Indulge in the sweetness of a gluten-free mug cake that's not only tender but also ready in just under five minutes. Why fuss with kneading and baking an entire batch of cinnamon rolls when you can savor the delightful flavors of a quick and easy cinnamon roll mug cake?
These recipes are all about delicious gluten-free creations that are quick and easy, from mouthwatering gluten-free microwave desserts to these scrumptious mug cake recipes starting off with this gluten-free coffee mug cake or this chocolatey gluten-free chocolate mug cake. You must make this delectable gluten-free vegan brownie sundae. Plus, discover the best gluten-free cake mix for all your baking adventures. Give them all a try, they're so worth it!
Gluten-Free Cinnamon Roll Mug Cake Recipe
How many times have you craved gluten-free cinnamon rolls only to realize it takes time to make, knead, and bake them? I LOVE cinnamon rolls, but sometimes I'm what you call a lazy baker.
This Gluten-Free Mug Cake is for avid bakers and lazy bakers, and you are going to love how simple it is to make. No bowls are required (unless you want to double the recipe), and you don't have to turn on your oven.
I make my mug recipe, like this cinnamon roll mug cake, in ramekins or coffee mugs. I usually devour the whole thing alone, but it can be shared, or you can double the recipe.
The only cleanup after is the ramekin, some measuring utensils, and a spoon. Please tell me you love that this is a minimal cleanup recipe.
When the girls have a birthday party to attend, I'll sometimes make a mug cake and send it with them (if I don't have a cupcake in the freezer for them).
Why You’re Going to Love This Gluten-Free Cinnamon Mug Cake
Quick and Easy - You'll adore this Gluten-Free Mug Cake because it whips up in just a few minutes, making it perfect for those sweet cravings that strike suddenly.
Minimal Ingredients - With only a handful of common pantry staples, this recipe keeps things delightfully uncomplicated.
Irresistible Flavor - Despite its simplicity, this mug cake boasts a rich, indulgent flavor that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients in Gluten-Free Mug Cake
Oil of Choice - The oil adds moisture and fat to the gluten-free mug cake, contributing to its tenderness and preventing it from becoming too dry during cooking.
Granulated Sugar - Sugar provides sweetness to the cake and helps with browning and caramelization, enhancing the overall flavor and texture. Use coconut sugar if you don't want to use granulated sugar. Just note that this gluten-free cinnamon roll mug cake will be more of a caramel color if you use coconut sugar.
Egg Yolk (or Whole Egg) - The egg yolk (or whole egg) acts as a binding agent, helping to hold the cake together. It also adds moisture and richness to the cake. Use the whole egg if making more than 1. I haven't personally tried making this with flax egg yet, but when I do, I'll update the post. Also, be sure to check the comments to see if anyone has made it with an egg replacer.
Milk of Choice (or Dairy-Free Milk) - Milk adds liquid to the batter, creating the desired cake-like consistency. You can use dairy or dairy-free milk based on dietary preferences.
All-Purpose Gluten-Free Flour Blend - The gluten-free flour blend is the primary dry ingredient and is essential for creating the cake's structure.
I've only tested this with Bob's Red Mill 1-to-1 flour, but you should be able to use most blends that combine potato, tapioca, and rice.
Most of the gluten-free flour blends out there have a combination of those three.
Gluten-Free Baking Powder - Baking powder is a leavening agent that helps the cake rise and become light and fluffy. The gluten-free version ensures the cake remains gluten-free.
Cinnamon - Cinnamon adds a warm, aromatic flavor to the cake, giving it a delicious, cinnamon roll-inspired taste. You can add extra cinnamon if you like loads of cinnamon like me.
Powdered Sugar - Powdered sugar makes the glaze sweet and smooth. It provides a glossy finish to the cake when drizzled on top. You can enjoy it plain if you don't want to add the icing.
Milk - The milk in the glaze helps achieve the desired consistency and ensures the powdered sugar blends smoothly, creating a sweet and creamy topping.
Gluten-Free Vanilla Extract - Vanilla extract enhances the flavor of the glaze, adding a pleasant, aromatic note to the cake.
Equipment Needed for This Gluten-Free Microwave Mug Cake
Microwaveable Coffee Mug or Ramekin - You'll need a microwave-safe mug or ramekin to cook the gluten-free mug cake. Make sure it's of an appropriate size for the recipe.
If you have any questions about making a Gluten-Free Mug Cake, please leave a comment, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
How to Make A Gluten-Free Mug Cake
- Place oil, sugar, and egg yolk in a medium-sized microwaveable coffee mug or ramekin. Mix with a fork until combined. Add in milk, flour, cinnamon, and baking powder. Mix until just combined.
