Who doesn’t crave a rich, gooey, and chocolatey brownie every now and then? But here’s the thing: sometimes, you don’t want to bake an entire tray. Maybe you’re worried about devouring the whole batch (we’ve all been there), or you simply don’t want the hassle of washing multiple bowls. That’s where the magic of a single-serve brownie comes in! In just a few minutes, you can whip up a warm, fudgy brownie just for you. No sharing, no guilt—just pure chocolate heaven.

This recipe is ridiculously easy, requires minimal ingredients, and is completely customizable. Let’s dive right in!
Why Make a Single-Serve Brownie?
Before we jump to the recipe, let’s talk about why single-serve brownies deserve a spot in your life:
- Quick Fix for Cravings: Got a sudden hankering for chocolate? This recipe satisfies that in under 5 minutes.
- No Leftovers: Say goodbye to the temptation of an entire pan sitting on the counter.
- Customizable: Add nuts, chocolate chips, or even peanut butter—your brownie, your rules.
- Minimal Cleanup: One bowl, one spoon, one dish. Need I say more?
The Recipe: Single-Serve Brownie (Microwave or Oven!)
Ingredients:

Here’s what you’ll need for your personal-sized brownie:
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder (unsweetened for that deep chocolate flavor)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or melted butter for extra richness)
- 2 tablespoons milk (or any non-dairy alternative like almond or oat milk)
- A pinch of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional add-ins: Chocolate chips, chopped nuts, caramel drizzle, or a sprinkle of sea salt on top.
Instructions:

Microwave Version:
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a microwave-safe mug or small bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and salt until well combined.
- Add the Wet Ingredients: Stir in the milk, oil, and vanilla extract until you have a smooth batter. Be sure to scrape the sides to incorporate all the dry ingredients.
- Customize (Optional): If you’re feeling fancy, throw in some chocolate chips or nuts for added texture.
- Microwave: Cook on high for 60-90 seconds, depending on your microwave’s wattage. Start checking at the 60-second mark; the brownie should look slightly undercooked in the center but set around the edges. It will continue cooking as it cools.
- Cool & Enjoy: Let it cool for 2-3 minutes before digging in (if you can wait that long!).
Oven Version:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Follow the same mixing steps as above, but pour the batter into a greased or parchment-lined ramekin or small oven-safe dish.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly gooey.
- Cool for a few minutes, then enjoy warm with a scoop of ice cream for the ultimate treat.

Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Single-Serve Brownie
Making a single-serve brownie may be simple, but these tips will take yours to the next level:
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can make your brownie tough. Stir just until everything is combined.
- Keep an Eye on the Microwave: Every microwave is different, so check your brownie after 60 seconds. You don’t want to overcook it!
- Experiment with Sweeteners: You can swap granulated sugar for brown sugar or coconut sugar for a richer flavor.
- Use Quality Cocoa Powder: Since cocoa powder is the star of the show, go for a high-quality brand for the best taste.
- Add a Topping: A sprinkle of sea salt, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of melted chocolate can elevate your brownie instantly.

Notes on Substitutions & Variations
- Flour Alternatives: Use almond flour or oat flour for a gluten-free version. Just note that the texture might be slightly different.
- Milk Alternatives: Any plant-based milk (like soy, almond, or coconut) works beautifully here.
- Oil vs. Butter: While vegetable oil gives a moist, fudgy texture, butter adds a slightly richer flavor. Try both and see what you prefer!
- Make It Vegan: Use non-dairy milk and ensure your cocoa powder and sugar are vegan-friendly.
Why Does My Brownie Seem Undercooked?
A gooey center is what makes a brownie irresistible! But if it’s too raw for your liking, simply microwave it in 10-second intervals until it’s cooked to your preference. Remember, the brownie will continue to set as it cools.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this brownie sugar-free?
Absolutely! Swap the granulated sugar for a sugar-free alternative like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. Keep in mind that the taste and texture may vary slightly.
2. What if I don’t have cocoa powder?
You can substitute cocoa powder with melted dark chocolate. Use about 2 tablespoons of melted chocolate and reduce the sugar slightly, as the chocolate may already be sweetened.
3. How do I know when my brownie is done?
In the microwave, the brownie should look set around the edges but slightly soft in the middle. For the oven version, a toothpick inserted near the edge (not the center) should come out with a few moist crumbs.
4. Can I double the recipe?
Yes! You can double or even triple the ingredients to make two or three brownies. Just make sure to cook them separately in the microwave to ensure even cooking.
5. What’s the best way to serve this brownie?
Warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce, or a dusting of powdered sugar. Trust me, it’s worth it!
Final Thoughts
A single-serve brownie is the perfect solution for those moments when you need a quick chocolate fix. It’s easy, delicious, and endlessly customizable. Whether you make it in the microwave or oven, this recipe guarantees a rich, fudgy brownie that will satisfy your sweet tooth every time. So go ahead—indulge in a little self-care with this sweet treat. You deserve it!
Have you tried this recipe? What are your favourite brownie add-ins? Let me know in the comments below I’d love to hear how you made this recipe your own!
Single-Serve Brownie
1
servings2
minutes1
minuteIngredients
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon cocoa powder (unsweetened)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or melted butter)
2 tablespoons milk (or non-dairy alternative)
A pinch of salt
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional add-ins: Chocolate chips, chopped nuts, caramel drizzle, or sea salt
Directions
- Instructions
- Microwave Version:
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a microwave-safe mug or small bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and salt until well combined.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in milk, oil, and vanilla extract until a smooth batter forms. Scrape the sides to incorporate all dry ingredients.
- Customize: (Optional) Fold in chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture.
- Cook: Microwave on high for 60-90 seconds. Start checking at the 60-second mark; the brownie should look slightly undercooked in the center but set at the edges.
- Cool & Enjoy: Let it cool for 2-3 minutes before digging in.
- Oven Version:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Batter: Follow the same mixing steps as above.
- Bake: Pour the batter into a greased or parchment-lined ramekin or small oven-safe dish. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly gooey.
- Cool & Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, optionally with ice cream or a topping of your choice.
Notes
- Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture.
Microwave Variability: Microwave power can vary, so start checking the brownie at the 60-second mark. If it’s undercooked, microwave in 10-second intervals.- Customization: Feel free to add your favourite mix-ins like nuts, chocolate chips, or a sprinkle of sea salt for extra flavor and texture.