Introduction to Ceramic Mug Dessert Recipes

Picture this: You're nestled in your favorite chair, a beautifully crafted ceramic mug in hand, about to indulge in a decadent single-serve dessert that takes mere minutes to prepare. For the discerning coffee lover and dessert enthusiast, mug desserts are the ultimate culinary magic trick – transforming simple ingredients into remarkable treats that satisfy your sweet tooth without overwhelming your kitchen or your waistline.

What You'll Need

Before diving into our delectable recipes, ensure you have:

Microwave-safe ceramic mugs (preferably with thick walls to prevent thermal shock)
Basic baking ingredients (flour, sugar, eggs, milk)
Measuring spoons and cups
A microwave
Optional: Toppings like whipped cream, chocolate chips, or fresh berries

Let’s get sweet.

Can’t seem to stop using that one special mug? Read our article here on why you have an emotional connection with your mug so you can learn why you always gravitate towards it!

S'mores Mug Cake

Flavor Profile: This mug cake captures the classic campfire treat with a moist chocolate cake base, gooey melted marshmallows, and a hint of graham cracker. It's nostalgic, sweet, and utterly comforting.

Ingredients:

4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Pinch of salt
3 tablespoons milk
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
2-3 small marshmallows, halved or quartered
1/2 graham cracker, crushed

Instructions:

In a microwave-safe ceramic mug, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
Add the milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until the batter is smooth and there are no lumps.
Gently press the halved or quartered marshmallows into the top of the batter.
Microwave on high for 60-90 seconds, or until the cake is set and a toothpick inserted into the center (avoiding the marshmallows) comes out mostly clean. Cooking times may vary depending on your microwave.
Carefully remove the mug from the microwave and sprinkle the crushed graham cracker over the melted marshmallows. Let it cool slightly before enjoying.

Drink Pairing: A classic black coffee or a creamy latte will complement the sweetness of the s'mores.

Best Enjoyed In: Around the campfire with friends (even if it's just in your backyard!), for cozy nights in by the fireplace, or anytime you're craving that nostalgic s'mores flavor.

You see that mug sitting on your countertop? It’s changed a lot over the last 2000 years. Read our article here on the history of ceramic mugs so you can learn more about where mugs started!

Salted Caramel Latte Mug Brownie

Flavor Profile: Rich, fudgy brownie infused with the warm, comforting flavors of coffee and sweet and salty caramel. It's a sophisticated and indulgent treat for coffee lovers.

Ingredients:

3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
Pinch of salt
1/4 teaspoon instant coffee granules
2 tablespoons milk
1 tablespoon melted butter
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon salted caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling

Instructions:

In a microwave-safe ceramic mug, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, salt, and instant coffee granules.
Add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until the batter is smooth.
Swirl in the 1 tablespoon of salted caramel sauce.
Microwave on high for 60-80 seconds, or until the brownie looks mostly set but still slightly gooey in the center. Cooking times may vary.
Carefully remove the mug and drizzle with extra salted caramel sauce. Let it cool slightly before enjoying.

Drink Pairing: A freshly brewed latte or a strong espresso will enhance the coffee and caramel notes.

Best Enjoyed In: As an afternoon pick-me-up with your coffee break, after a long day when you need a luxurious treat, or while reading a good book.

Looking for more savory ceramic mug recipes? Read our article here on 8 easy sweet and savory ceramic mug recipes so you can learn how to bake your cravings!

Blueberry Cheesecake Mug

Flavor Profile: Creamy, tangy cheesecake with bursts of sweet and slightly tart blueberries. It's a lighter and brighter dessert option that's still incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons crushed graham crackers
2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon milk
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon fresh or frozen blueberries

Instructions:

Sprinkle the crushed graham crackers into the bottom of a microwave-safe ceramic mug.
In a separate small bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
Stir in the lemon juice, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Gently fold in the blueberries.
Spoon the cheesecake mixture over the graham cracker crumbs in the mug.
Microwave on high for 60-90 seconds, or until the cheesecake is set around the edges but still slightly soft in the center. Cooking times may vary.
Let the mug cool slightly before enjoying. You can also chill it in the refrigerator for a more traditional cheesecake experience.

Drink Pairing: A light roast coffee or a cup of herbal tea will complement the delicate flavors of the blueberry cheesecake.

Best Enjoyed In: For a quick and easy dessert after lunch, as a refreshing treat on a warm day, or when you're craving something fruity and creamy.

Need ideas on how to style your kitchen with ceramic mugs? No worries, read our article here on 7 creative ideas to style your kitchen with mugs!

Chocolate Peanut Butter Mug Cake

Flavor Profile: A classic combination! Rich chocolate cake swirled with creamy, nutty peanut butter. It's a decadent and satisfying dessert that's hard to resist.

