Description: This single-serving Coffee Cake in a Mug recipe delivers all the warm, comforting flavors of a classic coffee cake in minutes. Perfect for a quick breakfast, a sweet afternoon treat, or a late-night craving, this mug cake is easy, convenient, and utterly delicious. With layers of moist cake, crunchy streusel, and sweet glaze, you’ll wonder why you haven’t been making mug cakes all along.
Ingredients:
- Cake:
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar, packed
- Pinch salt
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (unsalted or salted, your preference)
- 3 tablespoons whole milk (or your preferred milk alternative)
- Streusel:
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar, packed
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon melted butter (unsalted or salted, your preference)
- Glaze:
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon milk (or your preferred milk alternative)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Mug: Select a 6 to 8-ounce microwave-safe mug. Ensure it’s clean and dry, ready to be your mixing bowl and baking vessel all in one. A mug of this size provides ample space for the cake to rise without overflowing during microwaving. Smaller mugs may lead to spillage and a less-than-ideal final product.
Step 2: Combine Dry Cake Ingredients: In the mug, meticulously combine the dry ingredients for the cake. This includes the all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, baking powder, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Use a small whisk or a fork to thoroughly mix these ingredients together. The goal is to ensure even distribution of the baking powder and spices, which contributes to a uniform rise and consistent flavor throughout the cake. Pay special attention to breaking up any clumps of brown sugar to prevent pockets of overly sweet or dense areas.
Step 3: Incorporate Wet Cake Ingredients: Add the melted butter and whole milk (or milk alternative) to the mug, on top of the dry ingredients. Using the same whisk or fork, gently but thoroughly mix the wet and dry components until a smooth batter forms. Be mindful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough cake. The batter should be relatively lump-free, with a consistency similar to pancake batter. Scrape down the sides of the mug as needed to ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Step 4: Prepare the Streusel Topping: In a separate small bowl, combine the streusel ingredients: all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter. Using your fingers or a fork, mix these ingredients together to form a crumble. The mixture should resemble coarse crumbs, with the butter evenly distributed throughout. The streusel is what adds that delightful textural contrast and warm, spiced flavor that elevates the coffee cake.
Step 5: Assemble and Swirl: Sprinkle the prepared streusel crumble evenly over the top of the cake batter in the mug. Then, using a knife or fork, gently swirl the streusel into the top of the batter. This swirling action helps to distribute the streusel throughout the upper layer of the cake, creating pockets of sweet, crunchy goodness. Be careful not to overmix, as this can cause the streusel to sink completely into the batter, losing its textural appeal.
Step 6: Microwave to Perfection: Carefully place the mug in the center of your microwave. Microwave on high power for 1 minute to 1 minute 15 seconds. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the power of your microwave, so it’s important to keep a close eye on the cake as it cooks. The cake is done when it has risen and appears set, with the center no longer looking wet or batter-like. If the cake seems undercooked after 1 minute 15 seconds, continue microwaving in 5-second intervals until it reaches the desired consistency. Overcooking can result in a dry, rubbery cake, so err on the side of caution.
Step 7: Craft the Glaze: While the cake is microwaving, prepare the glaze in a separate small bowl. Combine the powdered sugar and milk, whisking until smooth and creamy. The glaze should be thin enough to drizzle easily but thick enough to cling to the cake. Adjust the amount of milk as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
Step 8: Glaze and Enjoy: Once the cake is cooked, carefully remove it from the microwave. Allow it to cool for a minute or two to prevent burning your mouth. Drizzle the prepared glaze generously over the top of the mug cake. The glaze will add a touch of sweetness and visual appeal, completing the coffee cake experience. Serve immediately and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of your homemade Coffee Cake in a Mug.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Coffee Cake in a Mug recipe is a game-changer for anyone craving a sweet treat without the fuss of baking an entire cake. It’s incredibly quick, taking just minutes to prepare and cook, making it ideal for busy mornings, late-night cravings, or impromptu dessert desires. The single-serving portion size eliminates the temptation to overindulge and reduces food waste. Plus, the ingredients are readily available in most pantries, making it a convenient option any time. The warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon, brown sugar, and butter combine to create a truly satisfying treat that rivals its full-sized counterpart. It’s also endlessly customizable – add nuts, chocolate chips, or other toppings to suit your personal preferences. Ultimately, this recipe is a testament to the fact that deliciousness doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming.
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy it warm straight from the mug with a spoon.
- Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a classic coffee cake experience.
- Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra decadent treat.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream for a light and airy touch.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or chopped nuts for added flavor and texture.
Tips:
- Microwave Power Matters: Cooking times can vary significantly depending on your microwave’s wattage. Start with 1 minute and adjust as needed to avoid overcooking.
- Mug Size is Key: A 6-8 ounce mug is ideal. Smaller mugs may overflow, while larger mugs might lead to a flatter, less moist cake.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can develop gluten, resulting in a tough cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Customize Your Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different spices, extracts, or toppings. A dash of nutmeg, a splash of vanilla extract, or a handful of chocolate chips can add a unique twist.
- Milk Alternatives Work Well: If you’re dairy-free, almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk can be substituted for whole milk with minimal impact on the final result.
- Freshness is Best: Mug cakes are best enjoyed immediately after cooking. They tend to dry out quickly, so don’t try to save them for later.
Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 1-1.25 minutes Total Time: 6-7 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Approximate, may vary depending on specific ingredients used)
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 4-5g
- Sodium: 150-200mg
Conclusion:
The Coffee Cake in a Mug recipe is a testament to the power of simplicity. It offers a quick, easy, and delicious way to satisfy your sweet cravings without the need for extensive baking or a multitude of ingredients. Its customizable nature and single-serving portion size make it a versatile and convenient option for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe is sure to become a go-to for those moments when you need a little bit of comfort in a mug. Embrace the convenience, enjoy the flavor, and savor the simplicity of this delightful treat.
Questions and Answers:
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be gluten-free. Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure that the blend you use is designed for baking and contains xanthan gum or a similar binding agent to help with the structure of the cake. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so no other changes are needed.
- What if I don’t have light brown sugar?
- If you don’t have light brown sugar on hand, you can substitute it with granulated sugar or dark brown sugar. Granulated sugar will provide sweetness but will lack the molasses notes of brown sugar. Dark brown sugar will offer a richer, more intense flavor. You can also make your own light brown sugar by mixing 1 tablespoon of molasses with 1 cup of granulated sugar. For this recipe, use a small proportion of this mixture as needed.
- My mug cake turned out dry. What did I do wrong?
- A dry mug cake is often a sign of overcooking. Microwaves vary in power, so it’s crucial to monitor the cake closely. Start with the recommended cooking time and adjust as needed. If the cake seems dry after the initial cooking time, try reducing the time by 5-10 seconds on your next attempt. Also, ensure you are using the correct mug size (6-8 ounces) as a larger mug might lead to uneven cooking and dryness. Avoid overmixing the batter, as this can also contribute to a tougher texture.
- Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to this recipe?
- Absolutely! Adding nuts or chocolate chips is a great way to customize your Coffee Cake in a Mug. Simply fold in a tablespoon or two of chopped nuts (such as pecans, walnuts, or almonds) or chocolate chips (milk, dark, or semi-sweet) to the batter before microwaving. This will add extra flavor, texture, and visual appeal to your mug cake.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time and microwave it later?
- While it’s possible to prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator, it’s not recommended. The baking powder will start to lose its effectiveness over time, resulting in a less fluffy cake. Additionally, the texture may change as the batter sits. For the best results, prepare the batter and microwave it immediately. The mug cake is so quick to make that it’s best enjoyed fresh.
