Across Canada and the United States, busy days call for snacks that feel comforting but don’t demand a pile of dishes. Mug meals let you whip up something warm and satisfying in minutes, with almost no cleanup. These three mug recipes prove you can have a tasty treat fast, using ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen.
Here are three ultra simple mug recipes you can make whenever a craving hits—a fast, flavorful solution with virtually no cleanup.
Cinnamon Roll in a Cup
What you will need:
- 2 tbsp applesauce
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp buttermilk
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup + 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 tbsp packed light-brown sugar
- 3/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 dash ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/8 tsp salt
How to prepare:
- In the mug of your choice, mix together all the ingredients with a fork until smooth
- Microwave on high for 1 minute, then check to see if it’s done
- If it’s not quite done, microwave for another 15 seconds
- Serve warm
For a quick finishing touch, whisk together 1 tablespoon softened cream cheese, 2 tablespoons powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon milk to make a simple icing that adds a creamy drizzle on top.
Instant Mug O’ Mac and Cheese
What you will need:
- 1/3 cup pasta
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
How to prepare:
- Place pasta and water in a microwave-safe mug. Microwave on high for 1 minute; the water may foam and overflow, which is normal
- Stir and microwave in short intervals until the water is absorbed and the pasta is tender
- Remove from microwave and stir in the milk and cheese
- Microwave for 1 minute more
- Stir to melt the cheese into a creamy sauce and enjoy
Banana Bread in a Mug
What you will need:
- Non-stick cooking spray
- 3 tbsp flour
- 1 tbsp + 1 tsp sugar
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp baking powder
- 1/8 tsp baking soda
- 1 egg
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp milk
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
How to prepare:
- Spray the inside of your mug with the cooking spray
- Whisk the flour, sugar, salt, baking powder and soda in the mug
- Add the egg and whisk until everything is nicely combined
- Mix in the vanilla, mashed banana, oil and milk
- Microwave for about 3 minutes, watching as it rises and sets
- Let cool briefly and then enjoy a warm, banana-packed treat
If these mug ideas spark your curiosity, you can explore more quick mug meals like meaty mugs, French toast in a cup, and a fast microwave cheesecake. Share your own mug-friendly ideas in the comments below and you might inspire others in the community.