Buttery Apple Spice Mug Cake Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it’s the perfect lazy-day treat, giving me all the yummy comfort of a classic apple cake without having to leave my cozy couch. Plus, I can whip it up in minutes, making it my ultimate go-to for satisfying those late-night cravings with just a microwave and a mug! 🍏☕️

The Buttery Apple Spice Mug Cake is uncomplicated and cozy. It has just 4 tablespoons of flour, a hint of cinnamon, and nutmeg for a warm, delightful flavor.

But the real star here is the applesauce, which gives the mug cake an almost cake-like texture—and a lovely, apple-spiced dessert. To make it even better, add the combination of butter and vanilla, and you have a rich treat that is perfect for this season.

Ingredients

Regular flour: Supplies structure and texture; a supplier of carbohydrates.

Sugar that has been granulated: Adds sweetness and helps to keep moisture in.

Leavening agent that makes the mug cake fluffy: Baking powder.

Cinnamon: Imparts a warm, spicy flavor; might have antioxidants.

Milk: Supplies moisture and tenderness; adds a hint of creaminess.

Butter that has not been salted: Contributes opulence and a sumptuous buttery taste.

Applesauce/Apple: Contributes moisture, natural sweetness, and a touch of fruitiness.

Brown sugar: Keeps the cake moist; provides a deep, caramel-like sweetness.

Ingredient Quantities

• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt
• 3 tablespoons milk
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons applesauce or finely chopped apple
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar

Instructions

1. In a mug safe for the microwave, combine 4 tablespoons of flour (all-purpose), 2 tablespoons of sugar (granulated), 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/8 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt to form a dry mix. Mix until well combined.

2. In the mug, add 3 tablespoons of milk, 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dry ingredients, then stir until a smooth batter forms.

3. Add 2 tablespoons of applesauce or very finely chopped apple to the batter, mixing thoroughly so that the batter is uniform throughout.

4. In the end, top the batter with 1 teaspoon of brown sugar, sprinkling it evenly over the surface, so that it is distributed evenly across the top. When this bakes, the brown sugar will melt and create a lovely caramelized finish.

5. Put the mug in the microwave. Cook on high for approximately 1 to
1.5 minutes. The cake is done when it has risen and is set in the center.

6. Remove the mug from the microwave with care, and let the cake cool for 1 to 2 minutes.

7. If you desire an accompaniment that is flavorful yet simple, you can drizzle melted butter and sprinkle cinnamon over the dish as an optional topping.

8. Relish your reassuring, warm, and cozy mug cake of buttery apple spice, which is best enjoyed straight from the mug with a spoon.

9. Exercise caution because the mug may be hot; utilize a cloth or oven mitt if required.

10. Preserve any uneaten portions by covering the mug with plastic wrap and chilling it in the refrigerator for up to a day, though it is most delicious freshly made!

Equipment Needed

1. Microwave-safe mug
2. Measuring spoons
3. Microwave
4. Spoon for mixing
5. Microwave-safe dish or small bowl (for melting butter)
6. Oven mitt or cloth (for handling hot items)
7. Plastic wrap (for storage, optional)

FAQ

• Can I use a substitute for unsalted butter?Absolutely, salted butter is an option—the recipe’s pinch of salt can be reduced. And plant-based butters are a go-to for a vegan alternative; these vegan bakes can serve up just as well.
• Can I make this mug cake gluten-free?Certainly, just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it’s a 1:1 substitute for the most pleasing results.
• Is there an alternative to applesauce?Yes, you can use finely chopped apples, or you may substitute any fruit puree you like.
• How should I store leftover mug cake?Mug cakes are most delicious when eaten shortly after they are made. However, if you find yourself with extras, you can cover them and store them in the refrigerator for up to one day. Just be sure to reheat them in the microwave before digging in.
• Can this be made dairy-free?Certainly! You can use almond or soy milk in place of dairy milk, and substitute a non-dairy butter alternative for the butter called for in the recipe.
• What kind of mug should I use?Use a mug that can hold at least 12 ounces and is safe for the microwave, to prevent overflow during cooking.
• How long should I microwave the mug cake?Power your microwave for roughly 1 to 1.5 minutes, based on how strong your microwave is. Less time is recommended to start, as it helps you steer clear of an excessive cooking outcome.

Substitutions and Variations

All-purpose flour: You can swap it out for the same amount of whole wheat flour or a gluten-free, all-purpose flour blend.
Sugar in granulated form: Swap for an equal amount of coconut sugar or light brown sugar.
Milk: Use almond milk, soy milk, or any other non-dairy milk of your choice in the same amount.
Butter (not salted), the same amount replaced with the same amount of coconut oil or a neutral vegetable oil like canola.
Use pear sauce or finely chopped pear as an alternative to applesauce or chopped apple.

Pro Tips

1. Use Fresh Apples If opting for chopped apples instead of applesauce, make sure they are finely diced and fresh to add a fresher texture and enhanced flavor to the cake.

2. Enhance Flavor with Spices Consider adding a tiny pinch of cardamom for an extra layer of warmth and flavor, which complements the cinnamon and nutmeg well.

3. Adjust Microwave Time Microwave strengths vary, so keep an eye on the mug cake after 1 minute, checking for doneness. Overcooking can result in a dry cake, while undercooking can leave it soggy.

4. Experiment with Toppings After the cake is cooked, try adding a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top to complement the warm, spiced flavors.

5. Make It Moister For a moister cake, consider adding an extra tablespoon of applesauce to the batter, as this can also enhance the apple flavor.