- Microwave for 1 minute to 1 minute and 30 seconds until the desired consistency is reached. If you like your cake on the softer side, I would only microwave your mug cake for 1 minute. Remember that it will continue to cook a little after you remove it from the microwave.
- For the glaze, in a separate small bowl, mix together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla.
- Spoon over warm cinnamon roll mug cake and enjoy!
Tips for Making the Best Gluten-Free Mug Cake
Measure Ingredients Accurately - Precision matters in baking, so use measuring cups and spoons to ensure you add the right amount of each ingredient.
Mix Thoroughly - Ensure all the ingredients are well combined for a uniform texture. Pay special attention to mixing in the dry ingredients to avoid lumps.
Adjust Cooking Time - Microwave cooking times can vary, so start with the minimum recommended time and adjust as needed to avoid overcooking, which can dry the cake.
Don't Overmix - Once your ingredients are combined, avoid overmixing the batter, as this can lead to a tougher cake.
Use a Microwave-Safe Mug or Ramekin - Ensure the container you use is microwave-safe to avoid any accidents or damage to your dish.
Add Glaze After Cooking - Drizzle the glaze over the mug cake after it's cooked and still warm for the best taste and presentation.
Customize Your Toppings - Feel free to add your favorite toppings like whipped cream, berries, or chopped nuts to enhance the flavor and texture of your mug cake.
Experiment with Flavors - Don't be afraid to try different flavor variations by adding ingredients like chocolate chips, extracts, or spices to create unique microwave cakes.
Enjoy It Warm - Mug cakes are best enjoyed when they're still warm and fresh out of the microwave, so dig in quickly for the ultimate taste experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Store This Gluten-Free Cake In A Mug?
Store the leftover gluten-free mug cake in an airtight container or wrap it in plastic to prevent it from drying out. Keep it at room temperature for up to 1-2 days. If you want to store it longer, refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
Can I Freeze Gluten-Free Mug Cake?
Yes, you can freeze gluten-free mug cake for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. Label it with the date to keep track of freshness. Freeze for up to 1-2 months. To enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator and warm it in the microwave briefly to regain its softness.
Can You Make This Gluten-Free Mug Cake Ahead of Time?
Mug cakes are best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the dry ingredients in advance and store them in a zip-top bag or airtight container. When ready to make, add the wet ingredients and microwave.
What Substitutions/Replacements Can I Make in This Gluten-Free Mug Cake?
Here are a few substitutions and replacement suggestions:
Sugar - Adjust the sweetness level by using more or less sugar or using a sugar substitute.
Egg - If you're vegan, use a flax egg or a commercial egg replacer.
Milk - Choose any milk or milk alternative that suits your dietary preferences.
Cinnamon - Customize the flavor by using other spices like nutmeg or cardamom.
Glaze - Modify the glaze by adding flavored extracts or using alternative sweeteners for a different taste.
Can I Bake This GF Mug Cake In The Oven?
You can bake this in the oven at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes if you don't have a microwave, but otherwise, it's ready in less than 5 minutes.
This gluten-free cinnamon roll mug cake is going to be your next go-to breakfast treat, trust me. The texture is perfect and so similar to a cinnamon roll.
What Size Mug Should I Use?
The mug size you should use is typically around 8 to 12 ounces (240 to 350 milliliters) in capacity. Using a mug of this size ensures the cake has enough space to rise and cook evenly without overflowing or spilling over the sides during microwaving.
Remember that the exact size may not be critical, but using a mug within this capacity range should work well for most mug cake recipes. If you have a smaller or larger microwave-safe container, you can adjust the cooking time accordingly, as smaller mugs may require less time, and larger ones may require more.
What’s The Best Flour To Use For Gluten-free Mug Cake?
The best mug cake flour to use for a gluten-free mug cake is an all-purpose gluten-free flour blend that is specifically formulated for baking. These blends are designed to mimic the texture and functionality of traditional wheat flour, making them a suitable replacement in gluten-free recipes.
For USA readers, we like Bob's Red Mill Gluten-Free 1-to-1 Baking Flour. If you are in the UK, use Doves Farm Gluten-Free Plain White Flour or Freee by Doves Farm Gluten-Free Plain White Flour.
Can You Make This Recipe Without An Egg?
You can make a gluten-free mug cake without an egg by using an egg substitute or egg replacement. I have not tried it yet.
Why Is My Gluten-Free Mug Cake So Dense?
