This Carrot Cake Mug Cake is a sweet, delicious, and eggless microwave mug cake dessert that gets done in just 2 minutes. It is an ideal single-serve dessert that is perfect for Easter or any occasion.
This absolutely delectable, sweet, and easy-to-make carrot mug cake is unbelievably simple and quick in the microwave.
Craft edible sculptures using ingredients like sugar or chocolate for a visually stunning centerpiece.
Table of contents
If you are looking for a carrot cake in a mug recipe, then you are in the right place. Because this recipe makes a fail-proof carrot mug cake that actually tastes like a real carrot cake!
Prepared with basic ingredients, it can be customized according to your taste preference! Plus, it is a perfect single serving Easter party dessert that everyone will love.
About Carrot Cake Mug Cake
This easy carrot mug cake recipe is an exquisite single serving dessert for those who do not want to go overboard making a full-sized traditional carrot cake, or if you just want to indulge in a delectable cake without overindulging.
It is also a wonderful choice for those who do not have an oven but still want to relish some carrot mug cake.
Another great thing about this mug cake is that it is made with basic ingredients and can easily be customized according to your taste buds. Since it is made with grated carrots it is a great source of nutrients and fiber.
This carrot mug cake recipe does not use any eggs and can be made with less sugar or using sugar-free alternatives. Thus, it is also a healthier option.
Easter is a time for celebrations and delicious treats. Traditional desserts are great, but sometimes we really need a quick fix, and this carrot cake mug cake fits the bill. So, this year, why not try a carrot cake mug cake?
Try it and relish a deliciously satisfying single-serve dessert ready in just 2 minutes!
How to make Carrot Mug Cake
To make a carrot cake mug cake, you will need to add all the ingredients to a microwave safe mug, whisk the ingredients and microwave. Let it cool down, top with your favorite toppings and enjoy! Or have it warm if you prefer it without frosting.
This is a very versatile recipe that can easily be customized and made using gluten-free or vegan alternatives. For example, to make carrot cake mug cake vegan, swap the milk with dairy-free milk such as unsweetened almond milk, coconut milk, soy milk or oat milk. Or replace brown sugar with maple syrup to make carrot cake mug cake healthy.
If you are following a gluten-free diet, then instead of all-purpose flour you can use gluten-free flour blend.
If you like carrot cake flavored desserts, then you should definitely try these healthy carrot cake balls. Or if you want to try and mug dessert then Brownie in a Mug, Chocolate Molten Lava Mug Cake, or Rose Mug Cake are great options for you.
This Carrot Mug Cake
✓ is quick and easy to make
✓ is egg-free and moist
✓ is gratifying and delicious
✓ is ready in just 2 minutes
✓ does not need any oven
✓ makes single serving
✓ can easily be doubled or tripled
✓ is a versatile recipe
✓ can also be made vegan and gluten-free
✓ makes a lovely Easter dessert
✓ is an excellent choice for portion control
✓ is a lovely dessert to satisfy a sweet craving
Carrot Cake Mug Cake Ingredients
This mug cake is made with some easily available ingredients. Here are the needs ingredients you will need to make carrot cake:
- Flour: I have used regular all-purpose flour for this recipe. You can also use gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make it gluten-free. Whole wheat flour can also be used as a healthier alternative, because it is a reliable source of fiber, minerals and vitamins.
It will make a slightly denser cake.
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Shredded carrot: This is the key ingredient of this mug cake recipe. It adds tenderness, moisture, natural sweetness, and texture to this carrot cake. I have used a box grater to grate carrots. You can also use pre-shredded carrots for this recipe.
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Sweetener: I have used 2 tablespoons of raw light brown sugar for this recipe, as it gives a perfect brownish carrot cake color, caramel-like taste, and moist texture to this mug cake. You can add 3 tablespoons of sugar to make it sweeter.
You can also use muscovado or granulated white sugar. For a healthier alternative, you can also add maple syrup.
- Spices: The addition of sweet-smelling spices add some warmth, subtle aroma, and deep flavors to the cake. You will need ground cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg to make this mug cake.
For a more depth of flavors, you can also add a pinch of ground ginger or allspice to this cake.
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Vanilla extract: A dash of vanilla extract adds a subtle floral aroma to the cake, elevating its overall flavor.
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Baking powder: It is added to rise the cake and make it fluffy. You will need 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder to make 1 serving.
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Melted butter: To add richness, moisture, and tenderness, you can either use unsalted melted butter or neutral vegetable oil.
