Party of one for this single serving of pumpkin spice goodness.
In season four of the classic NBC sitcom Parks and Recreation, Tom and Donna indulge in a self-care tradition they’ve dubbed “Treat Yo Self.” In the course of one day, they treat themselves to massages, luxury purchases, and (naturally) mimosas. It’s all in the name of emotional well-being. Of course, it’s over the top, but they’re on to something there. Even if you don’t splurge at boutiques and salons, you can still “treat yo self” with a simple homemade treat. Custom-made, a single serving, and so delicious, mug cakes are the perfect treat.
Pumpkin mug cakes have it all: the tender cake crumb, the wonderfully cozy pumpkin spice flavor, and the (optional) addition of nuts or chocolate chips. Since mug cakes are a single serving, you don’t have the option to overindulge, don’t need to worry about leftovers calling your name late at night, and can enjoy a sweet treat made just the way you like it.
Treat yourself to a pumpkin mug cake today. It’s perfect for a chilly fall evening or any time of year when you want something sweet but homemade. You will love the fall vibes and vibrant flavor of this mug cake. Pumpkin mug cake is ready in under ten minutes, so you can go from that craving to indulgence in no time. The hardest thing about this recipe is making time for yourself—but you’re worth it! So enjoy a pumpkin mug cake today.
Tips for the perfect mug cake
While mug cakes are famously easy and quick to make, sometimes you end up with a rubbery texture or powdery ingredients not fully incorporated into the cake batter. How to avoid those pitfalls? Easy. First, make sure you pick a large mug (at least 15 ounces) so that there is room for the cake batter to rise. Secondly, in step two, when you add the wet ingredients, use a mini spatula to scrape the bottom and sides of the mug. A spoon or fork just won’t get all the dry ingredients incorporated. Tilt the mug to make sure everything is mixed. Finally, don’t overcook it! Start checking for doneness at 60 seconds.
How do I store leftovers?
In the rare case when you have leftovers, simply place plastic wrap tightly over the top of the mug once the cake has cooled. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave until warmed through, being careful not to overcook. You can also freeze leftovers. Remove the cake from the mug, wrap it in plastic wrap, and then place it in a resealable freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months and reheat gently according to the instructions above.
Serving suggestions
Pumpkin mug cake with chocolate chips is my favorite combo, but you can certainly mix in chopped walnuts or pecans as well. For a true indulgence, top your pumpkin mug cake with a scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream or Whipped Cream Cheese. If you really love pumpkin flavor, consider topping your mug cake with a healthy dollop of Pumpkin Whipped Cream. It makes for the perfect treat to curl up with by your favorite window and watch the autumn leaves fall!
Pumpkin Mug Cake
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 4 teaspoons pumpkin purée
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Chocolate chips or nuts optional
Instructions
- In a large mug, mix together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, and pumpkin pie spice.
- Stir in the milk, pumpkin purée, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth, ensuring to scrape the bottom of the mug to mix thoroughly. Sprinkle chocolate chips or nuts on top, if desired, and gently press them into the batter.
- Microwave on high for 60-90 seconds, or until the cake is set but still slightly moist on top. Cooking time will vary depending on your microwave. Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.
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