A gluten-free mug cake can turn out dense due to factors like the choice of flour, overmixing, incorrect liquid ratios, overcooking in the microwave, or the use of egg replacements that may yield a denser texture.
To avoid this, use a quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, mix the batter until combined, ensure the right balance of wet and dry ingredients, and be cautious with microwave cooking times.
Why Is My GF Mug Cake So Dry?
Your gluten-free mug cake may turn out dry due to factors such as the choice of flour, overcooking in the microwave, incorrect proportions of wet-to-dry ingredients, or the use of egg replacements that don't provide enough moisture.
To avoid dryness, use a moisture-retaining flour blend, follow the suggested cooking time, and ensure the proper balance of liquids.
Why Is My Gluten-Free Cake In A Cup Gummy?
A gluten-free mug cake can turn gummy due to overmixing the batter, using a flour blend with excessive starch content, incorrect wet-to-dry ingredient proportions, overcooking in the microwave, or certain egg replacements.
To avoid gumminess, mix the batter gently, opt for a suitable flour blend, follow the recommended ingredient ratios, and ensure you don't overcook the cake.
What Are The Different Variations Or Flavors Of Mug Cakes?
There are quite a few different variations and flavors for mug cakes; these are some of our go-to mug cake recipes:
- Gluten-free Chocolate Chip Mug Cookie
- Gluten-Free Double Chocolate Chip Mug Cookie
- Gluten-Free Vegan Mug Brownie - this is a great vegan mug cake.
- Gluten-Free Mug Coffee Cake
- Gluten-Free Chocolate Mug Cake
Which one of these mug cake recipes will you make next?
What Toppings Can I Add To My Mug Cake?
The options of topping you can add to your mug cake are endless, but here are a few to get you started:
- Whipped Cream - A classic choice that goes well with almost any mug cake flavor. Top with a generous dollop of whipped cream.
- Ice Cream - Vanilla, chocolate, or any favorite ice cream flavor adds a delightful contrast to the warm cake. Don't forget the sprinkles or chocolate chips!
- Fresh Berries - Fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries not only add color but also a burst of fruity goodness.
- Nuts - Chopped nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans add crunch and a nutty flavor. Toast them for extra depth of taste.
- Chocolate Sauce - Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over your mug cake for an indulgent touch. You can also use caramel or berry sauce.
- Sprinkles - For a fun and colorful topping, sprinkle on some rainbow or chocolate sprinkles.
If you want a more traditional cinnamon roll, you'll love these Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls.
Gluten-Free Mug Cake
Gluten-Free Mug Cake that's sweet, tender, and ready in less than five minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon oil of choice
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 egg yolk (or use the whole egg if you're doubling the recipe to make two)
- 2 tablespoons milk of choice (or dairy-free milk)
- ¼ cup all purpose gluten-free flour blend
- ⅛ teaspoon gluten-free baking powder
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
For the glaze:
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon milk (or dairy-free milk)
- ⅛ teaspoon gluten-free vanilla extract
Instructions
- Place oil, sugar, and egg yolk in a medium-sized microwaveable coffee mug or ramekin. Mix with a fork until combined. Add in milk, flour, cinnamon, and baking powder. Mix until just combined.
- Microwave for 1 minute to 1 minute and 30 seconds until the desired consistency is reached. If you like your cake on the softer side, I would only microwave your mug cake for 1 minute. Remember that it will continue to cook a little after you remove it from the microwave.
- For the glaze, in a separate small bowl, mix together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla.
- Spoon over warm cinnamon roll mug cake and enjoy!
Notes
- Use a microwaveable coffee mug or ramekin.
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Nutrition Information:
Yield:
2Serving Size:
1 mug cakeAmount Per Serving: Calories: 1160Total Fat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 94mgSodium: 1970mgCarbohydrates: 223gFiber: 7gSugar: 27gProtein: 28g
This nutrition info is based on the exact ingredients and brands used at the time. It may not be 100% accurate. Please check your ingredients nutrition labels.
Natalie
Oh my, these mug cakes look perfect! I love cinnamon roll and this is simply genius!
chrystal
Thank you!
Chrystal
Anne
This looks so yummy! Can’t wait for the grain-free version!
chrystal
Thanks for stopping by Anne!
Best,
Chrystal
Terri
Perfect little snack to take the edge off those cravings! Thank you for sharing 🙂
chrystal
So glad you liked it. Thank you for letting me know.
