Apple Mug Cake (Gluten-Free, Paleo, Nut-Free Option)

This Apple Mug Cake is the perfect quick dessert that combines the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and apple, all in a single mug! It’s gluten-free, paleo-friendly, and easily adaptable to a nut-free diet, making it a great option for nearly anyone. In just 2 minutes, you’ll have a fluffy, tender cake that’s infused with the flavors of fall. Topped with whipped coconut cream, this mug cake is the ultimate treat when you’re craving something sweet but want to keep things simple and healthy.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 3 tablespoons finely ground almond flour (or sunflower seed flour or Otto’s cassava flour as a nut-free replacement)

• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ⅛ teaspoon baking soda (or scant ½ teaspoon baking powder, especially if using sunflower seed flour to avoid a green color)

• ⅛ teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt

• 1 tablespoon applesauce

• 2 teaspoons honey (or 2½ teaspoons maple syrup)

• 1 teaspoon avocado oil (or melted refined coconut oil or ghee)

• ⅛ teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 large egg

Directions

1. Prepare the Batter:

• In a liquid measuring cup or small bowl, add the almond flour, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Whisk until evenly combined.

• Add the applesauce, honey (or maple syrup), avocado oil (or other oil), vanilla extract, and egg. Stir vigorously until the batter is smooth and fully combined.

2. Microwave the Cake:

• Pour the batter into a microwave-safe mug (6- to 8-ounce size is ideal). If you want to skip the extra dish, you can microwave the batter directly in the measuring cup.

• Place the mug in the center of the microwave and cook on high for 1-2 minutes. A 900-watt microwave will cook the cake in about 90 seconds. Adjust the time based on the wattage of your microwave: decrease time for higher wattage and increase it for a lower wattage.

• The mug cake is done when it puffs up and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

3. Cool and Serve:

• Let the cake cool for a couple of minutes before topping with whipped coconut cream and more ground cinnamon, if desired.

4. Enjoy:

• Dig into this warm, fluffy, and comforting apple mug cake. Perfect for any time you need a quick and delicious treat!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 1

• Prep Time: 2 minutes

• Cook Time: 2 minutes

• Total Time: 4 minutes

Variations

• Nut-Free Option: Use sunflower seed flour or cassava flour instead of almond flour for a nut-free version.

• Sweetness Adjustment: If you prefer a sweeter cake, feel free to add an extra teaspoon of honey or maple syrup.

• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of ground ginger or nutmeg to the batter for a more spiced flavor profile.

• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut whipped cream for topping to keep the recipe completely dairy-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: This mug cake is best enjoyed immediately, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds until warm.

FAQs

1. Can I make this cake without an egg?

Yes, you can substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or chia egg (1 tablespoon chia seeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water). The texture may be slightly different, but it should still work.

2. Can I bake this in the oven?

Yes, if you prefer to bake the cake, pour the batter into an oven-safe ramekin and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18-20 minutes or at 325°F (163°C) in an air fryer for 13-15 minutes.

3. Can I use a different sweetener?

Yes, you can use any sweetener of your choice, like coconut sugar, maple syrup, or stevia. Just adjust the quantity depending on the sweetener you use.

4. Can I add extra fruit to the cake?

Yes! You can mix in some diced apples or other fruit before microwaving the cake for extra flavor and texture.

5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

This mug cake is best when made fresh. However, you can prepare the dry ingredients in advance and store them in a container for a quick, convenient option later.

6. Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can try other gluten-free flours, such as coconut flour, but you may need to adjust the quantities as coconut flour absorbs more liquid. Start with 2 tablespoons of coconut flour and add more liquid as needed.

7. Can I make this cake in a different microwave-safe container?

Yes, as long as it’s microwave-safe and similar in size (6- to 8-ounce), you can use a different container for cooking the cake.

Conclusion

This Apple Mug Cake is the ultimate easy, gluten-free, and paleo dessert for when you’re craving something warm, comforting, and sweet. With just a few simple ingredients and a microwave, you can have a delicious, fall-inspired treat in no time. Perfect for a quick snack or a healthy dessert option, this mug cake is sure to become one of your go-to recipes! Enjoy it with a dollop of whipped coconut cream for an extra indulgent experience.

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