If you’ve got a sweet tooth but want to keep things low-carb, this Keto Cinnamon Mug Cake is the perfect quick fix. It’s soft, warm, and spiced just right—like a cinnamon roll’s speedy cousin. You mix everything in one mug, microwave it, and in about a minute you’ve got cake.
No turning on the oven, no complicated steps, and barely any cleanup. It’s ideal for late-night cravings, lazy weekends, or whenever you want dessert without the guilt.
Ingredients
Method
- Choose the right mug. Use a microwave-safe mug that holds at least 12 ounces. This gives the batter room to rise without overflowing.
- Melt the butter. Add 1 tablespoon butter to the mug and microwave for 15–20 seconds until melted. Swirl it around to lightly coat the sides.
- Mix the wet ingredients. Whisk in 1 large egg, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon heavy cream (or almond milk) until smooth.
- Add dry ingredients. Stir in 3 tablespoons almond flour, 1/2 teaspoon coconut flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 1 1/2 to 2 tablespoons granulated keto sweetener, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and a small pinch of salt. Mix until just combined, with no dry pockets.
- Check thickness. The batter should be thick but scoopable. If it seems too thick, add 1 teaspoon more cream or milk. If too thin, add a pinch more almond flour.
- Microwave carefully. Cook on high for 60–75 seconds. Start checking at 55 seconds. The top should look set and spring back lightly when touched. Avoid overcooking.
- Rest briefly. Let the cake sit for 1 minute. This helps it finish setting and stay moist.
- Optional quick frosting. Mix 1 tablespoon softened cream cheese with 1–2 teaspoons powdered keto sweetener, a splash of cream, and a pinch of cinnamon. Spread on top or dollop it in the center.
- Serve warm. Enjoy straight from the mug or loosen the edges and flip onto a plate.
Why This Recipe Works
This mug cake balances moist, cake-like texture with a rich cinnamon flavor using low-carb ingredients. Almond flour and a touch of coconut flour create structure without becoming dry or crumbly.
A little butter adds tenderness and richness, while an egg gives lift. Cinnamon and vanilla make it taste like cozy comfort food, and a keto-friendly sweetener keeps it sugar-free. Best of all, it cooks in about 60–75 seconds, so you get instant satisfaction.
Shopping List
- Almond flour (finely blanched)
- Coconut flour
- Baking powder (aluminum-free)
- Cinnamon (ground)
- Granulated keto sweetener (erythritol, allulose, or a blend)
- Salt (a pinch)
- Egg (large)
- Unsalted butter (or coconut oil)
- Vanilla extract
- Heavy cream or unsweetened almond milk (for moisture)
- Optional topping: cream cheese, powdered keto sweetener, a dash of cinnamon, and a splash of cream for a quick frosting
How to Make It
- Choose the right mug. Use a microwave-safe mug that holds at least 12 ounces.
This gives the batter room to rise without overflowing.
- Melt the butter. Add 1 tablespoon butter to the mug and microwave for 15–20 seconds until melted. Swirl it around to lightly coat the sides.
- Mix the wet ingredients. Whisk in 1 large egg, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon heavy cream (or almond milk) until smooth.
- Add dry ingredients. Stir in 3 tablespoons almond flour, 1/2 teaspoon coconut flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 1 1/2 to 2 tablespoons granulated keto sweetener, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and a small pinch of salt. Mix until just combined, with no dry pockets.
- Check thickness. The batter should be thick but scoopable.
If it seems too thick, add 1 teaspoon more cream or milk. If too thin, add a pinch more almond flour.
- Microwave carefully. Cook on high for 60–75 seconds. Start checking at 55 seconds.
The top should look set and spring back lightly when touched. Avoid overcooking.
- Rest briefly. Let the cake sit for 1 minute. This helps it finish setting and stay moist.
- Optional quick frosting. Mix 1 tablespoon softened cream cheese with 1–2 teaspoons powdered keto sweetener, a splash of cream, and a pinch of cinnamon.
Spread on top or dollop it in the center.