Best,
Chrystal
Sandra
Oh yum. The worst part about these is waiting for them to cool enough so that you can eat them! These would be great with nuts and raisins
Meli
Hi! I’m dying to try this recipe! I have all the ingredients but I don’t have a microwave.. is there a way to double this recipe and bake in an oven? what temperature would you suggest?
chrystal
Hi Meli,
For the ingredients (eggs, etc) it might make more sense for you to make my cinnamon roll cake. https://www.glutenfreepalate.com/gluten-free-cinnamon-roll-cake/
Best,
Chrystal
Ame
was moist, hard, and kinda like a big chunk of pancake, but it was kinda good with some maple syrup
chrystal
Hi Ame,
It should not have been hard, or like a big chunk of pancake. Did you use a different flour blend or possibly did you pack the flour?
Best,
Chrystal
Jess
There's an error on the recipe under "1/4all purpose gluten free flour..." Is it 1/4 cup? Teaspoon? Tablespoon?
chrystal
Thanks for the catch Jess! I just switched recipe card plugins and there have been some glitches. It's fixed now. 1/4 cup 🙂
Best,
Chrystal
Liana
I made this with Birch Benders pancake/waffle mix (grain free/Paleo), used a whole egg, forgot milk, added pecans and it came out delish!!!!
Thanks!
chrystal
So glad you liked it Liana. Thank you for sharing how you made it.
Best,
Chrystal
Derek
I made one in the morning and just fried the egg white to go with it. Amazing!
chrystal
Hi Derek,
I am so glad you think so! Thanks for stopping by and letting me know 🙂
Best,
Chrystal
CrunchyChef
This mug cake was delicious! It tastes just like a cinnamon roll but was so easy to make. Plus it was great for being gluten free and dairy free! I definitely recommend trying this recipe!
chrystal
Thank you so much for taking time to stop by and leave a comment! I'm glad you liked it.
Best,
Chrystal
Karen Griffith
Oh dear! What have you done!
This is so quick and easy to make & we all love it....I’m going to be a very fat person very very very soon!
I used rice milk to make it dairy free. Then added pecans & mixed dried fruit & maple syrup to the icing sugar so it came out tasting like pecan pie!
Thank you from a dairy & gluten free happy home!
chrystal
Hi Karen,
I am so glad you like it! You will be fine if you don't eat one every day 😉 Thank you for stopping by.
Best,
Chrystal
Mary Beth
I made these after I had an instant craving when I saw the post on Instagram. I’ve been wanting cinnamon rolls for ages but couldn’t muster the energy and patience to make a huge batch of rolled out cinnamon rolls (not to mention there aren’t enough people in my house to eat a whole batch without getting a belly ache or discovering how long the rolls would be delicious before we got the chance to eat them alL)!
The cinnamon roll mug cake satisfied the craving, it was fast, and I didn’t waste any food. That is beauty! Thanks!
chrystal
Hi Mary Beth,
I am so glad you like this quick and easy cinnamon roll mug cake. I love being able to make just one, and so quickly. Thank you for stopping by.
Best,
Chrystal
Nicole
Used a flour blend I can find in Canada and it came out delicious!
I added some chopped pecans and made a cream cheese glaze because I had it on hand.
Will be keeping this in my back pocket for the perfect breakfast
chrystal
Hi Nicole,
I am so glad you were able to make it work with a flour blend you could find locally. Thank you for stopping by to let me know.
Best,
Chrystal
Lindsay
These were great! Excellent texture and everything! The only thing I felt it needed was a bit of salt.. if you were to add salt to this recipe, how much would you add? Thanks!!
chrystal
Hi Lindsay,
So glad you like it! I'd add 1/4 teaspoon of salt at the most, if I were to add salt.
Best,
Chrystal
Aria
I used 1 tbsp maple syrup instead of sugar and added in a bit more gluten free flour. I also used almond milk to make it dairy free. It came out beautifully! Thankyou so much! 🙂
chrystal
Hi Aria,
I'm so glad you like it! Thank you for taking the time to stop by and let me know.
Best,
Chrystal
Kathy
I tried this with a grain free 1 to 1 for mix by bob red Mill. It was good but very dense. I think it needs the full egg to make it less dense. Also, could you use the base of this recipe top make a simple mug bread?
chrystal
Hi Kathy,
I haven't used the grain free blend in this recipe, thanks for letting us know that it delivers a dense cake. We usually stick with the non-grain free 1-to-1 from Bob's. Not sure about the mug bread, but I do have a recipe for a mug cinnamon roll cake.
Best,
Chrystal
Tahlija
I just made it and it’s absolutely delicious. I don’t like eggs so I have non in the house so I just didn’t put it in and it turned out amazing and tastes delicious
chrystal
I am so glad you like it and you were able to enjoy this mug cake without eggs. Thank you for stopping by to let me know.
