This Pumpkin Mug Cake is the perfect treat for those cozy nights when all you want is a warm dessert without the fuss of baking an entire cake. Imagine this: you’re curled up on the couch, maybe with a favorite book or a movie, and you suddenly get that craving for something sweet. The wonderful thing about this recipe is that it takes just a few minutes to whip up, and the result is a fluffy, spiced cake that tastes just like fall in a mug.
Jump to:
- Why This Recipe Works
- Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Mug Cake
- Ingredients for Pumpkin Mug Cake
- Whisking the Dry Ingredients
- Combining Wet Ingredients
- Microwaving the Cake
- Cooling and Serving Your Cake
- Serving Suggestions
- Tips for Success
- Variations
- Storage Tips
- Pairing Ideas
- FAQs
- More Easy Breakfast Recipes:
- 📖 Recipe Card
You don’t need a lot of fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a deliciously comforting dessert, so say goodbye to long baking times and hello to instant satisfaction. Whether you enjoy this on a chilly evening or as a quick snack, this Pumpkin Mug Cake will warm your heart and fill your belly. Let’s dive right into why this recipe works so well!
Why This Recipe Works
This Pumpkin Mug Cake recipe shines because it marries simplicity with quick preparation. You won’t find any complex steps here! Using common pantry staples, like flour and sugar, makes it easy for anyone to throw together. Plus, the microbake method takes mere minutes. You can enjoy a delightful treat that satisfies your sweet tooth without a long commitment; it’s perfect for a swift dessert fix or an afternoon indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Mug Cake
Just picture it: a warm, spiced cake that captures the essence of fall, ready in less than five minutes. The beauty of this Pumpkin Mug Cake lies in its comforting flavors, which can easily turn your day around. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a cozy moment. Plus, it invites all sorts of creativity! Feel free to experiment with toppings or add-ins to make it uniquely yours, whether you like a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of nuts.

Ingredients for Pumpkin Mug Cake
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons light brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream
- ¼ cup canned pure pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling)
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
Whisking the Dry Ingredients

Now, let’s start with the dry ingredients! Grab a small bowl or a big 10-ounce mug. In it, combine the flour, light brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. Whisk until everything is evenly mixed. This crucial step ensures your cake has a consistent taste throughout, so don’t rush it.
Combining Wet Ingredients
Next up, it’s time to mix in the good stuff! Add the melted butter, heavy cream, pure pumpkin, lightly beaten egg, and vanilla extract to your dry mixture. Stir it all together until the batter is smooth and free of lumps. You want a nice, even mixture that captures the delightful essence of pumpkin spice. Imagine the warm, comforting aroma wafting from your mug!
Microwaving the Cake
Now, place your mug in the microwave and cook it on high for about 3 minutes. You might want to check it halfway through, as it can rise over the rim (don’t worry, this happens!). After the full cooking time, test it out by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean, indicating your Pumpkin Mug Cake is ready to enjoy!
Cooling and Serving Your Cake
Once it’s done, let the Pumpkin Mug Cake cool for a few minutes. It’s best served warm! To elevate your treat, sprinkle some powdered sugar on top or add a swirl of whipped cream. And don’t forget a dash of pumpkin pie spice for that seasonal flair. Your warm, spiced cake is now ready to be devoured!
Serving Suggestions
For an extra touch of decadence, pair your Pumpkin Mug Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a generous dollop of whipped cream. Both options complement the warmth of the cake beautifully. And if you really want to treat yourself, enjoy it alongside a cozy cup of chai or coffee. It’s a match made in autumn heaven!
Tips for Success
- Keep in mind that microwave wattages vary, so adjust the cooking time accordingly. You might need a little more or less time depending on your microwave.
- For an added burst of flavor, consider mixing in chocolate chips or nuts before microwaving your cake. It takes the indulgence factor up a notch!
Variations
Feeling adventurous? You can add a tablespoon of chocolate chips for a pumpkin chocolate chip mug cake twist. Alternatively, if you want to switch things up entirely, substitute the pumpkin with mashed bananas for a delightful banana mug cake variation. Both options are delicious!
Storage Tips
This Pumpkin Mug Cake is truly at its best when enjoyed fresh. However, if you do have leftovers, store any remaining cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Simply reheat it in the microwave for a quick treat that’s almost as good as fresh!
Pairing Ideas
To complement the rich flavors of your Pumpkin Mug Cake, drizzle some caramel sauce on top for an extra sweet touch. You could also serve it alongside candied pecans for a nice crunch. For those feeling indulgent, a scoop of cinnamon ice cream pairs wonderfully for a divine dessert experience.

FAQs
What type of pumpkin should I use for this mug cake?
Make sure to use canned pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling. It will yield the best flavor and texture.
Can I make this mug cake without a microwave?
Absolutely! You can bake it in a small oven-safe dish at 350°F for about 15–20 minutes.
Is this Pumpkin Mug Cake gluten-free?
If you’d like a gluten-free version, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
How can I make this recipe richer?
For an extra creamy texture, mix in a tablespoon of cream cheese into the batter.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to slightly increase the cooking time and use a larger dish if needed.
This quick and delightful Pumpkin Mug Cake will surely become your favorite go-to for a warm, comforting treat. Perfect for any occasion, its simplicity and delicious flavors bring coziness into your life. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or with friends, this mug cake promises happiness in every bite!
More Easy Breakfast Recipes:
- Smoked Salmon Breakfast Bagel
- Snickerdoodle Mug Cake
- Peanut Butter Mug Cake
- Skinny Pumpkin Quinoa Muffins
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Pumpkin Mug Cake
This Pumpkin Mug Cake is a cozy, warm treat that’s perfect for chilly nights. With its spiced flavor and quick prep time, you can indulge in a comforting dessert in under five minutes.
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons light brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream
- ¼ cup canned pure pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling)
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Combine dry ingredients in a bowl or mug and whisk together.
- Add melted butter, heavy cream, pumpkin, egg, and vanilla, and stir until smooth.
- Microwave on high for 3 minutes, checking halfway through.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Adjust cooking time based on microwave wattage.
Mix in chocolate chips or nuts for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Microwave
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 20
- Sodium: 300
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 8
- Unsaturated Fat: 5
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 45
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 6
- Cholesterol: 80