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Coffee Cake in a Mug

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Craving something sweet but short on time? This coffee cake in a mug comes together in minutes with simple pantry staples. It’s warm, buttery, and topped with a sweet cinnamon crumble that bakes up soft and fluffy. Perfect for breakfast or a quick snack, this single-serve treat is ready in just a few minutes!
This easy recipe walks you through every step, so you get perfect results every time. Follow the step-by-step photos and directions below for a foolproof mug cake. We also include pro tips, tricks, and answers to the most frequently asked questions to make sure yours turns out just right!

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You can make cake in a mug in just a few minutes with simple ingredients. It’s warm, buttery, and topped with a sweet cinnamon crumble that melts into every bite.
This single-serve treat is perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a quick dessert. Skip the oven and enjoy a fresh-baked cake in no time!
Ingredients for Coffee Cake in a Mug

What you'll need to make this Coffee Cake in a Mug:
For The Cake Layer
- 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon of cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon of baking powder
- 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon of light brown sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon of melted butter
- 3 tablespoons of whole milk
The Streusel Topping
- 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon of light brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon of melted butter
For The Glaze
- 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon of milk
Substitutions and Additions
Make your mug cake your own with fun ingredient swaps and tasty add-ins! These easy tweaks give your mug cake a fresh twist. Here are some of the best substitutions and additions:
- Add vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla makes the cake taste richer and more like traditional coffee cake.
- Substitute cinnamon: Try pumpkin spice or apple pie spice for a seasonal twist.
- Add chopped nuts: Sprinkle in pecans or walnuts for a crunchy topping that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon crumble.
How to Make Coffee Cake in a Mug
Follow along with our pictures and step-by-step instructions to make the best coffee cake mug. Check out the tips and tricks below to get a soft, buttery cake with the perfect cinnamon crumble. Grab your mug, and let’s get started!
Pro Tip
Do not double the ingredients in one mug. If you’d like a larger mug cake, make two or more in separate mugs.
FIRST STEP: Stir together the dry ingredients in a 6 to 8-ounce microwave-safe mug.
Pro Tip
The coffee cake batter will double, possibly even triple in the microwave oven. I would recommend using a 6 to 8-ounce mug so that the batter doesn’t spill over the sides of the mug.

SECOND STEP: Add milk and melted butter to the mug and stir to make a batter.
Pro Tip
The batter ingredients can be made right in the mug itself. I like to stir the dry ingredients together first to make sure they’re well combined. Then mix in the wet ingredients.

THIRD STEP: In a separate bowl, use your fingers or a fork to mix together the streusel ingredients to form a crumble.
Sprinkle the crumble over the top of the batter in the mug. Use a knife or fork to gently swirl the streusel just into the top of the batter.

FOURTH STEP: Microwave the mug cake for 1 minute to 1 minute 15 seconds.
FIFTH STEP: Whisk together the glaze ingredients in a small bowl and drizzle over the mug cake.

How To Serve Coffee Cake in a Mug
You can serve mug coffee cake in so many fun ways! Whether it’s a cozy morning, a sweet snack, or a special occasion, this warm treat always hits the spot. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy it:
- Cozy Breakfast Treat: Start your day with a warm, buttery coffee cake and a fresh cup of iced coffee or frozen hot chocolate. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for chilly mornings. Pair it with homemade whipped coffee or a spiced latte for an extra cozy touch.
- Afternoon Pick-Me-Up: Need a little energy boost? This mug cake makes a great afternoon snack when you need something sweet in a hurry. Enjoy it with a cool iced tea or a party punch for the perfect combo.
- Easy Dessert for One: Skip the oven and make a fresh, homemade dessert in minutes! This single-serve treat is great for late-night cravings or a last-minute sweet fix. Serve it with a scoop of no-churn pumpkin ice cream or drizzle with chocolate sauce for an extra treat.

Why You'll Love This Recipe for Coffee Cake in a Mug
Coffee cake in a mug is a favorite for so many reasons. It’s quick, easy, and packed with warm cinnamon goodness. Whether you need breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this single-serve cake delivers every time.
- Fast and Easy: You can make this cake in just a few minutes with simple ingredients you probably already have.
- Perfect for Any Time of Day: Enjoy it for breakfast, a midday treat, or a late-night sweet fix without any hassle.
- No Oven Needed: Skip the baking and make a fresh, warm cake right in your microwave with zero fuss.
- Soft and Buttery: Every bite is moist, rich, and topped with a sweet cinnamon crumble that melts right in.
- Single-Serve Convenience: No need to share—this personal-sized cake is made just for you.
- Minimal Cleanup: One mug, one spoon, and no piles of dishes to wash after.
If you love easy, homemade treats, this mug cake will become your new go-to!

