Introduction
There are few things more comforting than a warm, spiced apple dessert, but sometimes, baking an entire pie or cake is simply too much effort for a single craving. Enter the Apple Mug Cake: a delightful, single-serving treat that delivers all the cozy flavors of autumn in under three minutes. This recipe is perfect for late-night indulgences or a quick fix when you need a taste of homemade goodness without the mess. It’s a simple, versatile dessert that requires only basic pantry staples and a standard microwave.
Ingredients
- All-Purpose Flour: 3 tablespoons (approx. 30g)
- Brown Sugar (packed): 2 tablespoons (approx. 25g)
- Baking Powder: ¼ teaspoon (1g)
- Ground Cinnamon: ¼ teaspoon
- Pinch of Salt
- Milk (whole or skim): 2 tablespoons (30 ml)
- Melted Butter or Neutral Oil: 1 tablespoon (15 ml)
- Vanilla Extract: ¼ teaspoon
- Finely Diced Apple (peeled): 2 tablespoons (approx. 20g)
- Optional Topping: 1 teaspoon extra brown sugar and a dash of cinnamon for sprinkling
Step-by-step Preparation
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Choose a microwave-safe mug (at least 12-14 ounces to prevent overflow). Add the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt directly into the mug. Use a small fork to thoroughly mix the dry ingredients until they are evenly distributed, breaking up any clumps of brown sugar.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the milk, melted butter (or oil), and vanilla extract. Using the same fork, mix the batter until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few small lumps of flour are acceptable, but you want a smooth, thick batter consistency.
- Fold in Apples: Gently stir in the finely diced apple pieces. Ensure the apple pieces are small (pea-sized) so they cook through during the short microwaving process. If desired, sprinkle the optional extra brown sugar and cinnamon mixture on top of the batter for a caramelized crust.
- Microwave the Cake: Place the mug in the center of the microwave. Cook on high power for 60 to 90 seconds. Tip: Start with 60 seconds and check the consistency. The cake is done when the top looks set, springs back slightly when touched, and no longer appears wet. Microwave wattage varies greatly; if the cake is still wet, continue cooking in 10-second intervals.
- Cool and Serve: Carefully remove the hot mug using oven mitts. Allow the cake to cool in the mug for 2-3 minutes before enjoying. This allows the internal heat to finish cooking the center and prevents accidental burns.
Nutritional Information
This single-serving Apple Mug Cake typically contains approximately 280-320 calories, depending on the type of milk and fat used. It provides a moderate source of carbohydrates and a small amount of dietary fiber, primarily from the apple pieces. While it is a treat, using fresh apples adds vitamins and minerals, making it a slightly healthier alternative to store-bought pastries.
Storage
Mug cakes are designed to be enjoyed immediately. The texture and moisture degrade rapidly once cooled, making leftovers generally unappetizing. If you absolutely must store it, cover the mug tightly with plastic wrap and keep it at room temperature for no more than 4 hours. Reheating is not recommended, as the cake tends to become rubbery and dry in the microwave the second time around.
Conclusion
The Apple Mug Cake is the definition of instant dessert gratification. To elevate this simple treat, we highly recommend serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a drizzle of homemade salted caramel sauce. For variations, try adding a tablespoon of chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch, or swap out the cinnamon for a dash of nutmeg and allspice to deepen the autumnal flavor profile. Enjoy your quick, cozy, and perfectly portioned apple delight!