How to Make a 3 Ingredient Cinnamon Roll Mug Cake

This 3 ingredient cinnamon roll mug cake has become one of my favorite comfort desserts. It’s quick, warm, and hits all the nostalgic notes of a classic cinnamon roll without all the work. I created it one rainy morning in my small Oregon kitchen with just a mug, three pantry ingredients, and a craving I couldn’t ignore.

With no eggs, no flour, and no time to waste, I stirred everything into a mug and microwaved it. In under a minute, the scent of cinnamon filled the room and that’s when I knew I had something special. This 3 ingredient cinnamon roll mug cake was fluffy, sweet, and perfectly spiced. No glaze needed, though you can always add one.

If you’ve ever wanted a fast fix for your cinnamon roll cravings, this easy cinnamon mug cake is for you. It’s great as a breakfast treat, midnight snack, or even a last-minute dessert when guests are over. The best part? You likely already have everything in your pantry.

This 3-ingredient microwave cake also makes a perfect starting point if you’re new to mug baking. And if you’re looking for other quick mug treats, check out the cinnamon roll mug cake another reader favorite with bold flavor and simple prep.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with someone you love, this 3 ingredient cinnamon roll mug cake proves that warm moments can come from the simplest recipes.

3 Ingredient Cinnamon Roll Mug Cake – Quick & Cozy

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This 3 ingredient cinnamon roll mug cake is a quick, cozy, single-serve dessert made with self-rising flour, milk, and cinnamon sugar ready in just 2 minutes.

• Total Time: 2 minutes
• Yield: 1 mug cake

Ingredients

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1/4 cup self-rising flour or pancake mix
1/4 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
1 tablespoon cinnamon sugar

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Instructions

Spray a microwave-safe mug with nonstick spray.
Add self-rising flour and milk to the mug.
Stir until the mixture is fully combined and smooth.
Sprinkle cinnamon sugar evenly over the top of the batter.
Use a toothpick or knife to gently swirl the sugar into the batter without fully mixing.
Microwave for 45–60 seconds, depending on your microwave’s wattage.
Allow to rest for 30 seconds before serving.
Enjoy warm directly from the mug.

Notes

Use any milk you prefer — oat, almond, or regular.
For added richness, add a teaspoon of butter or drizzle with glaze.
Let it sit briefly after microwaving to finish setting internally.
For homemade self-rising flour, mix 1/4 cup all-purpose flour with 1/2 tsp baking powder and a pinch of salt.

• Author: Rita
• Prep Time: 1 minute
• Cook Time: 1 minute
• Category: Vanilla & Spice Mug Cakes
• Method: Microwave
• Cuisine: American

The Magic Behind Just 3 Ingredients

What’s Inside This 3 Ingredient Cinnamon Roll Mug Cake?

One of the most surprising things about this 3 ingredient cinnamon roll mug cake is how much flavor it delivers from just a few pantry staples. It feels like kitchen alchemy: three simple ingredients blend into something sweet, soft, and cinnamon-rich with no stress and no mess.

So, what are the ingredients? You’ll need:

• Self-rising flour or pancake mix (works as both your flour and leavening agent)
• Milk (any kind dairy, oat, or almond adds moisture and richness)
• Cinnamon sugar mix (gives it that nostalgic roll flavor)

There’s no egg, butter, or oil needed. That’s what makes this easy cinnamon mug cake such a game-changer. You still get soft texture, a warm cinnamon swirl, and that just-baked comfort all in under two minutes.

This 3 ingredient cinnamon roll mug cake also works with plenty of variations. Add a pinch of nutmeg, swap in coconut milk, or drizzle a simple glaze on top. But even in its basic form, this mug cake delivers the classic cinnamon roll experience without any of the wait.

Why It Works Without Eggs, Oil, or Baking Powder

Many recipes fall apart when you start removing eggs or oil but this one holds strong. That’s because self-rising flour already includes baking powder, so it gives the lift your 3 ingredient cinnamon roll mug cake needs. And the milk brings enough moisture to hold it together, while the cinnamon sugar melts into the batter to create soft, gooey pockets of flavor.

It’s a clever formula. No egg means it’s allergy-friendly. No oil means it’s lighter and quicker. And because you’re skipping multiple steps, this 3-ingredient microwave cake can be whipped up anytime, even on your busiest mornings.

That’s the beauty of this recipe: it delivers the warmth and satisfaction of a traditional cinnamon roll in a fraction of the time. It’s not just simple it’s smart.

Step-by-Step: From Mug to Microwave

Mixing the Perfect Cinnamon Swirl Mug Cake

Making this 3 ingredient cinnamon roll mug cake is almost as satisfying as eating it. The simplicity of the process is what makes it such a go-to in my kitchen. Whether it’s early morning or late at night, all you need is a mug, a fork, and a microwave.

