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There’s something truly magical about a warm, fluffy mug cake that you can whip up in minutes, and this pumpkin mug cake is no exception! We’re absolutely loving this cozy fall treat, which features the delicious flavors of pumpkin puree and a blend of pumpkin pie spices.
Our special ingredient? Kodiak Cakes! Not only is it the perfect flour alternative, but it also makes this mug cake incredibly light and fluffy while adding a boost of protein, making this single-serving cake as nourishing as it is delicious.
Don’t have Kodiak Cakes on hand? No worries we’ve got flour alternatives covered! This mug cake blew us away the first time we made it and we’re so excited to share it with you! Get ready to savor the season in the simplest, most delicious way!

Why You Will Love This Pumpkin Mug Cake Recipe
- It’s perfect for those cozy fall evenings when you crave something sweet but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen!
- This pumpkin mug cake is incredibly easy to make in about two minutes.
- This mug cake takes just 90 seconds to cook in the microwave!
- It’s packed with delicious pumpkin spice flavor!
- This mug cake has a light, fluffy, and airy texture.
- You can make this mug cake with Kodiak Cakes or other flour options!
- There’s no butter or oil in this mug cake!
What Is A Pumpkin Mug Cake?
A pumpkin mug cake is a quick, single serving pumpkin dessert that’s incredibly easy to make! It takes just 90 seconds to cook in the microwave, giving you all the deliciousness of pumpkin cake without the hassle of traditional baking. Simply mix the ingredients directly in a mug, then microwave and enjoy. The result is a soft, fluffy pumpkin cake ready in minutes. This cozy treat is perfect for satisfying your seasonal dessert cravings with minimal effort.
Ingredients Needed

- Flour: We like to use the Kodiak Cakes Power Cakes Buttermilk Mix as the base of this mug cake because it results in the most light and fluffy texture. All-purpose flour will also work for this recipe and we share more flour alternatives below.
- Pumpkin Puree: Use canned pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. The pumpkin puree gives this mug cake a delicious pumpkin flavor!
- Pumpkin Pie Spice: Pumpkin pie spice adds incredible flavor.
- Baking Powder: Add baking powder to ensure the mug cake rises.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla extract adds flavor.
- Salt: A pinch of salt enhances the flavors.
- Maple Syrup: Sweeten this mug cake with maple syrup, sugar-free maple syrup, or your sweetener of choice.
- Egg: One egg helps bind the ingredients and makes this mug cake incredibly light and fluffy.
Flour Variations
While Kodiak Cakes adds a delicious protein boost and fantastic flavor, you can easily substitute it with various options to suit your dietary needs and preferences.
- All-Purpose Flour: The simplest swap! Use the same amount as Kodiak Cakes for a classic mug cake experience.
- Oat Flour: You can substitute oat flour 1:1 in this recipe. To ensure this recipe is gluten-free, use certified gluten-free oat flour. If you don’t have oat flour, you can make it by blending 1/4 cup of oats in a blender.
- Almond Flour: Almond flour is a gluten-free flour option with a nutty flavor and moist texture. For this recipe, use 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons to achieve the perfect consistency.
- Coconut Flour: Use just 2 tablespoons of coconut flour, as it absorbs more moisture.
- Whole Wheat Flour: For a heartier option, use 3 tablespoons of whole wheat flour. Since it absorbs more moisture, you may want to increase the liquid slightly, try adding an extra 1-2 teaspoons of pumpkin puree or a splash of milk to achieve that perfect cake-like texture.
How To Make A Pumpkin Mug Cake
Step 1: In a microwave-safe mug or ramekin that holds at least 12 ounces, mix together the Kodiak Cakes mix or flour, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, vanilla extract, salt, maple syrup, and egg.

Or, mix these ingredients in a bowl and then pour the mixture into a microwave-safe mug.

Step 2: Place the mug cake in the microwave and cook it for approximately 90 seconds.

