There's a big difference between a microwaved mug cake and a layered cake. But perhaps the biggest difference is that mug cakes are cooked in a microwave oven, whereas layered cakes are baked in an oven. In terms of texture, just think about using your microwave to quickly dry your hair - it doesn't get as hot as the average blow dryer, and the end result is definitely not anything like you would get at a professional stylist. The same goes for mug cakes vs. layered cakes. Microwaved mug cakes are quick, easy, and quite delicious; but they aren't going to come remotely close to tasting like their oven-baked counterparts.