
Nothing beats the smell of a fresh glaze donut in the morning but sometimes you just want the treat without making a whole batch This glaze donut mug cake delivers that flavor in minutes right from your microwave for that cozy bakery feeling with zero fuss
The first time I made this mug cake I woke up craving donuts before work and was amazed how well the mug cake captured all the nostalgic flavors with almost no cleanup
Ingredients
- AllPurpose Flour: this is your main structure gives the cake its tender springy crumb Just use regular unbleached and sift for best texture if possible
- Sugar: brings the sweet donut flavor Try to use fine cane sugar for extra smoothness
- Baking Powder: ensures your cake rises and gets fluffy Check your baking powder is fresh for the lightest crumb
- Milk: adds moisture and richness Whole milk is ideal for the best flavor but any will work
- Melted Butter: gives richness and softness opt for real unsalted butter avoid margarine for best results
- Vanilla Extract: gives true donut aroma pick a pure vanilla rather than imitation if you can
- Powdered Sugar: creates that perfect donut glaze Sift first to avoid lumps in your glaze
- Extra Milk: softens the glaze just enough Choose the same milk used in your mug cake
- Extra Vanilla: pulls the glaze together for classic taste use pure extract for best results
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- Whisk together the three tablespoons milk three tablespoons melted butter two tablespoons sugar and half teaspoon vanilla extract in a medium bowl Mix until the sugar begins to dissolve and your mixture looks creamy and blended This builds a delicious flavor base and helps your cake bake evenly
- Add Dry Ingredients:
- Gently blend in one quarter cup all purpose flour and one quarter teaspoon baking powder Stir until the batter is smooth without any lumps Make sure you do not overmix so your mug cake stays soft and fluffy
- Fill the Mug:
- Pour the batter into a microwave safe mug leaving about an inch of space at the top to avoid any overflow as your cake cooks Use a mug at least twelve ounces to be safe
- Microwave:
- Microwave on high power for one to two minutes Watch closely at the ninety second mark The cake should look set and firm on top but still moist If undercooked give it another ten seconds at a time
- Make and Apply Glaze:
- For the glaze whisk one tablespoon powdered sugar with one teaspoon milk and a quarter teaspoon vanilla extract in a small bowl Mix until smooth and pourable as thick or thin as you like Drizzle over the warm mug cake right away for best absorption

My favorite part is swirling the glaze on when the cake is still warm The sweet glaze sinks in just like a real donut My youngest always asks to lick the spoon after
Storage Tips
This mug cake is best eaten right away while warm and fluffy If you must save it cover the mug with plastic wrap after cooling and store in the fridge for up to one day To reheat microwave for ten to fifteen seconds and freshen with extra glaze
Ingredient Substitutions
No butter Use coconut oil or a neutral vegetable oil for a dairyfree version Almond or oat milk works well too Just skip imitation vanilla if you can because real vanilla truly elevates the flavor
Serving Suggestions
Top with a few sprinkles or cinnamon sugar before glazing for fun flair If serving for dessert add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or sliced berries for contrast

Cultural Context
This mug cake is a shortcut version of the classic American yeastraised donut It keeps the comforting vanilla notes and signature sweetness but skips deep frying making it a popular choice for quick homemade breakfasts
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I prevent the mug cake from overflowing?
Leave some space at the top of your mug when pouring in the batter. This allows the cake to rise without spilling over during microwaving.
- → What texture should I expect from the mug cake?
Expect a soft, fluffy texture similar to a classic cake donut. The glaze adds a sweet, slightly sticky finish on top.
- → Can I substitute the all-purpose flour?
Yes, you may use whole wheat or gluten-free flour, although the texture might vary slightly from the original.
- → How do I know when the mug cake is done?
The top should look set and spring back lightly when touched. If the center looks liquid, microwave in short intervals until cooked through.
- → Can I add toppings to this mug cake?
Feel free to sprinkle cinnamon, colored sprinkles, or extra glaze for added fun and flavor after microwaving.