Best,
Chrystal
Ammy
These are delish! I used a yolks plus a tiny extra egg white, grapeseed oil, 1/8 c almond flour and 1/8 blend of gf flour and gf pancake mix. Also added a pinch of salt!
So yummy, moist and great! Hit the sweet spot. I had it in microwave for 60 secs only.
Than you for the recipe!
chrystal
I'm so glad you love it! Thank you for letting me know and for sharing what flour combo you used.
Best,
Chrystal
Heather Stone
AMAZING recipe. Hits the spot on a cold night. I use room temp butter as my oil, double the cinnamon, 1/8 tsp nutmeg, pinch of salt, the rest the same except I do a dollop of sweetened condensed milk as my frosting! D-E-LISH.
chrystal
D'awe. I'm so glad you like it. Thank you for stopping by to let me know.
Best,
Chrystal
Zea
Oh my gosh. This is so good! It was super easy to make and will definitely be sharing this with my family! I think I found my new favourite breakfast. Thank you so much!
chrystal
Hi Zea,
I'm so glad you like it! Thank you for letting me know.
Best,
Chrystal
Joelle
Thank you! This was yummy. I skipped the egg so I did 1/4cup oat milk, 1tsp chia (not ground), and upped the baking soda to 1/4 tsp.
chrystal
Hi Joelle,
I'm so glad you liked it. Thank you for stopping back by and sharing what you used.
Best,
Chrystal
Chloe
This was very tasty, but I’m wondering if there should be salt in the recipe. Did I miss it? It would explain why the cake comes out rather solid.
chrystal
You can add salt if you like, but it's not required.
Best,
Chrystal
Sadie Gilbert
If you don't have a microwave, can you make it in an oven? If so, what are the directions for baking in the oven?
chrystal
Hi Sadie,
You can bake it in a small oven safe dish or ramekin at 350 for 9-11 minutes.
Best,
Chrystal
Miles
This recipe is so amazing! I was able to use the flax egg substitute and it worked great. Definitely a favorite of my family!
chrystal
I"m so glad you like it. Thank you for letting me know.
Best,
Chrystal
Louisa
This was delicious!! Such an easy and yummy treat. Thanks for the recipe!
chrystal
I am so glad you like it.
Best,
Chrystal
B.D.
Delish, thank you!!! I’ve been GF for almost a year and I’ve missed cinnamon buns so much 🙂
A few questions: 1. Could you melt butter instead of oil? 2. Could you add brown sugar? If so, how much? 3. Is it 229 calories for the ingredients listed? It said one serving but then yields 4... want to know how much I’m eating haha!
chrystal
Hi! Yes, you can use melted butter. You can use brown sugar instead of white sugar if you want more of the brown sugar flavor. The calories are for the whole recipe, so if you end up dividing it into 4 servings, you divide the calories by 4.
Best,
Chrystal
Shantell
how do i triple this recipe
chrystal
You can make my cinnamon roll cake and bake it if you want a whole cake. https://www.glutenfreepalate.com/gluten-free-cinnamon-roll-cake/
Best,
Chrystal
Nancy Eiser
Can I use all purpose GF flour for your cinnamon mug cake? Not sure what the difference is between all purpose flour and the one specified in your recipe. Also, can I use almond milk?
chrystal
Hi Nancy,
Some people have had problems with the bob's all purpose flour turning out gummy or rubbery in recipes, so I don't recommend it anymore. You can use almond milk though.
Best,
Chrystal
Gretchen
I used egg replacer powder and it was amazing! I’m GF, Dairy Free, and egg free and this hit the spot! Thank you!
chrystal
You are very welcome. So glad you liked it.
Best,
Chrystal
Heidi
Made a double batch with your gf flour recipe. Added a smidge of vanilla, a pinch of salt and used butter. Used a tall cupcake liner in the mug so I could send one with my son to work. A minute 15 seconds was perfect. Moist and with good texture. Will double the cinnamon next time.
chrystal
Thanks for sharing!
Best,
Chrystal
Tina
This was really good! I haven't had a "cinnamon roll" in 4 years since my diagnosed with celiac disease! I'm also dairy free. I used silk's cashew milk and it turned out tasty! Thank you so much for posting this recipe!
chrystal
I am so glad you liked it. Thank you for letting me know.
Best,
Chrystal
Lauren
Hi, are the nutrition facts for the whole mug cake or half?
chrystal
The nutrition listed is for 1 mug cake, this recipe makes two total if you split the batter between two mugs or ramekins. I just updated it to hopefully be more clear.
Best,
Chrystal