You know that cozy feeling when you bite into warm apple pie fresh from Grandma’s oven, the cinnamon wafting through the whole house? Well, this 5-minute apple cinnamon mug cake is like a speedy little tribute to that comforting moment—without the fuss of slicing crust or waiting an hour. It’s quick, sweet, and perfectly spiced with tender apple bits folded right in. Honestly, it’s saved me more than once when I’ve craved something warm, fruity, and just a little bit indulgent but didn’t want to make a mess in the kitchen. And bonus? It’s single-serving, so no leftovers to worry about. Ready to whip up your next favorite quick treat?
Quick Facts
Yield: Serves 1
Prep Time: 3 minutes
Cook Time: 2 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
For the Main Dish:
4 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 tbsp granulated sugar
1/4 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
2 tbsp milk
1 tbsp melted butter (or neutral oil)
1/4 tsp vanilla extract
1/3 cup peeled and diced apple (about half a small apple)
A pinch of salt
How I Make It
Step 1:
Start by placing your diced apple in a microwave-safe mug or bowl and microwave it for about 30 seconds. This softens it up so it’s tender and juicy inside the cake without getting tough.
Step 2:
In the same mug, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until well combined. This dry mix will give your mug cake the perfect crumb.
Step 3:
Add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients and stir until just smooth. Be careful not to overmix; a few tiny lumps are okay.
Step 4:
Gently fold in the warmed diced apples. They’ll add bursts of tender sweetness and that unmistakable apple aroma.
Step 5:
Microwave your mug cake on high for about 1 minute and 30 seconds to 2 minutes. Start checking at 1 minute 30 seconds. The top should spring back lightly when touched, and it shouldn’t look wet.
Step 6:
Let it cool for a minute or two before digging in. If you want, sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top or a drizzle of honey to enhance the flavors.
Variations & Tips
Swap the diced apple for pear or berries for a different fruit twist.
Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
Use almond or oat milk to make it dairy-free.
Include a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth.
If your microwave tends to cook unevenly, pause and rotate your mug halfway through cooking.
For a more decadent treat, top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
How I Like to Serve It
This mug cake is perfect in the chill of fall afternoons, accompanied by a hot cup of chai or coffee. It also works wonderfully as a quick weeknight dessert when you want something fresh and warm but don’t want to commit to a big baking project. Sometimes, I even enjoy it slightly cooled for a cozy snack while curled up with a book.
Notes
This mug cake is best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours and gently reheated in the microwave for 20-30 seconds.
If you want to reduce sugar, slightly cut down the granulated sugar; the apple’s natural sweetness still shines.
Closing: This little mug cake always feels like a hug in dessert form — simple, fast, and full of homey warmth.