Recipe FAQ
Can I make coffee cake in a mug without eggs?
Yes, you can make coffee cake in a mug without eggs. Replace the egg with 1 tablespoon of applesauce or yogurt for moisture. However, the texture might not be the same.
Why is my mug cake dry?
Your coffee cake may be dry if it’s overcooked. Microwave in short bursts and check for doneness early.
Can I use water instead of milk?
Yes, you can use water instead of milk, but milk makes it softer and more flavorful.
Why didn’t my mug cake rise?
Your coffee cake may not rise if the baking powder is expired. Always check freshness before using.
Can I mix everything in the mug?
Yes, you can mix everything directly in the mug, but using a small bowl first helps blend ingredients evenly for better texture.
How do I know when my mug cake is done?
Your coffee cake in a mug is done when the top looks set and springs back when lightly touched. Avoid overcooking for the best texture.

Serving FAQ
What’s the best way to serve coffee cake in a mug?
Serve your cake warm, straight from the microwave. Let it cool slightly before digging in for the best texture.
Should I eat coffee cake in a mug with a spoon or fork?
A spoon works best for scooping up every soft, buttery bite, but a fork will also get the job done.
Can I top coffee cake in a mug with anything extra?
Yes! Add whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a drizzle of icing for an extra sweet and cozy touch.
Is coffee cake in a mug good for breakfast?
Yes, it makes a quick and easy breakfast when you need something warm and satisfying in minutes.
Can kids eat coffee cake in a mug?
Yes, kids love this soft and buttery treat! Let it cool slightly before serving to avoid any burns from the hot mug.
Can I double the recipe to serve more than one person?
Make separate mug cakes instead of doubling in one mug. Each cake needs space to rise for the best texture.

Storage FAQ
Follow the tips and tricks below for the best way to store coffee cake in a mug. Whether you want to make it ahead or keep leftovers fresh, these simple steps help keep it soft and delicious.
Can I make coffee cake in a mug ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the ingredients in your mug and store it in the fridge for up to a day. When ready, microwave as directed.
What’s the best way to store leftover coffee cake in a mug?
Since this cake is best fresh, it’s better to eat it right away. If needed, cover and refrigerate for up to one day.
Can I freeze coffee cake in a mug?
Freezing isn’t recommended since the texture changes after thawing. It’s better to make a fresh mug cake when you want one.
How do I reheat coffee cake in a mug?
Reheat in the microwave for ten to fifteen seconds until warm. Be careful not to overheat, or it may dry out.
Can I reheat coffee cake in a mug more than once?
No, reheating multiple times makes the cake tough and dry. It’s best to enjoy it right after the first reheat.
Can I store an uncooked mug cake for later?
Yes, mix the batter and cover the mug tightly. Refrigerate for up to a day, then microwave when ready to eat.

Coffee Cake in a Mug
Ingredients
Cake
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
- Pinch salt
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 3 tablespoons whole milk
Streusel
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon melted butter
Glaze
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon milk
DIRECTIONS
- Stir together the dry ingredients in a 6 to 8-ounce microwave-safe mug.
- Add the milk and melted butter to the mug and stir to make a batter.
- In a separate bowl, use your fingers or a fork to mix together the streusel ingredients to form a crumble. Sprinkle the crumble over the top of the batter in the mug. Use a knife or fork to gently swirl the streusel just into the top of the batter.
- Microwave for 1 minute to 1 minute 15 seconds.
- Whisk together glaze ingredients in a small bowl and drizzle over the mug cake.
Notes
- Do not double the ingredients in one mug. If you’d like a larger mug cake, make 2 or more in separate mugs.
- The coffee cake batter will double, possibly even triple in the microwave oven. I would recommend using a 6 to 8-ounce mug so that the batter doesn’t spill over the sides of the mug.
- The batter ingredients can be made right in the mug itself. I like to stir the dry ingredients together first to make sure they’re well combined. Then mix in the wet ingredients.







Comments
Marcus Rene says
Honestly expected it to taste like a microwave cake, but this was legit decent. Texture was fluffy, not rubbery. Good recipe for a mug cake!