Introduction
Apple Cinnamon Cottage Cheese Mug Cake is the perfect solution when you’re craving something warm, cozy, and sweet—but don’t want to bake a full cake or spend much time in the kitchen. Made in minutes using a microwave, this single-serve dessert delivers comforting apple-cinnamon flavor with a protein boost from cottage cheese, making it both satisfying and nourishing.
What sets this mug cake apart is its texture and balance. Blended cottage cheese creates a creamy, tender crumb without the heaviness of butter or cream, while diced apples add moisture and natural sweetness. Cinnamon brings that classic fall warmth, making this feel like a mini apple cake straight from the oven—only much faster.
This recipe is ideal for busy mornings, late-night cravings, or healthier dessert options. It’s customizable, portion-controlled, and requires minimal ingredients, most of which you likely already have on hand. Whether you’re focused on protein intake, quick desserts, or cozy comfort in a mug, this cake checks all the boxes.
If you’ve never baked with cottage cheese before, this mug cake is the perfect introduction—easy, forgiving, and surprisingly delicious.
Ingredients
½ cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
1 large egg
3 tablespoons oat flour or all-purpose flour
1–2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (to taste)
¼ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt
¼ cup apple, finely diced (peeled or unpeeled)
Optional: pinch of nutmeg or vanilla extract
Preparation
Step 1: Blend the Base
Add cottage cheese and egg to a blender or food processor. Blend until completely smooth and creamy with no visible curds.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
Pour the blended mixture into a microwave-safe mug. Add flour, sweetener, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and any optional flavorings. Stir until fully combined and smooth.
Step 3: Add the Apples
Fold in the finely diced apples, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
Step 4: Microwave the Cake
Microwave on high for 60–90 seconds, depending on your microwave’s power. The cake should rise, look set on top, and be slightly moist in the center.
Step 5: Rest and Enjoy
Let the mug cake sit for 1 minute before eating. This allows it to finish setting and improves texture.
Variations
Apple Pie Mug Cake: Add a pinch of nutmeg and clove.
Protein Boost Version: Add 1 tablespoon vanilla protein powder and reduce flour slightly.
Gluten-Free Option: Use oat flour or almond flour.
Extra Sweet Dessert: Add chocolate chips or white chocolate chunks.
Low-Sugar Version: Use a sugar-free sweetener or mashed ripe apple.
Cooking Notes
Blending cottage cheese is key for a smooth texture.
Dice apples very small so they cook fully in the microwave.
Avoid overcooking to prevent dryness.
Microwave times vary—start low and add time if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy Apple Cinnamon Cottage Cheese Mug Cake straight from the mug, or top with Greek yogurt, a drizzle of honey, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of cinnamon. It’s perfect as a quick breakfast, afternoon snack, or warm dessert.
Tips
Use a wide mug to prevent overflow.
Let the cake rest briefly before eating.
Adjust sweetness based on apple variety.
Double ingredients and split between two mugs if desired.
Prep Time
5 minutes
Cooking Time
1–2 minutes
Total Time
7 minutes
Nutritional Information (Approximate per mug)
Calories: 260
Protein: 18g
Sodium: 320mg
FAQs
Does this mug cake taste like cottage cheese?
No, once blended and cooked, the cottage cheese creates a creamy texture without a strong cheese flavor.
Can I bake this instead of microwaving?
Yes, bake in a ramekin at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes.
What apples work best?
Sweet apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp work well, but any variety can be used.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Cottage cheese is essential for texture, but dairy-free alternatives may work with adjustments.
Conclusion
Apple Cinnamon Cottage Cheese Mug Cake is a fast, comforting, and protein-rich dessert that proves healthy treats can still feel indulgent. With warm spices, tender apples, and a soft cake-like texture, this single-serve recipe delivers big flavor in just minutes. Whether you need a quick breakfast or a cozy dessert, this mug cake is an easy win you’ll come back to again and again.
Print
Apple Cinnamon Cottage Cheese Mug Cake
Ingredients
-
½ cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
-
1 large egg
-
3 tablespoons oat flour or all-purpose flour
-
1–2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (to taste)
-
¼ teaspoon baking powder
-
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
-
Pinch of salt
-
¼ cup apple, finely diced (peeled or unpeeled)
-
Optional: pinch of nutmeg or vanilla extract
Instructions
Add cottage cheese and egg to a blender or food processor. Blend until completely smooth and creamy with no visible curds.
Pour the blended mixture into a microwave-safe mug. Add flour, sweetener, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and any optional flavorings. Stir until fully combined and smooth.
Fold in the finely diced apples, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
Microwave on high for 60–90 seconds, depending on your microwave’s power. The cake should rise, look set on top, and be slightly moist in the center.
Let the mug cake sit for 1 minute before eating. This allows it to finish setting and improves texture.
Notes
-
Blending cottage cheese is key for a smooth texture.
-
Dice apples very small so they cook fully in the microwave.
-
Avoid overcooking to prevent dryness.
-
Microwave times vary—start low and add time if needed.