Start by misting your mug with nonstick spray to avoid sticking. Add your self-rising flour or pancake mix, pour in your milk, and give it a good stir. The batter should be smooth but not runny. Then, sprinkle cinnamon sugar directly on top. Swirl it gently with a toothpick or knife to create that familiar cinnamon roll swirl pattern.

It takes less than 60 seconds to prep and that’s what I love most. No need for multiple bowls or extra cleanup. Just one mug, one minute, and one very sweet result.

Microwaving for the Softest Mug Cake Texture

Now comes the microwave magic. Every microwave is slightly different, but generally, this 3 ingredient cinnamon roll mug cake cooks best at 45–60 seconds on high in a standard 950-watt microwave. Keep an eye on it the cake should rise but not overflow.

Don’t overcook it. The center should look slightly moist when it’s done; it will finish cooking as it cools. That helps keep the texture soft and fluffy rather than dry or rubbery. Let it sit for about 30 seconds before digging in so the cinnamon swirl settles.

For extra comfort, add a drizzle of icing, a pat of butter, or even a dollop of whipped cream if you’re feeling indulgent.

And if you’re in the mood to try something with deeper chocolate flavor but the same quick process, you’ll love the cottage cheese cinnamon roll mug cake it’s another cozy, microwave-friendly favorite on the blog.

The beauty of this 3-ingredient microwave cake is that it always delivers even on your most hectic mornings. No planning. No prep. Just mix, microwave, and enjoy.

Variations, Pairings & Make-Ahead Tips

Simple Ways to Upgrade Your 3 Ingredient Cinnamon Roll Mug Cake

This 3 ingredient cinnamon roll mug cake is warm and delicious on its own, but a few simple upgrades can turn it into something really special. Add a pat of butter before microwaving to create a richer, more indulgent flavor. It melts into the batter and gives a classic cinnamon roll finish all from your microwave.

Need glaze? Just mix powdered sugar with a little milk and vanilla for a quick cinnamon roll–style topping. Or thin cream cheese with milk and sweetener for a tangy glaze. Drizzle it on your warm cake and you’ll never miss the bakery.

Here are a few more fun ideas to customize your cinnamon mug cake:

• Swirl in maple syrup for a deeper sweetness
• Use nutmeg or pumpkin spice for fall flavor
• Stir in chopped pecans, walnuts, or raisins
• Add a dash of vanilla extract for aroma and warmth

Whether you stick with the original or build your own twist, this 3 ingredient cinnamon roll mug cake keeps things fast and flexible.

Can You Make It Ahead or Store It?

Yes with a few smart shortcuts. You can pre-mix the dry ingredients and store them in a small jar or bag. When it’s time to bake, just add milk, cinnamon sugar, stir, and microwave. This way, your favorite 3 ingredient cinnamon roll mug cake is always just a minute away.

Leftovers (if you ever have any) can be stored covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Reheat for 10–15 seconds and enjoy again — it stays soft and flavorful.

But honestly? This easy cinnamon mug cake is best when it’s fresh from the microwave, warm and swirled with cinnamon. For another super-simple dessert, you can try the 3 ingredient protein mug cake vanilla one of the most-loved recipes on the blog.

The beauty of this 3 ingredient cinnamon roll mug cake is how much it delivers in just minutes. No stress. No baking trays. Just a microwave and your favorite mug.

How to Serve Your 3 Ingredient Cinnamon Roll Mug Cake

The best part about this 3 ingredient cinnamon roll mug cake? It’s ready to serve right out of the microwave. Just grab a spoon and enjoy it warm that’s when the cinnamon sugar swirl is perfectly melty and the center is soft and tender.

If you’re feeling extra cozy, drizzle a quick glaze over the top. A simple mix of powdered sugar and milk can turn this into a full cinnamon roll experience in under two minutes. For a richer flavor, try a spoonful of softened cream cheese glaze or even a splash of maple syrup.

This mug cake also pairs beautifully with coffee, a chai latte, or even a warm mug of vanilla almond milk. It’s the kind of sweet treat that fits into any time of day morning, midnight, or anything in between.

Final Thoughts: A Mug Cake That Does More With Less

This 3 ingredient cinnamon roll mug cake proves that baking doesn’t need to be complicated to be comforting. With just a mug, three ingredients, and a microwave, you can create a moment of sweetness whenever you need it most.

Whether you’re navigating a busy day, craving something cozy after dinner, or simply want a quick treat, this recipe offers everything you love about cinnamon rolls minus the wait, dishes, and dough.

And if you’re curious to try more ultra-easy desserts like this, you’ll love the cake in a mug no vanilla extract. It’s another fast favorite that proves simple really is sweet.

So the next time you’re short on time but not on cravings, reach for your favorite mug, stir in the basics, and let the microwave work its magic. Sweet comfort doesn’t have to be complicated sometimes, it’s just three ingredients away.

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