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Delicious cinnamon roll mug cake topped with icing in a white mug.

Cinnamon Roll Mug Cake

A quick and easy mug cake that tastes like a delicious cinnamon roll, perfect for busy evenings and satisfying sweet cravings in just a few minutes.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 2 minutes
Total Time 7 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 1 serving
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

Essentials

  • 6 tablespoons plain flour, heat-treated Heat-treating the flour is quick and keeps the cake safe to eat when not fully baked in the center.
  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar Sweetens the cake base. Reduce to 2 tablespoons if less sweet is preferred.
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder Gives lift so the mug cake is soft and not dense.
  • 60 ml water Keeps the batter thin enough to microwave through.
  • 40 ml oil (or melted butter) Oil keeps the texture moist; melted butter adds richer flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract A small touch goes a long way for that warm, homey aroma.
  • 1/2 tablespoon melted butter For the cinnamon swirl layer that mimics a true cinnamon roll.
  • 1 tablespoon light brown sugar Adds a deeper, caramel-like sweetness to the swirl.
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon The main flavor for the swirl.
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar + 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon Stirred together for the final cinnamon sugar topping.

Optional Add-ons

  • 2-3 tablespoons softened cream cheese Mix with 1-2 teaspoons milk and a pinch of powdered sugar for a quick glaze.
  • 1 teaspoon chopped walnuts or pecans Sprinkle for crunch; leave out for nut-free households.
  • few tablespoons mini chocolate chips Optional for kids who love chocolate with cinnamon.
  • few pieces raspberries or sliced banana Press into the top before microwaving for a fruity note.
  • 1 spoonful maple syrup or honey Drizzle over the finished cake for added sweetness.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Heat-treat the flour: Microwave 6 tablespoons of flour in a bowl or directly in the mug on medium for 1 minute 30 seconds, stirring once or twice.
  • Let the flour cool fully before using to avoid a raw taste.
  • Mix the dry base in the mug: Add 3 tablespoons sugar and 1/2 teaspoon baking powder to the cooled flour.
  • Pour in 60 ml water, 40 ml oil (or melted butter), and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
  • In a separate bowl, mix 1/2 tablespoon melted butter, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon to create the cinnamon swirl mixture.
  • Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon mixture on top of the batter and gently swirl.

Cooking

  • Combine 1 teaspoon granulated sugar and 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon, sprinkling it over the top of the batter.
  • Microwave for 1-2 minutes on high, checking at 55-65 seconds for doneness.
  • Let the mug cake cool for 1-2 minutes before serving.

Notes

Serve directly in the mug for minimal cleanup. For extra flavor, add a drizzle of cream cheese glaze or melted butter on top.
Keyword Cinnamon Roll, Easy Recipe, Kid-Friendly, Mug Cake, Quick Dessert