Apple Cinnamon Mug Cake

I’ll never forget the first time I tried to make a mug cake. To be honest, it was a total disaster—way too dry and far from what I’d imagined!

But after a few tries and a little experimenting, I found the magic formula with this Apple Cinnamon Mug Cake.

Now, it’s one of my favorite treats to make on a cozy afternoon. The best part? It takes just 7 minutes, and you only need a handful of simple ingredients. I promise, it’s easier (and tastier!) than you might think!

Why I Love This Apple Cinnamon Mug Cake

You know what I love most about this mug cake?

It tastes just like a warm, spiced apple pie, but without all the fuss. Growing up, apple pie was a holiday staple, but sometimes, I want that cinnamon-apple goodness in a single serving, and this mug cake delivers!

Plus, the cake is soft, fluffy, and perfectly spiced, and the creamy topping just takes it to the next level.

My whole family goes crazy for it, especially on those chilly afternoons when we’re all craving something warm and sweet.

One of the things I adore about this recipe is how flexible it is. You can add your twist, whether it’s with a sprinkle of nutmeg, a handful of nuts, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

The memories and cozy vibes this recipe brings back make it one I reach for again and again. And trust me, after you make it once, it’ll become a go-to for you, too!

Here’s What You’ll Need

For the Cake:

• Self-Rising Flour (3 tbsp): I usually pick up self-rising flour at my local store, but if you don’t have it, just add a pinch of baking powder to regular flour.
• Applesauce (1 tbsp): Applesauce keeps this cake super moist, and it adds that subtle apple flavor without needing to peel or chop apples.
• Ground Cinnamon (½ tsp): Cinnamon is the star here! If you want a stronger cinnamon kick, feel free to add a little extra.
• Brown Sugar (1 tbsp): This gives a rich sweetness and adds a hint of caramel flavor.
• Vegetable Oil (½ tbsp): Helps keep the cake tender. You can also use melted butter for a bit of extra richness.
• Milk (½ tbsp): A splash of milk makes the batter smooth. Any milk will work—dairy, almond, or even oat milk!
• Vanilla Extract (a little bit): Just a dash for that cozy aroma. Trust me, it makes a difference.

For the Cream Cheese Topping:

• Cream Cheese (2 tbsp): Smooth and tangy, this is the perfect topping for the cake.
• Milk (1 tsp): Just a splash to thin it out so it’s spreadable.
• Powdered Sugar (1 ½ tbsp): Adds the right amount of sweetness without being too heavy.

How to Make This Apple Cinnamon Mug Cake

First things first: grab your favorite mug. It should be microwave-safe and big enough to let the cake rise without spilling over.

Here’s my tip—I always give the mug a quick spritz with cooking spray for easy cleanup later.

Starting the Cake:

1. Start by mixing the cream cheese, milk, and powdered sugar in a small bowl until it’s smooth and creamy. Set it aside while you make the cake. It’s nice to have it ready to go once the cake is done.
2. In your mug, add the flour, cinnamon, and brown sugar. Give it a little stir to combine everything.
3. Add the applesauce, oil, milk, and a dash of vanilla extract into the mug. Stir gently—just enough to blend all the ingredients together. Don’t overmix, or the cake might turn out dense!

Time to Cook:

Pop your mug into the microwave and cook for about 45 seconds. Depending on your microwave, you might need to add an extra 5-10 seconds. The cake should look set on top but still soft and spongy. Watch it closely; you don’t want it to overcook!

Finishing Touch:

Take your mug cake out and let it cool for a minute or so. Then, spread the cream cheese topping over the warm cake. The cream cheese gets a little melty, adding that extra creaminess with each bite. If you’re feeling fancy, you can sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon on top for a cozy look!

Making It Extra Special

I love having this mug cake with a dollop of whipped cream or even a small scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The cool creaminess with the warm, spiced cake is pure magic. My kids also go crazy when I add a few crushed walnuts for some crunch. And if it’s close to the holidays, I like to drizzle a bit of caramel sauce over the top for an extra indulgent treat. Perfect for a solo dessert or sharing with someone special!

Common Questions I Get

Final Thoughts on This Apple Cinnamon Mug Cake

I hope you give this cozy, comforting Apple Cinnamon Mug Cake a try! It’s simple, delicious, and perfect when you need a sweet treat in a hurry. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so don’t forget to leave a comment or share a picture if you make it! To me, cooking is all about sharing and enjoying those little moments of joy, and this recipe is definitely one of them.

Happy cooking!