Spice Mug Cake
There’s something about the smell of cinnamon, cloves, and ginger wafting through the kitchen that brings instant comfort.
It’s like a time machine to fall days spent baking with family, when everything felt a little cozier.
But let’s be real—sometimes you’re not up for an all-day baking adventure. That’s where this Spice Mug Cake comes in.

It’s got all the warmth and flavor of a traditional spiced cake but is ready in a fraction of the time. No oven needed, no fancy tools—just a mug, a microwave, and a few minutes to spare.
This recipe has become my go-to for those nights when I’m craving something sweet but don’t want the hassle of baking a whole cake.
You know the nights I’m talking about—the ones where you’re curled up with a blanket, a good book, and maybe a movie playing in the background.
The weather’s a little chilly, and all you want is a quick dessert to round out your day.
In the time it takes to brew a cup of tea, you can have this spiced cake in your hands—warm, fluffy, and bursting with the flavors of cinnamon, cloves, and ginger.
And the best part?
It’s super easy to customize. Want it a little sweeter? Drizzle some salted caramel on top. Prefer a bit more spice? Add a dash of nutmeg or cardamom.
The options are endless, and that’s what makes this recipe so fun.
Why You’ll Love This Spice Mug Cake:
- Quick and Easy: You don’t need to be a pro in the kitchen to make this. With just a handful of ingredients and a microwave, you’ll have dessert in minutes.
- Warm and Cozy Flavors: The combination of cinnamon, cloves, and ginger creates that perfect autumn-in-a-mug experience.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings, mix-ins, or spices to make it your own.
- No Oven Needed: Perfect for those days when you want something homemade without heating up the kitchen.
Now, let’s get to the recipe!
Spice Mug Cake Recipe
Ingredients:
- ½ cup self-rising flour
- ¼ cup sugar
- A pinch of ground cinnamon
- A pinch of ground cloves
- A pinch of ground ginger
- A pinch of salt
- ½ cup milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla
- 3 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
How to Make Spice Mug Cake
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and salt.
- Add the milk, vanilla, and melted butter to the dry ingredients. Stir until everything is combined, but don’t overmix—you just want everything blended.
- Pour the batter into two mugs, filling each one no more than halfway to leave room for the cake to rise.
- Microwave each mug for about 1 ½ minutes. The cake is done when the top feels firm but still soft when lightly touched.
- Let the mug cakes cool for a minute, then enjoy them as is, or top them with something special.
Topping Suggestions:
- Cream Cheese Frosting: Rich and tangy, this topping is a perfect match for the warm spices in the cake.
- Salted Caramel Sauce: Drizzle this over the top for a sweet-salty combo that’s hard to resist.
- Maple Frosting: Adds extra sweetness and warmth—perfect for fall.
- Vanilla Glaze: Light and simple, great if you want to keep things classic.
Customization Ideas:
If you want to switch things up, try these fun twists:
- Add-ins: Toss in some chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit for added texture.
- Spice Variations: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for more depth of flavor.
- Make it vegan: Swap out the milk for almond or oat milk, and use melted coconut oil instead of butter.
FAQ for Spice Mug Cake
Can I use regular flour instead of self-rising flour?
Yes, you can! If you don’t have self-rising flour, you can make your own by adding 1 teaspoon of baking powder and a pinch of salt to every ½ cup of all-purpose flour.
What if I don’t have a microwave?
No worries! You can bake this mug cake in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and bake the mug cakes for about 10-12 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
How do I know when the mug cake is done?
The cake should look set on top, with a firm but slightly soft texture when you gently press it. You can also insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out mostly clean, your cake is ready.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use a gluten-free self-rising flour blend in place of regular flour. Just make sure it’s a blend that works well for cakes and baked goods.
What kind of mugs should I use?
You’ll want to use microwave-safe mugs that can hold at least 12 ounces, as the cake will rise while it cooks. Make sure not to fill the mugs more than halfway with batter to prevent overflow.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can mix the dry ingredients ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready, just add the wet ingredients and pop it in the microwave!
Can I make a larger batch?
Yes! If you want to make more than two mug cakes, simply double or triple the recipe. Just be sure not to overcrowd the microwave—cook the cakes one or two at a time.
Related Recipes You’ll Love:
- Chocolate Mug Cake: Rich, gooey, and perfect for when you need a chocolate fix—fast.
- Banana Mug Cake: A quick and cozy take on classic banana bread, made in a mug.
- Lemon Mug Cake: Bright and zesty, this mug cake is perfect for those who love a citrusy dessert.
This Spice Mug Cake is everything you need when you’re craving something sweet but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
It’s simple, quick, and oh-so-satisfying. Whether you’re making it for yourself or sharing it with a loved one, this little treat is sure to bring some warmth and joy to your day.
So go ahead, grab your favorite mug, and whip up this easy, delicious cake. You deserve it!
Spice Mug Cake - Simple Yummy Recipes
Easy Spice Mug Cake recipe with cinnamon and nutmeg. Ready in minutes for a warm and spiced dessert!
Type: dessert
Cuisine: American
Keywords: Spice Mug Cake
Recipe Yield: 2 Mug Cakes
Preparation Time: PT2M
Cooking Time: PT3M
Total Time: PT5M
Recipe Ingredients:
- ½ cup self-rising flour
- ¼ cup sugar
- A pinch of ground cinnamon
- A pinch of ground cloves
- A pinch of ground ginger
- A pinch of salt
- ½ cup milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla
- 3 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
Recipe Instructions: 1. In a medium bowl, mix the flour, sugar, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and salt together. 2. Add the milk, vanilla, and melted butter to the dry ingredients, and stir just until everything is mixed. 3. Pour the batter into two mugs, making sure not to fill them more than halfway. 4. Put each mug in the microwave for 1 and a half minutes, or until the top feels firm but soft when lightly touched. Serve and enjoy!
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