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Milk: This adds moisture to the cake and helps to bind the ingredients together. Non-dairy milk can be used as a vegan option.
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Salt: Addition of a little salt intensifies the flavor of this carrot cake while balancing out the sweetness.
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Toppings: I have topped the cake with cream cheese frosting, grated carrot, and chopped walnuts. You can also decorate it with whipped cream or powdered sugar.
Variations
This cake tastes good as it is. But you can surely try some variants by adding or replacing some ingredients. Here are some options you can try to make it more interesting:
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Dried fruits: For a sweet fruity flavor, natural sweetness, chewiness, you can add some golden raisins or dried cranberries to the cake mixture.
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Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts give this cake a nice nutty flavor and crunchy texture. So, feel free to add about 1 tablespoon of chopped walnuts or pecans to this cake batter.
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Coconut: You can top the mug cake with coconut milk whipped cream, and shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
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Oat flour: If you are into oat cakes, or love gluten-free cakes then you can swap all-purpose flour with the same amount of oat flour.
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White chocolate chips: For an added sweetness and decadent chocolate twist, add some white chocolate chips to the cake batter before microwaving.
More Delicious Easter Desserts you can try are: Vermicelli Bird’s Nests, Vegan Chocolate Mousse with Aquafaba, No-Bake Cream Cheese Lemon Mousse, No Bake Mango Cheesecake, Chocolate Lava Cake, and Fruit and Nut Ice Cream.
Serving suggestions
This microwave carrot cake in a cup can be served warm without toppings, it tastes good. But if you want to go fancy, then added topping is advisable.
Once the carrot cake mug cake is cooked, let it cool completely, then top with cream cheese frosting. Also add grated carrots and chopped pecans/walnuts for an added flavor and texture. Alternatively, top with whipped cream or dust with icing sugar.
Storage suggestions
This mug cake tastes the best when served fresh. But you can surely store the leftovers for up to 2-3 days in the refrigerator. To refrigerate, let the mug cake cool. Once cooled, transfer the cake to an airtight container and refrigerate.
When you want to eat, reheat for 10 seconds to restore its soft texture and top with your favorite toppings and enjoy!
Freezing suggestions
This cake is best when eaten fresh. Plus, it does not take more than a few minutes, so you can make it fresh when you crave it. But if you want to make it in advance, then you can do it and freeze it for up to 1 month.
To freeze, let the cake have cooled down completely, transfer it to a plate and wrap in a plastic wrap. Then transfer it to an air-tight container or a freezer-safe bag and freeze.
When ready to serve, thaw the mug cake overnight in the refrigerator, and then reheat in the microwave for about 10 seconds before serving.
Carrot Cake Mug Cake Tips & Tricks
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Toppings: I have topped this carrot mug cake with cream cheese frosting, but you can surely top it with any of your favorite toppings. Other toppings that go well in this cake are whipped cream, icing sugar, vanilla ice cream, coconut blueberry ice cream, caramel sauce, or a drizzle of honey on top.
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Mix well: To get a perfect texture and avoid lumps, it is advised to mix the ingredients until everything is well combined.
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Use microwave-safe mug: Make sure that you use the microwave safe mug to prevent accidents.
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Adjust the cooking time: The cooking time may vary depending upon the microwave. So, start by cooking the mug cake for 1 minute to avoid overcooking it. Then check it and cook for 30 seconds. If the cake is still uncooked, you can microwave it for an additional 15-30 seconds until it is cooked through.
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Sweetness: The amount of sweetness can easily be adjusted according to your taste. So, feel free to increase or decrease the amount of sugar.
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Flour: All-purpose flour can be substituted by whole wheat flour, all-purpose gluten-free flour, or oat flour.
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Do not overcook: To avoid dry cake, make sure not to overcook it. The cake should be slightly moist when done.
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Check the doneness: You can check the doneness of cake by inserting a fork or a toothpick. If it comes out clean when inserted into the center of the cake, then it is ready. If it comes out with some batter, then cook it for a few more seconds or until cooked through.
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Let it cool: Let the cake cool completely before adding toppings. This will help to set the cake and will also hold the frosting without melting.
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Reheat: To restore the soft texture of the leftover cake, reheat it for about 10 seconds in the microwave before serving.
FAQ
Can I use water instead of milk?
The milk is added for richness and additional moisture. But you can surely use water instead of milk. However, keep in mind that the texture and taste of the mug cake will be different.
Can I make carrot cake mug cake without a microwave?
This is a microwave recipe, so it is best to make it in a microwave. But if you are not comfortable using a microwave, you can try baking it in the oven. To bake, use an oven-safe mug or a small ramekin.
