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Cinnamon Roll Mug Cake - A Warm, Quick Treat for One

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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 2 minutes
Total Time 7 minutes
Servings: 1 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • For the cake:
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon fine salt
  • 3 tablespoons milk (dairy or unsweetened almond milk)
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter (or neutral oil)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • For the cinnamon swirl:
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon melted butter
  • For the icing (optional but recommended):
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1–2 teaspoons milk
  • 1–2 teaspoons cream cheese, softened (optional, for a tangy glaze)
  • 1/8 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method
 

  1. Choose the right mug. Use a microwave-safe mug that holds at least 12 ounces. This gives the cake room to rise without spilling over.
  2. Mix the dry ingredients. In the mug, whisk the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt with a fork until well combined.
  3. Add the wet ingredients. Stir in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla. Mix until the batter is smooth and no dry bits remain. Don’t overmix—just combine.
  4. Make the cinnamon swirl. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Stir until it’s syrupy.
  5. Create the swirl. Spoon dollops of the cinnamon mixture over the batter. Use a toothpick or the tip of a knife to gently swirl it through the batter in a figure-eight pattern. A few light swirls are enough.
  6. Microwave. Cook on high for 50–70 seconds. Start checking at 50 seconds. The cake should look set on top but still slightly glossy around the edges. Do not overcook—it will continue to firm up as it rests.
  7. Let it rest. Allow the cake to sit for 1–2 minutes. This helps the crumb set and stay tender.
  8. Make the icing. Mix powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, and cream cheese (if using) until smooth and drizzleable. Add a few more drops of milk if needed.
  9. Finish and serve. Drizzle the icing over the warm cake. Serve right away while it’s soft and fragrant.