Description
This is the ultimate quick-fix dessert that satisfies a craving almost instantly! This recipe uses simple pantry staples to create a delicious single-serving dessert, from the softened apples at the bottom to the buttery, spiced topping.
Ingredients
- to Crisp Apple, thinly sliced
- tablespoons Salted Butter, divided
- tablespoons Brown Sugar, divided
- cup Milk
- teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract
- cup All-Purpose Flour
- teaspoon Baking Powder
- teaspoon Apple Pie Spice, divided
For Garnish (optional): Caramel Sauce & Vanilla Ice Cream
Instructions
- Soften the Apples: In a large, microwave-safe mug (at least 12 oz), combine half your apple slices with ½ tbsp butter, ½ tbsp brown sugar, and ⅛ tsp apple pie spice. Microwave for 30 seconds to soften the apples and create a caramelized base.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a separate small bowl, melt 2 tbsp of butter. Stir in 2 tbsp of brown sugar, the milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Create the Cake Batter: To the same small bowl, add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and ¼ tsp of apple pie spice. Mix gently with a fork until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Layer the Cake: Pour the batter evenly over the softened apples in your mug. Arrange the remaining apple slices on top. Sprinkle with the remaining ½ tbsp of brown sugar and ⅛ tsp of apple pie spice, then place the final ½ tbsp of butter on top.
- Microwave to Perfection: Microwave for 1 minute 30 seconds to 2 minutes. The cake is done when it has puffed up and the center looks set. Add 15-second increments if needed.
- Garnish and Serve: Let cool for a minute (it will be very hot!). Top with an optional drizzle of caramel sauce and a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Enjoy immediately!
Notes
- Don’t Overmix: Be careful not to overmix the batter! A few small lumps are okay. Overmixing can result in a tough, rubbery cake.
- Microwave Wattage Varies: Cooking time can vary. Start with the lower time and add 15-second increments if the center isn’t set.
- Use a Large Mug: A mug that holds at least 12 ounces is recommended to prevent the batter from overflowing as it puffs up during cooking.
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Snack, Mug Cake
- Method: Microwave
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mug cake
- Calories: 660kcal
- Sugar: 40g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 1.5g
- Carbohydrates: 79g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 95mg