Ingredients:

4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Pinch of salt
3 tablespoons milk
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon creamy peanut butter

Instructions:

In a microwave-safe ceramic mug, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
Add the milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until the batter is smooth.
Dollop the peanut butter on top of the batter. Use a knife or toothpick to swirl the peanut butter into the chocolate batter.
Microwave on high for 60-90 seconds, or until the cake is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. Cooking times may vary.
Carefully remove the mug and let it cool slightly before enjoying the delightful chocolate peanut butter swirls.

Drink Pairing: A bold, dark roast coffee or a glass of cold milk will perfectly complement the rich flavors.

Best Enjoyed In: As an indulgent evening treat, when you need a comforting and familiar flavor combination, or as a quick dessert after a satisfying meal.

Want to know the type of ceramic mug handles to look out for when making your next mug or buying one? Read our article here on 6 different ceramic mug handles to inspire yourself on what handle to choose next!

Cinnamon Roll Mug Cake

Flavor Profile: The warm, comforting flavors of a cinnamon roll in a convenient mug cake. Expect a tender cake with swirls of cinnamon and brown sugar, often topped with a sweet glaze.

Ingredients (Cake):

4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Pinch of salt
3 tablespoons milk
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Ingredients (Cinnamon Swirl):

1 teaspoon melted butter
1 teaspoon brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Ingredients (Glaze - Optional):

1 tablespoon powdered sugar
A few drops of milk

Instructions:

In a microwave-safe ceramic mug, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Add the milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until the batter is smooth.
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
Spoon the cinnamon mixture over the cake batter in the mug. Use a knife or toothpick to create swirls.
Microwave on high for 60-90 seconds, or until the cake is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. Cooking times may vary.
While the cake is cooking, whisk together the powdered sugar and a few drops of milk to create a simple glaze (if using).
Carefully remove the mug and drizzle the glaze over the warm cake. Let it cool slightly before enjoying the taste of a warm cinnamon roll.

Drink Pairing: A classic drip coffee or a cozy chai latte will enhance the warm spice notes.

Best Enjoyed In: For a quick and comforting breakfast treat, as a mid-morning snack with your coffee, or when you're craving the flavors of a cinnamon roll without the fuss of baking a whole batch.

Ever put your mug in the microwave for a minute, only to pull it out, set it on the counter, and it randomly shatters? It’s probably thermal shock. Read our article here on how to stop your ceramic mugs from cracking in the microwave.

Lemon Lavender Mug Pudding

Flavor Profile: A delicate and aromatic pudding with bright lemon notes and a subtle floral hint from the lavender. It's a sophisticated and soothing dessert.

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Pinch of salt
1/4 cup milk
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
1/4 teaspoon dried culinary lavender (optional, use sparingly)
1/2 teaspoon melted butter

Instructions:

In a microwave-safe ceramic mug, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.
Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, melted butter, and dried lavender (if using).
Microwave on high for 60-90 seconds, or until the pudding has thickened. Check and stir after 60 seconds. If it's not thick enough, continue microwaving in 15-second intervals.
Carefully remove the mug and let the pudding cool slightly. The pudding will continue to thicken as it cools.

Drink Pairing: A calming chamomile tea or a light and floral Earl Grey tea will complement the delicate flavors.

Best Enjoyed In: As a light and refreshing dessert after dinner, for a relaxing afternoon treat, or when you're looking for a unique and aromatic flavor experience.

Nutella Mug Cake (yes another chocolate recipe)

Flavor Profile: Rich, chocolatey, and intensely hazelnut-flavored, thanks to the star ingredient, Nutella. It's a simple yet incredibly satisfying dessert for Nutella lovers.

Ingredients:

4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Pinch of salt
3 tablespoons milk
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 tablespoon Nutella, plus extra for topping (optional)

Instructions:

In a microwave-safe ceramic mug, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Add the milk and oil. Stir until the batter is smooth.
Stir in the 1 tablespoon of Nutella until it's well incorporated into the batter.
Microwave on high for 60-90 seconds, or until the cake is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. Cooking times may vary.
Carefully remove the mug and top with an extra dollop of Nutella if desired. Let it cool slightly before indulging in the hazelnutty goodness.

Drink Pairing: A classic cappuccino or a hazelnut-flavored coffee will enhance the Nutella flavor.

Best Enjoyed In: Whenever a chocolate hazelnut craving strikes, for a quick and easy dessert that feels like a special treat, or as a simple indulgence after a long day.

Apple Pie Mug Crumble

Flavor Profile: The warm, comforting flavors of apple pie in a convenient mug. Expect tender spiced apples topped with a buttery, crumbly oat topping.

