High Protein Chocolate Mug Cake (No Protein Powder)

May 14, 2025

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Published: May 14, 2025 by Cathy Chenard · This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

This chocolate high-protein mug cake is satisfying bowl cake that’s quick to make, low in carbs, and packed with protein to keep you full!

High protein chocolate mug cake in a bowl topped with sugar-free whipped cream

This chocolate protein mug cake is rich, moist, and perfectly sweet without any of that weird aftertaste you sometimes get from protein powders or sugar-free sweeteners. It’s super easy to make and hits the spot when you want something sweet and filling.

It’s also high in protein — 16 grams, which makes up almost 25% of the calories. That means it’ll actually keep you full, thanks to the egg and cottage cheese. It’s low in carbs too, with almond flour and sugar-free chocolate chips instead of regular flour or sugar.

Even though it’s called a mug cake, it’s more like a bowl cake since it makes a big portion that’s difficult to fit in a mug. It comes together in about 5 minutes, and downright delicious when topped sugar-free whipped cream on top. Great as a quick snack or dessert.

Key Ingredients

Low-fat cottage cheese (2% milkfat): Adds moisture and a boost of protein without the need for protein powder. We use a low-fat cottage cheese to increase the protein level.

Egg: Helps hold everything together and adds even more protein.

Almond flour: Keeps it low-carb while giving the cake structure. Be sure to use blanched, super-fine almond flour in this recipe.

Coconut flour: Soaks up extra moisture for a better texture. A little goes a long way.

Baking powder: Gives the cake a bit of lift so it’s not too dense.

Lily’s sugar-free semi-sweet baking chips: We use Lily’s sugar-free semi-sweet chocolate baking chips, but you could also consider Lily’s sugar-free dark chocolate or milk chocolate baking chips.

Monk fruit with erythritol (granular): We use monk fruit sweetener to add a little sweetness, but you can use another sweetener of choice. Other sugar-free options include allulose, erythritol, stevia, etc. Just be sure to checker out this sweetener conversion chart.

Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor and makes it taste more like dessert.

Step-by-Step Instructions

STEP 1: In a small or medium bowl (mugs are often too small and don’t give the best results), microwave the sugar-free chocolate chips in 30-second bursts until you’re able to stir until smooth.

STEP 2: Add the cottage cheese to the melted chocolate and stir until fully combined.
Note: For a smoother texture with no visible curds, you can pulse the cottage cheese in a food processor beforehand—totally optional.

STEP 3: Add the remaining ingredients and stir well until the batter is smooth and evenly mixed. Microwave on high for 30 seconds, then give it a quick stir.

STEP 4: Microwave for 1 more minute, then pause to let it deflate a little. Continue heating for another minute, or until the center is mostly set. A slightly sticky center is normal. If it still looks very wet, microwave in 15-second bursts until done. Total cook time is usually about 2 minutes and 30 seconds.

STEP 5: Let cool for 1 minute. Serve warm on its own or topped with sugar-free whipped cream or low-carb ice cream.

Expert Tips

Even though it’s called a mug cake, we recommend using a small or medium bowl. The batter rises quite a bit and can easily overflow in a mug.
For a smoother texture with no visible curds, you can pulse the cottage cheese and egg white together before mixing in the rest of the ingredients.
Make sure everything is thoroughly mixed before microwaving to ensure even cooking.
Keep an eye on it while it cooks. If the batter starts to rise too high, pause the microwave and let it deflate before continuing.
The center may look a little sticky or glossy when done, which is normal. If it’s still runny, microwave in 15-second bursts until set.

How to Store

You can store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds to warm it back up.

More High Protein Desserts

If you try this recipe, we would love to hear your feedback! Leave a comment, rate it, and tag @lowcarbsimplified on your photo of this recipe on Instagram or Facebook. We hope you enjoy this recipe as much as we do!

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