Preheat the oven to 350°F/180°C and bake it for about 15-20 minutes or until the inserted toothpick comes out clean.
Can I air fry carrot cake mug cake?
An air-fryer can also be used to make this cake. To air fry, preheat the air fryer to 350°F/180°C and cook for about 10-15 minutes or until the inserted toothpick comes out clean.
Can I double or triple the recipe to make more servings?
Absolutely, doubling or tripling this mug cake recipe is possible. You can either make individual servings by dividing the batter evenly among several smaller mugs or use a larger microwave-safe container.
Can I substitute the all-purpose flour with another type of flour?
Yes, all-purpose flour can be replaced with whole wheat flour, oat flour, or gluten-free flour. The texture and taste of the mug cake will depend on the type of flour used.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
It is best to make and enjoy the mug cake fresh each time, but you can surely make this cake in advance. It stays fresh for up to 2-3 days in the refrigerator. Alternatively, you can mix in all the dry ingredients and store them in air-tight containers for up to 1 month.
Keep it stored in a cool dark place away from sunlight until you are ready to make the cake.
Can I use a different type of sweetener instead of sugar?
Yes, you can certainly use a different type of sweetener like white sugar, coconut sugar, muscovado sugar, maple syrup, honey, or agave nectar instead of sugar.
Carrot Cake Mug Cake (Step-by-step photo instructions)
How to Make Carrot Cake Mug Cake:
- In a microwave-safe mug, combine the melted butter/oil, milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, baking powder, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir or whisk to combine the ingredients until smooth.
- Next, add the flour and mix until well combined. Fold in the shredded carrots. You can also add 1 teaspoon of raisins, and 1 teaspoon of chopped walnuts. Microwave the mug cake for 1 minute and 30 seconds. If it's not fully cooked, microwave it for additional 15-30 seconds. To avoid dry cake, make sure not to overcook it.
- You can check the doneness of the cake by inserting a fork or a toothpick. If it comes out clean when inserted into the center of the cake, then it is ready. If it comes out with some batter, then cook it for a few more seconds or until cooked through. Let the carrot mug cake cool before adding the frosting. Top with cream cheese frosting, grated carrots, and chopped walnuts. Enjoy!
Recipe Card
Carrot Cake Mug Cake [Recipe]
★★★★★
(Rating: 5 from 7 reviews)
| Prep time 🕐 | Cook time 🕐 | Total time 🕐 |
|---|---|---|
| 3 mins | ||
| Category ☶ | Cuisine ♨ | Serves ☺ |
| Desserts | American | 1 |
| Nutrition Info ⊛ | Serving size ⊚ | |
| 321 calories | 1 |
INGREDIENTS
For carrot cake mug cake
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter or vegetable oil
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of ground nutmeg
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons grated carrots
For serving:
- Cream cheese frosting (optional)
- 1 teaspoon grated carrots
- 1 tablespoon chopped walnuts (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS:
How to Make Carrot Cake Mug Cake:
- In a microwave-safe mug, combine the melted butter/oil, milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, baking powder, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir or whisk to combine the ingredients until smooth.
- Next, add the flour and mix until well combined. Fold in the shredded carrots. You can also add 1 teaspoon of raisins, and 1 teaspoon of chopped walnuts. Microwave the mug cake for 1 minute and 30 seconds. If it's not fully cooked, microwave it for additional 15-30 seconds. To avoid dry cake, make sure not to overcook it.
- You can check the doneness of the cake by inserting a fork or a toothpick. If it comes out clean when inserted into the center of the cake, then it is ready. If it comes out with some batter, then cook it for a few more seconds or until cooked through. Let the carrot mug cake cool before adding the frosting. Top with cream cheese frosting, grated carrots, and chopped walnuts. Enjoy!
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NOTES:
- I have topped this carrot mug cake with cream cheese frosting, but you can surely top it with any of your favorite toppings. Other toppings that go well in this cake are whipped cream, icing sugar, vanilla ice cream, coconut blueberry ice cream, caramel sauce, or a drizzle of honey on top.
- All-purpose flour can be substituted by whole wheat flour, all-purpose gluten-free flour, or oat flour.
- To get a perfect texture and avoid lumps, it is advised to mix the ingredients until everything is well combined.
- Make sure that you use the microwave safe mug to prevent accidents.
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Author: Anupama
Recipe Source Link: https://www.mygingergarlickitchen.com/carrot-cake-mug-cake/