Ingredients (Apple Filling):

1/4 cup diced apple (peeled or unpeeled, your preference)
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon lemon juice

Ingredients (Crumble Topping):

1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon rolled oats
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon cold butter, cut into small pieces

Instructions:

In a microwave-safe ceramic mug, combine the diced apple, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Stir well.
In a small bowl, combine the flour, rolled oats, and brown sugar for the crumble topping.
Cut in the cold butter using your fingers or a fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apple filling in the mug.
Microwave on high for 90-120 seconds, or until the apple is tender and the topping is slightly golden. Cooking times may vary.
Carefully remove the mug and let the apple pie crumble cool slightly before enjoying the warm, comforting flavors.

Drink Pairing: A warm cup of spiced apple cider or a medium roast coffee will complement the apple and cinnamon flavors.

Best Enjoyed In: On a cool autumn evening, as a comforting dessert after a hearty meal, or when you're craving the taste of apple pie without baking a whole one.

Tiramisu Mug Dessert

Flavor Profile: This mug dessert captures the essence of classic tiramisu with layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone cheese mixture, and a dusting of cocoa powder. It's an elegant and surprisingly easy treat.

Ingredients:

1-2 ladyfinger cookies, broken into pieces
2 tablespoons strong brewed coffee, cooled
2 tablespoons mascarpone cheese
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of cocoa powder, for dusting

Instructions:

Place the broken ladyfinger pieces in the bottom of a ceramic mug.
Pour the cooled coffee over the ladyfingers, allowing them to soak for a minute or two.
In a small bowl, whisk together the mascarpone cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Spoon the mascarpone mixture over the soaked ladyfingers in the mug.
Dust the top generously with cocoa powder.
For the best flavor, chill the tiramisu mug dessert in the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes before enjoying.

Drink Pairing: A shot of espresso or a strong Italian roast coffee is the perfect accompaniment to tiramisu.

Best Enjoyed In: As an elegant after-dinner dessert, for a special occasion treat, or when you're craving the sophisticated flavors of tiramisu in a single-serving format.

Red Velvet Mug Cake

Flavor Profile: A classic red velvet cake flavor with a hint of cocoa and a tangy note, often complemented by a simple cream cheese-style frosting (optional). It's a visually appealing and delicious treat.

Ingredients (Cake):

4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Pinch of salt
3 tablespoons milk
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon white vinegar
1/4 teaspoon red food coloring (adjust to your preference)

Ingredients (Frosting - Optional):

1 tablespoon cream cheese, softened
1 tablespoon powdered sugar
A few drops of milk

Instructions:

In a microwave-safe ceramic mug, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
Add the milk, oil, vanilla extract, white vinegar, and red food coloring. Stir until the batter is smooth and evenly colored.
Microwave on high for 60-90 seconds, or until the cake is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. Cooking times may vary.
While the cake is cooking, whisk together the softened

FAQs

Why does mug cake become hard?

One of the most common frustrations with mug cakes is when they emerge from the microwave feeling more like a hockey puck than a fluffy treat. The primary culprit behind a hard mug cake is overcooking. Microwaves can vary significantly in power, and the small volume of a mug cake means it cooks very quickly. Even an extra 10-15 seconds can make a big difference.

What is thermal shock for mugs?

Thermal shock is the stress that a material experiences due to a rapid and significant change in temperature. For ceramic mugs, this typically occurs when a hot mug is suddenly exposed to a cold environment or liquid, or vice versa. The rapid expansion or contraction of different parts of the mug can create internal stresses that exceed the material's strength, leading to cracking or even shattering.

Why is my mug cake so rubbery?

A rubbery texture in a mug cake is often a sign of overmixing the batter. When flour is mixed with liquid, gluten develops. While some gluten development is necessary for structure, excessive mixing leads to a network of strong gluten strands, resulting in a chewy or rubbery texture.

Can you fix a broken ceramic mug?

Whether you can fix a broken ceramic mug depends on the severity and type of break.

Minor Chips: Small chips along the rim or edges can sometimes be repaired using a food-safe ceramic glue or epoxy. These adhesives can help to prevent further chipping and restore the mug's appearance to some extent. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and ensure the glue is safe for contact with food and hot liquids if you intend to continue using the mug for consumption.
Cracks: Cracks are more problematic. While you might be able to temporarily seal a hairline crack with glue, the structural integrity of the mug is compromised. The crack can weaken further with heat and use, potentially leading to leakage or complete breakage. It's generally not recommended to use a cracked mug for hot beverages due to the risk of it breaking and causing burns. Cracked mugs can still be repurposed for other uses, like holding pens or small items.

10 Easy and Delicious Ceramic Mug Dessert Recipes.

Table of Contents

Introduction to Ceramic Mug Dessert Recipes