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We are absolutely loving this gingerbread mug cake for the holidays! It’s festive, delicious, and packed with warm gingerbread spices that make it the perfect holiday treat. Whether you’re craving something sweet and cozy or want a quick, effortless dessert that’s ready in minutes, this mug cake couldn’t be easier to make.
We’ve made this gingerbread mug cake so many times, and it never fails to bring the magic of the season to every bite. If you haven’t tried a mug cake yet, you’re in for a treat! It’s a single-serve dessert that’s both simple and satisfying, with no need to turn on the oven.
Treat yourself to this festive mug cake, and don’t forget to top it with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra touch of holiday cheer. Trust us, this gingerbread mug cake will quickly become your new favorite holiday indulgence!
Why You Will Love This Gingerbread Cake In A Mug
- Quick & Easy: This gingerbread mug cake is ready in just a few minutes, with a cooking time of about 90 seconds in the microwave! It’s much faster than baking a whole cake.
- Crave-Worthy Gingerbread Flavor: This mug cake has the delicious, warming flavors of gingerbread from molasses and ground ginger.
- Easy To Make: This gingerbread mug cake recipe uses simple ingredients.
- High-Protein: Using Kodiak Cakes mix instead of flour and adding an egg boosts the protein content of this mug cake.
- Healthier Version: This mug cake is a healthier option. There is no butter or oil in this recipe.
- Perfect Single-Serving Dessert: It’s the ideal single-serving size for when you want a quick, satisfying treat without having to make a large batch.
What Is A Gingerbread Mug Cake?
Gingerbread mug cake is a single-serving cake cooked in a mug. It’s packed with the warm, comforting flavors of gingerbread from the addition of molasses, ground ginger, and cinnamon. This mug cake cooks quickly in the microwave, making it an easy and convenient treat. Also, it’s a healthier version made without butter or oil, yet it’s still delicious and satisfying. This mug cake has a light and fluffy texture and is incredibly easy to make.
Ingredients Needed
- Flour: We used Kodiak Cakes Power Cakes Buttermilk Mix for a higher-protein flour option. If you don’t have Kodiak Cakes, use all-purpose flour.
- Applesauce: Unsweetened applesauce makes this mug cake light and fluffy. Also, it replaces any butter or oil.
- Ginger: Ground ginger adds to the gingerbread flavor.
- Cinnamon: Add ground cinnamon for additional flavor.
- Nutmeg: A pinch of ground nutmeg for flavor.
- Baking Powder: Add baking powder so the mug cake rises.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla extract for flavor.
- Molasses: The addition of molasses enhances the gingerbread flavor.
- Sweetener: You can sweeten this mug cake with maple syrup, sugar, or sugar-free maple syrup.
- Egg: One egg makes this mug cake light and fluffy. Also, it adds protein.
How To Make Gingerbread Mug Cake
Step 1: Add the Kodiak Cakes or flour, unsweetened applesauce, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, baking powder, vanilla extract, sweetener, and egg to a large microwave-safe mug or bowl that holds at least 15 ounces.
Step 2: Thoroughly mix the ingredients.
We transferred the batter to a microwave-safe mug.
Step 3: Microwave the gingerbread mug cake for 1 minute and 30 seconds, or until fully cooked. Once done, let it slightly cool and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
Here are some delicious ways to serve this gingerbread mug cake!
- Whipped Cream: Top your mug cake with a dollop of whipped cream.
- Maple Syrup: Drizzle maple syrup on top for added sweetness and warmth.
- Powdered Sugar: Dust the gingerbread mug cake with a layer of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and a beautiful presentation.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: After baking, top your mug cake with a simple cream cheese frosting made from cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a splash of vanilla extract.
- Ice Cream: Add a scoop of low-fat vanilla ice cream on top of your warm mug cake for a delightful cold-warm contrast.
Expert Tips
- Use the Right Mug: Choose a microwave-safe mug that holds at least 15 ounces to prevent overflow. If you don’t have a mug, use a microwave-safe bowl or ramekin.
- Don’t Over-Mix: Mix the ingredients until combined but avoid over-mixing, as it can lead to a dense, tough texture.
- Watch the Microwave Time: Microwaves vary in power, so start with 90 seconds and check the cake, if it’s still too wet, microwave in additional 10-15 second intervals. Be careful not to overcook the mug cake, as this can dry it out.
Storage Instructions
This mug cake is best enjoyed after making it. If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. You can reheat it in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds.
Variations
- Flour Options: We love using Kodiak Cakes to make this mug cake! Not only does it add a boost of protein, but it’s also lower in points than regular flour if you’re following Weight Watchers. However, if you don’t have Kodiak Cakes on hand, don’t worry, regular all-purpose flour works just as well and still makes a delicious mug cake!
- Pumpkin Puree: Swap the unsweetened applesauce for canned pumpkin puree for a pumpkin and gingerbread flavor combination.
- Add Nuts or Dried Fruit: For extra texture and flavor, mix in some chopped walnuts, pecans, or dried cranberries. They pair wonderfully with the gingerbread flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Size Mug Should I Use?
Use a microwave-safe mug that holds at least 15 ounces to prevent the mug cake from overflowing.
Can I Make This Gingerbread Mug Cake Gluten-Free?
Yes! You can make this mug cake gluten-free if you use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of the Kodiak Cakes mix.
How Do I Know When My Mug Cake Is Done?
You can check if your mug cake is cooked by inserting a toothpick into the center. If the toothpick comes out clean, the cake is done. If it’s still wet, microwave it in 10-second intervals until it’s fully cooked.
Can I Make This Gingerbread Mug Cake In The Oven Instead Of The Microwave?
Yes, you can! Bake this gingerbread mug cake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes. Check with a toothpick to ensure it’s fully cooked.
More Recipes To Try Next!
- Pumpkin Mug Cake
- Chocolate Mug Cake
- Cinnamon Roll Mug Cake
- Gingerbread Muffins
- Strawberry Poke Cake
- Healthy Carrot Cake
- Gingerbread Overnight Oats
- Protein Cheesecake
If you try this recipe please be sure to leave us a comment and star rating ★★★★★ letting us know how it turns out for you.
GINGERBREAD MUG CAKE
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup Kodiak Cakes Power Cakes Buttermilk Mix (or all-purpose flour)
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 pinch of ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon molasses
- 4 teaspoons maple syrup, sugar, or sugar-free maple syrup
- 1 egg
Instructions
- Add the Kodiak Cakes or flour, unsweetened applesauce, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, baking powder, vanilla extract, sweetener, and egg to a large microwave-safe mug or bowl that holds at least 15 ounces.
- Thoroughly mix all the ingredients.
- Microwave the gingerbread mug cake for 1 minute and 30 seconds, or until fully cooked. If it’s not done yet, microwave it in additional 10-15 second intervals. Once done, let it slightly cool and enjoy!
Video
Notes
- Mug: Choose a microwave-safe mug that holds at least 15 ounces to prevent overflow. If you don’t have a mug, use a microwave-safe bowl or ramekin.
- Microwave Time: Microwaves vary in power, so start with 90 seconds and check the cake, if it’s still too wet, microwave in additional 10-15 second intervals. Be careful not to overcook the mug cake, as this can dry it out.
- Don’t Over-Mix: Mix the ingredients until combined but avoid over-mixing, as it can lead to a dense, tough texture.
- Bake: If you don’t have a microwave, bake this mug cake in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