- Serve warm. Enjoy straight from the mug or loosen the edges and flip onto a plate.
Storage Instructions
This cake is best fresh, but you can make a dry mix ahead: combine almond flour, coconut flour, sweetener, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt in small jars or bags. Store at room temperature for up to 1 month. When ready to make, add butter, egg, vanilla, and cream and cook as usual.
If you have leftovers (rare, but it happens), cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Rewarm gently in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. The texture is best on day one.
Health Benefits
- Low in carbs: Almond and coconut flours keep net carbs down compared to wheat flour.
- Higher in healthy fats: Butter and almond flour add satiating fats, which can help reduce snacking.
- No added sugar: Keto sweeteners offer sweetness without spiking blood sugar.
- Gluten-free: Suitable for those avoiding gluten, as long as all ingredients are certified gluten-free if needed.
- Portion controlled: Built-in single serving helps prevent overeating while still feeling indulgent.
What Not to Do
- Don’t skip the coconut flour. Even a small amount helps with structure and moisture balance. Leaving it out can make the cake dense or greasy.
- Don’t overcook. A few extra seconds can turn it rubbery.
Check early and stop as soon as it’s set in the center.
- Don’t overmix. Stir just until the batter is combined. Overmixing can make it tough.
- Don’t use too small a mug. The batter needs room to rise. Overflow is messy and cooks unevenly.
- Don’t rely on liquid sweeteners alone. They can throw off the moisture.
Use a granulated keto sweetener for the best crumb.
Recipe Variations
- Cinnamon Roll Swirl: Stir together 1 teaspoon melted butter, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon sweetener. Swirl it into the batter before cooking.
- Pecan Crunch: Add 1 tablespoon chopped pecans to the batter and sprinkle a few on top before microwaving.
- Vanilla Glaze: Mix powdered keto sweetener with a splash of cream and vanilla. Drizzle over the warm cake.
- Apple-Pie Vibes (Still Keto): Add a pinch of nutmeg and allspice, plus a few diced zucchini bits sautéed in butter and cinnamon for texture without the carbs.
- Mocha Cinnamon: Add 1 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder and a pinch of instant coffee for a warm, spiced mocha twist.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil instead of butter and unsweetened almond or coconut milk instead of cream.
FAQ
Can I bake this in the oven instead of the microwave?
Yes.
Pour the batter into a small oven-safe ramekin and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes, or until set in the center. Keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking.
Which keto sweetener works best?
Erythritol or a blend with monk fruit works well for a classic texture. Allulose gives a softer, more moist crumb but can brown faster.
Use what you like, and adjust sweetness to taste.
Can I make it egg-free?
You can try a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flax + 2.5 tablespoons water, rested 5 minutes), but expect a denser texture. Microwave time may vary slightly. It’s still tasty, just less fluffy.
How many carbs are in this mug cake?
Totals vary by brand and portion size, but most versions come in around 4–6 net carbs per serving without frosting.
Check your specific ingredient labels for the most accurate count.
Why did my cake turn out dry?
It was likely overcooked, or the batter was too thick. Next time, reduce the microwave time by 5–10 seconds and add a teaspoon more cream or almond milk to the batter.
Can I double the recipe?
It’s better to make two separate mugs. Doubling in one mug often leads to uneven cooking.
If you do double, increase cook time in short bursts and check frequently.
Is coconut flour necessary?
A small amount makes a big difference. It absorbs moisture and helps the cake set properly. If you must omit it, add an extra tablespoon of almond flour and cook a little less, but expect a softer texture.
In Conclusion
This Keto Cinnamon Mug Cake is the kind of recipe you keep on standby for quick comfort. It’s simple, warm, and satisfying, with ingredients you probably already have. In just a minute, you’ll have a low-carb dessert that actually tastes like cake—not a compromise. Keep a few dry mixes ready, and you’ll always be one minute away from a cozy treat.
Printable Recipe Card
Want just the essential recipe details without scrolling through the article? Get our printable recipe card with just the ingredients and instructions.