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This buttery apple spice mug cake is a cozy little dessert that comes together in just minutes. Soft apples meld with warm spices and rich butter for a comforting treat that feels like a hug in a mug. It’s perfect when you want something sweet without the fuss of baking an entire cake.
Single serving size so you can enjoy just what you want without leftovers
Ingredients List
- Small apple: thinly sliced use a sweet and crisp variety like Honeycrisp or Fuji for the best texture and flavor
- Salted butter: adds richness and helps create a tender cake consistency
- Brown sugar: gives depth and a subtle caramel note enhancing the spice
- Apple pie spice: brings classic fall warmth choose a blend with cinnamon nutmeg and cloves
- Milk: helps keep the cake moist whole milk or your favorite milk alternative works well
- Vanilla extract: adds aromatic sweetness that lifts the flavors
- All-purpose flour: forms the cake base sift it lightly for a lighter texture
- Baking powder: ensures the cake rises nicely making it fluffy
Cooking Steps
- Prepare the Apples:
- In a microwave-safe mug, place half of the apple slices with half a tablespoon of butter brown sugar and a bit of apple pie spice. Microwave for 30 seconds until the apples soften and release their juice.
- Combine the Batter:
- Melt two tablespoons of butter in a bowl then stir in brown sugar milk and vanilla extract until smooth. Add the flour baking powder and remaining apple pie spice then mix gently until the batter is fully combined.
- Assemble the Mug Cake:
- Pour the batter over the softened apples in the mug. Layer the remaining apple slices on top then sprinkle brown sugar and apple pie spice. Finish by dotting with the last bit of butter.
- Cook the Cake:
- Microwave the mug cake for 1 minute 30 seconds to 2 minutes. The cake should puff up and feel set but still moist inside.
- Add Final Touches:
- If desired drizzle with caramel sauce or add a scoop of vanilla ice cream to elevate the flavors and texture.
Flexible toppings allow you to customize for extra indulgence
Best Storage Practices
This mug cake is best enjoyed fresh and warm. If you have leftovers store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day. Warm gently in the microwave before serving to restore softness. Avoid overcooking when reheating to keep the texture moist.
Ingredient Swaps
For a dairy-free version use coconut oil in place of butter and a plant-based milk alternative. Try maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different natural sweetness. Use pear slices instead of apples for a softer fruit texture and subtle change in flavor.
Serving Pairings
This mug cake shines with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of salted caramel sauce. Serve alongside a cup of hot tea or coffee for a comforting break. Top with a sprinkle of toasted chopped nuts for added crunch and nutty flavor.
This mug cake recipe is a small but mighty treat perfect for when you want that cozy homemade feeling without much effort. It always makes me smile to see how something so simple can be so satisfying.
Frequently Asked Cooking Questions
- → What type of apple works best for the dessert?
Firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold up well, providing a nice balance of tartness and sweetness that complements the buttery batter.
- → Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted butter?
Yes, unsalted butter works fine; just add a small pinch of salt to balance the flavors if preferred.
- → How can I check if the cake is fully cooked in the microwave?
The cake should be puffy and set in the center without any wet batter. Cooking times vary by microwave, so watch closely near the end.
- → What is apple pie spice made of?
Apple pie spice is a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and sometimes cloves, providing warm, aromatic notes essential to the dessert's flavor.
- → Are there suggested toppings to enhance the dessert?
Caramel sauce and a scoop of vanilla ice cream add richness and contrast beautifully with the warm, spiced cake.