Name: Healthy Gluten Free Mug Cake
Prep time: 3 min
Cook time: 2 min
Total time: 5 min
Ingredients: 1/4 cup almond flour; 2 tablespoons maple syrup; 1 large egg; 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil, or any vegetable oil; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

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We LOVE a healthy sweet treat around here, and this gluten free mug cake fits right in! If you know me, you know I’m a total dessert person. I eat dessert quite literally every single night. Lately, my go-to simple dessert recipes have been my healthy gluten free cookie dough, or if I have a few extra minutes I’ll bake these one-bowl gluten free almond flour chocolate chip cookies (SO GOOD!). But now, I’m super excited to add this 6-ingredient gluten free mug cake to the rotation!

This recipe is gluten-free, paleo, and dairy-free! But still perfectly sweet and totally indulgent. It’s also one of those recipes you can customize however you’d like. I love adding a small handful of chocolate chips to mine for a chocolate chip mug cake. Or, when I’m feeling festive, I’ll mix in a tablespoon of rainbow sprinkles! However you serve it, I guarantee you’ll love it.

overhead image of healthy gluten free mug cake with chocolate chips on top. — Here’s a link to the microwave-safe mugs I used for this recipe!

What You’ll Need To Make A Healthy Gluten Free Mug Cake

Almond Flour: Almond flour serves as the base for this mug cake, providing a nutty flavor and tender texture. It’s also a great gluten-free alternative to traditional flour. I buy my almond flour in bulk, so I always have some on-hand for this recipe!

Maple Syrup: Sweeten your mug cake naturally with maple syrup, adding a touch of sweetness without refined sugars.

Egg: A large egg helps bind the ingredients together and provides structure and extra fluffiness to the mug cake.

Coconut Oil: Melted coconut oil adds moisture to the cake, resulting in a soft and fluffy texture. Feel free to use any oil or melted butter of your choice if coconut oil isn’t available.

Vanilla Extract: Enhance the flavor of your mug cake with a splash of vanilla extract, adding depth and richness!

Baking Powder: Baking powder is a pantry stables, and it helps this gluten free mug cake rise and become light and airy.

healthy gluten free mug cake ingredients laid out on a table.

Tips and Tricks

Ensure all ingredients are well combined to prevent any pockets of unmixed flour or egg in your mug cake. Use a fork or small whisk to thoroughly whisk the batter until smooth.
Microwave cooking times may vary, so keep an eye on your mug cake as it cooks. If the cake looks like it’s about to overflow, pause the microwave and allow it to settle before continuing to cook.
After microwaving, resist the temptation to dive right into your mug cake. Let it cool for a few minutes to avoid burning your mouth! Trust me, learn from my mistakes.

How To Bake It In The Oven Instead

Preheat the oven to 350° Fahrenheit.
Whisk together all ingredients in an oven-safe mug or ramekin.
Bake for 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted down the center of the mug cake comes out clean.
Let it cool for a few minutes, then enjoy!

Make This Gluten-Free Mug Cake Vegan (No Egg)

For a vegan version of this recipe, simply replace the egg with 2 tablespoons of apple sauce or 2 tablespoons of non-dairy milk. The cake won’t rise quite as much, but it’ll taste just as delicious!