Introduction
The ‘Royal Vanilla Cake Bowl’ is the ultimate indulgence for those moments when a craving for gourmet dessert strikes but time is scarce. Far surpassing the standard mug cake, this recipe utilizes high-quality vanilla and rich butter to create a dense, moist, single-serving cake that bakes perfectly right inside its serving bowl. Originating from the desire for quick, decadent comfort food, this cake bowl can be prepared and cooked in under five minutes, making it a truly regal treat available instantly.
Ingredients
- All-Purpose Flour: 4 tablespoons (60 grams)
- Granulated Sugar: 3 tablespoons (45 grams)
- Baking Powder: 1/2 teaspoon (2 grams)
- Salt: 1 pinch (1 gram)
- Milk (Whole or 2%): 3 tablespoons (45 ml / 1.5 fl oz)
- Unsalted Butter (Melted): 2 tablespoons (30 grams / 1 oz)
- Egg: 1 small egg yolk OR 1/4 large egg, lightly beaten
- Pure Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon (5 ml)
- Optional Topping: Whipped cream, fresh berries, or caramel drizzle.
Step-by-step Preparation
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Use a small whisk or fork to ensure there are no lumps and the baking powder is evenly distributed.
Tip: Whisking the dry ingredients for 30 seconds helps aerate the flour, resulting in a lighter cake texture, even without a mixer.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate small bowl, gently whisk the melted butter, milk, beaten egg/yolk, and pure vanilla extract until combined. Ensure the butter is only warm, not hot, to prevent scrambling the egg.
Tip: Use high-quality vanilla bean paste instead of extract for an even deeper, more “royal” vanilla flavor.
- Combine and Transfer: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix; a few small lumps are acceptable. Transfer the batter immediately into a standard microwave-safe ramekin or small ceramic dessert bowl (approximately 8 oz capacity).
- Microwave the Cake: Place the bowl in the microwave. Cook on high (1000W) for 60 to 90 seconds. The cake is done when the edges look set and the top is mostly firm, but still slightly moist in the center.
Cooking Time Note: If using a lower wattage microwave (700W), cooking time may extend up to 120 seconds. Always check after 60 seconds.
- Serve Immediately: Carefully remove the hot bowl using oven mitts. Let it cool for one minute before adding your desired toppings, such as a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of fresh whipped cream.
Nutritional Information
This recipe yields one generous serving. Approximate nutritional values are based on the ingredients listed above, excluding optional toppings. Calories per serving: approximately 380-410 kcal. This dessert is rich in carbohydrates for immediate energy and provides a good source of calcium (from the milk). Due to the high sugar and fat content, this is best enjoyed as an occasional treat.
Storage
The Royal Vanilla Cake Bowl is designed to be eaten immediately while warm. If you must store leftovers, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. To reheat, microwave for 10-15 seconds until warmed through. However, the texture will be slightly denser than when freshly baked.
Conclusion
The simplicity and speed of the Royal Vanilla Cake Bowl make it a perfect solution for late-night cravings or last-minute dessert needs. For a truly decadent finish, serve the cake bowl topped with a scoop of premium vanilla bean ice cream and a homemade raspberry coulis. Alternatively, turn this into a chocolate lava cake variation by dropping a square of high-quality dark chocolate into the center of the batter before microwaving. Enjoy this quick, luxurious dessert fit for royalty!