The 10-Minute “Coffee Cake Mug Cake” I Make for Dessert AND Breakfast

The 10-Minute "Coffee Cake Mug Cake" I Make for Dessert AND Breakfast
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coffee mug cake in mug on table
Credit: Photo: Joe Lingeman; Food Styling: Ben Weiner

Coffee cake has always held a special place in my heart. It’s one of those baked goods that doesn’t always get the spotlight, but to me, it’s the true underdog of the dessert world. It’s comforting, reliable, and never fails to bring a smile to anyone’s face. This little mug cake version captures everything I adore about classic yet in a way that’s easy and approachable. This recipe truly feels like a hug in a mug, and anyone with a microwave should experience it. The cinnamon-swirled batter creates a fluffy, flavorful cake, while the streusel forms a buttery, crispy top, and if you take the extra step to drizzle on a quick glaze, it’s absolute perfection.

And the best part? It comes together in just a few minutes in the microwave. No waiting for the oven to preheat, no mixing bowls piling up in the sink, just nearly instant cozy comfort whenever the cravings strike. Everyone in my family loves this easy version, including my mom, who is a true coffee cake lover, and honestly, that’s why it’s become such a go-to for us. It’s perfect for a girls’ night in, a cozy fall afternoon, or just a sweet treat at the end of a long day.This mug cake is proof that coffee cake deserves more love. It’s warm, nostalgic, and unbelievably delicious, and I know once you try it, you’ll understand why me and my mom can’t stop making it.

Get the recipe: 10-Minute Coffee Cake Mug Cake 

What Makes Coffee Cake Mug Cake So Good

I’m a fall girl through and through, I live for the cozy, warm spices that fill the air during that time of year, and this mug cake delivers just that. In just minutes you get all the comforting flavors of a classic coffee cake. What could possibly be better than that? The cinnamon-flavored batter stays soft and fluffy while the buttery streusel adds a sweet, crumbly topping. A quick drizzle of icing takes it over the top, making it taste bakery worthy without the wait. Best of all, it’s single serve, so you get a warm coffee cake on demand whenever the craving hits. Making it the ultimate afternoon pick-me-up or late night sweet treat.

coffee mug cake in mug on table
Credit: Photo: Joe Lingeman; Food Styling: Ben Weiner

How to Coffee Cake Mug Cake

  1. Prepare your mug. Melt some butter right in your mug to kick things off.
  2. Make your batter. Stir in light brown sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until it’s all smooth. Then, mix in  flour, cinnamon, baking powder, and a pinch of salt just until you’ve got a nice batter.
  3. Make a quick streusel. Melt more butter, then stir in flour, sugar, cinnamon, and salt until it’s crumbly. Sprinkle that right on top of your batter.
  4. Microwave. Microwave until the cake is fluffy and mostly set (start checking around 2 minutes).
  5. Make the glaze. If you’re feeling extra, whip up a quick glaze with powdered sugar and a splash of milk, then drizzle it over the top. Grab a spoon and enjoy it warm, trust me it’s best fresh out the mug.

If You’re Making Coffee Cake Mug Cake, A Few Tips 

  • Start checking your mug cake at 2 minutes. Every microwave is different, and you don’t want to overcook it.
  • Don’t overmix the batter. Just stir until the flour disappears so your cake stays light and fluffy.