Step 3: Let the mug cake cool for 1-2 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Once your pumpkin mug cake is ready, serve it on its own or with delicious toppings. Here are some great topping ideas.
- Ice Cream: Serve this pumpkin mug cake with a scoop of your favorite ice cream, whether it’s vanilla, caramel, or even pumpkin-flavored. This combination creates a delicious contrast with the warm cake.
- Whipped Cream: A generous dollop of whipped cream adds a light, airy finish and makes your mug cake feel extra indulgent. Try flavored whipped cream, like cinnamon or maple! Or, use coconut whipped cream for a dairy-free option.
- Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped nuts on top for a satisfying crunch and an added layer of texture.
- Caramel: Drizzle some warm caramel sauce on top for a sweet treat that complements the pumpkin flavor.
- Chocolate Syrup: Drizzle with chocolate syrup for a rich, decadent addition that pairs perfectly with the spices in the cake.
- Greek Yogurt: Serve this mug cake with a dollop of Greek yogurt or pumpkin yogurt!
Also, this pumpkin mug cake pairs well with a warm chai latte, a pumpkin spice latte, or a cup of cozy herbal tea or spiced apple cider.
Expert Tips
- Make Pumpkin Pie Spice: If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice, make it by mixing 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/8 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, 1/8 teaspoon of ground ginger, and a pinch of cloves.
- Microwave-Safe Mug: Make sure to use a microwave-safe mug for this recipe that holds 12 ounces or more. If you don’t have a mug, you can microwave this mug cake in a microwave-safe ramekin instead!
- Make It A Protein Pumpkin Mug Cake: For an extra boost of protein, add 2 teaspoons of vanilla protein powder.
- Don’t Over-Mix: Mix to incorporate all the ingredients for this mug cake, but don’t over-mix. Over-mixing can cause a dense texture, and you want your mug cake to be light and fluffy.
- Mix-In Chocolate Chips: For a burst of chocolate decadence, mix one tablespoon of mini chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, or sugar-free chocolate chips into the mug cake batter.
Storage Instructions
If you happen to have any leftover mug cake, which is rare, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for a couple of days. When ready to enjoy it again, reheat it in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Should I Microwave This Mug Cake?
Microwave this pumpkin mug cake for approximately 1 minute and 30 seconds (90 seconds).
Can I Make This Pumpkin Mug Cake High-Protein?
Yes, you can make this pumpkin mug cake even higher in protein! It’s already high-protein since we used Kodiak Cakes and an egg, but to boost the protein further, simply add two teaspoons of vanilla protein powder.
More Recipes To Try Next!
- Chocolate Mug Cake
- Cinnamon Roll Mug Cake
- Healthy Carrot Cake
- Chocolate Sheet Cake
- Pumpkin Spice Muffins
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.
PUMPKIN MUG CAKE

Ingredients
- 1/4 cup Kodiak Cakes Power Cakes Buttermilk Mix or flour
- 3 tablespoons pumpkin puree
- 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or sugar-free maple syrup or sweetener of choice)
- 1 egg
Instructions
- In a microwave-safe mug or ramekin that holds at least 12 ounces, mix together the Kodiak Cakes mix or flour, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, vanilla extract, salt, maple syrup, and egg. Or, mix these ingredients in a bowl and then pour the mixture into a microwave-safe mug.
- Place the mug cake in the microwave and cook it for approximately 90 seconds, or until it rises and is set in the middle.
- Let the mug cake cool for 1-2 minutes before serving. Enjoy it as is or top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Video

Notes
- Homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice: If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice, make it by mixing 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/8 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, 1/8 teaspoon of ground ginger, and a pinch of cloves.
- Protein Pumpkin Mug Cake: For an extra boost of protein, add 2 teaspoons of vanilla protein powder.
- Chocolate Chips: For a burst of chocolate flavor, mix in one tablespoon of mini chocolate chips.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.