this idea on the Food Network (Pioneer Woman), I thought it would be a great stocking stuffer for college kids or fun gifts for co-workers. 

For our niece in college — a mug of chocolate cake dry ingredients + a container of oil & a small can of evaporated milk (to use for the milk component in Chocolate Cake in a Mug)

Here's the original recipe with slight alterations . . .

Chocolate Cake in a Mug    Makes 1 individual portion

3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

3 tablespoons granulated (white) sugar

2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

¼ teaspoon baking powder

Pinch of salt

3 tablespoons chocolate chips

3 tablespoons milk

3 tablespoons vegetable oil

Splash vanilla extract, optional
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12-ounce microwave-safe ceramic mug
Vanilla Ice Cream, optional

1. Put the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder and salt in a 12-ounce microwave-safe ceramic mug.
2. Blend thoroughly with a fork.
3. Add the milk, vegetable oil and vanilla if using and blend until smooth.
4. Stir in the chocolate chips.
5. Microwave on high for 60 to 90 seconds. Begin with 60 seconds; do not overcook or the cake will be dry.
6. Let cool for 2 to 3 minutes before eating.
7. Top with vanilla ice cream if desired.

Here's how I assembled each 12-ounce mug . . .

To each cup, add & stir:

   3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

   3 tablespoons granulated (white) sugar

   2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

   ¼ teaspoon baking powder

   Pinch of salt
Add:

   3 tablespoons chocolate chips
Then add to a plastic bag, insert prep directions, add a plastic fork and a bow.

Here's a copy of the directions I added to each mug . . .

Chocolate Cake in a Mug    

Needed Ingredients:

3 tablespoons milk

3 tablespoon vegetable oil

To Prepare:

Add milk and vegetable oil to ingredients in mug; stir.

Microwave on high for just 90 seconds.

Let cool for 2 to 3 minutes.
Top with vanilla ice cream if desired.

Eat & enjoy!