2 Ingredient Protein Mug Cake – TikTok Viral Hack Tested
Ingredients
- 1 scoop chocolate or vanilla protein powder
- ½ ripe banana mashed
- ¼ tsp baking powder for fluffier texture
- 1 tbsp almond milk
- 1 tsp nut butter or chocolate chip
Method
- In a microwave-safe mug, mash the banana until smooth.
- Add protein powder and stir until fully combined.
- Optional: Add baking powder or almond milk and mix again.
- Microwave on high for 60 to 90 seconds.
- Let cool slightly and enjoy straight from the mug!
Notes
- For a gooier cake, microwave for 60 seconds.
- For a more cake-like texture, microwave for 90 seconds.
- Use a very ripe banana for the best natural sweetness.
- Try peanut butter swirl or add cinnamon for flavor.
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Looking for a quick, healthy dessert that doesn’t involve 10 ingredients and 30 minutes? Meet the 2 ingredient protein mug cake the internet’s newest obsession that’s high in protein, low in effort, and ready in under 2 minutes.
We tested this TikTok viral recipe to see if it lives up to the hype. Here’s what we found (plus our favorite tweaks).
🍫 What Is a 2 Ingredient Protein Mug Cake?
It’s exactly what it sounds like: a single-serve cake made from just two ingredients typically protein powder and banana microwaved in a mug. That’s it.
This minimalist version of the protein mug cake is popular with fitness lovers and busy students because it’s:
- High in protein
- Naturally sweetened
- No eggs or dairy needed
- Microwave-only
- Dorm- and budget-friendly
🧾 What You’ll Need
- 1 scoop of protein powder (vanilla or chocolate work best)
- ½ to 1 ripe banana, mashed
Optional add-ons (if you’re not strict about “2”):
- ¼ tsp baking powder (helps it rise)
- A pinch of cinnamon
- 1 tbsp almond milk for creamier texture
- 1 tsp peanut butter or chocolate chips on top
🥄 How to Make It
- In a microwave-safe mug, mash the banana until smooth.
- Add your scoop of protein powder and stir well until fully combined.
- Optional: Add 1 tsp almond milk or a dash of baking powder.
- Microwave on high for 60 to 90 seconds.
- Let cool slightly, then enjoy straight from the mug!
🧪 What We Noticed When Testing
We made this recipe several times using different protein powders and bananas. Here’s what worked best:
- Bananas: Use one that’s fully ripe (spotted is good!). Firmer bananas = dry cake.
- Protein powder: Plant-based protein powders gave a denser texture. Whey blends were softer but sometimes sticky.
- Without baking powder: Still worked! Just denser and more brownie-like.
- With extras: A splash of almond milk or dash of vanilla dramatically improves taste and fluffiness.
⚖️ Nutritional Breakdown (estimation)
Using 1 scoop chocolate whey protein + 1 medium banana:
- Calories: ~200
- Protein: ~20g
- Sugar: ~12g (from banana)
- Fat: ~1–3g
Perfect for post-workout recovery or a sweet late-night treat with a clean conscience.
🔁 Variations to Try
- Peanut Butter Swirl: Add 1 tsp of peanut butter in the center before microwaving
- Mocha Version: Use coffee-flavored protein or add a pinch of espresso powder
- Cinnamon Bun: Use vanilla protein + cinnamon + a drizzle of almond butter
- No banana? Use 2 tbsp unsweetened applesauce or 1 tbsp Greek yogurt
🧩 Related Recipes You’ll Love
If you’re craving more high-protein, budget-friendly recipes that are quick to make, here are a few favorites from our collection:
- Try our full guide to the Protein Mug Cake with variations like banana swirl, vegan, and 2-ingredient hacks.
- For a fluffy, satisfying breakfast, don’t miss our High Protein Pancake Recipe perfect for dorm life and post-workout meals.
- Need a grab-and-go breakfast idea? Our Peanut Butter Overnight Oats are creamy, energizing, and ideal for busy mornings.
❓FAQ – 2 Ingredient Protein Mug Cake
Does it really taste like cake?
It’s more like a soft protein brownie don’t expect bakery-level fluff, but it’s warm, satisfying, and sweet.
Can I use flavored protein powder?
Yes! Vanilla, chocolate, peanut butter, or mocha all work great.
Is baking powder required?
No — but adding ¼ tsp improves texture if you’re not strictly limiting yourself to 2 ingredients.
Can I make it ahead of time?
It’s best fresh, but you can pre-mix the batter in a mug and store it in the fridge for 12–24h.
📌 Final Thoughts
The 2 ingredient protein mug cake proves that healthy desserts don’t have to be complicated. With just a banana and some protein powder, you get a warm, protein-packed treat that takes less than 2 minutes to make.
Whether you’re in a dorm, at the gym, or home after a long day, this is one recipe you’ll keep coming back to.