Cinnamon Roll in a Mug

There are days when you crave a gooey cinnamon roll but do not want to fuss with yeast or spend hours kneading and waiting for dough to rise. This cozy cinnamon roll in a mug hits the spot with almost no effort and just a handful of pantry basics. You get all the cinnamony swirls and sweet glaze in one cute serving, ready to eat in just minutes. Perfect for quick dessert cravings or even a special solo breakfast.

I first tried this when I needed comfort food after a long day, and it was love at first bite. Since then, this mug cinnamon roll has become my trusted snack for late-night sweet cravings because nothing is faster or cozier.

Ingredients

• All purpose flour: gives the dough its fluffy structure try to use a fresh bag for best rise
• Baking powder: helps everything puff up in the microwave check your tin is still good by seeing if it fizzes in water
• Brown sugar: adds moisture and caramelly flavor coconut sugar works too if you prefer
• Ground cinnamon: creates those classic rolling swirls choose a fresh spice for the best aroma
• Powdered sugar: melts into the luscious icing sift to prevent any lumps
• A tiny dab of neutral oil: makes sure your cinnamon roll pops right out of the mug
• Fine sea salt: subtly boosts flavor even in sweet recipes
• Water: brings the dough together and creates steam to help it cook
• If using dairy free milk for icing: pick something mild so it does not overpower the glaze

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Icing

In a very small bowl blend the powdered sugar and a drop of water or milk at a time Mix until you have a silky thick icing You want it pourable but not too thin Set it aside for later

Prepare the Mug

Rub the inside of a medium drinking mug with a little oil to prevent sticking Use a paper towel or your fingertips to cover the bottom and sides

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a small mixing bowl combine your flour baking powder and salt Stir well so everything is evenly distributed

Make Dough

Slowly add water to the dry mix until a dough forms You want it to be slightly tacky but not wet Use your hands to gently knead into a ball just until smooth

Roll Out the Dough

Lightly flour your countertop or a board Roll the dough out into a long strip about four inches wide and an eighth inch thick This shape makes rolling easy

Fill and Fold

Sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon all over the dough Gently fold each long edge in toward the center so they overlap and seal in the sugar layer

Roll into a Spiral

Roll up the dough tightly so you have a mini cinnamon bun shape Carefully lift with your hands and set it in the mug

Add Steam

Drizzle half a teaspoon of water on top This creates steam in the microwave which keeps the roll tender

Microwave and Check

Cook on full power about fifty seconds to one minute Check the roll with a toothpick It should look puffy and pale but cooked through

Ice and Serve

Pour or spoon the icing over the warm roll in the mug or pop it out onto a plate and drizzle the glaze Run a knife around the inside of the mug first if removing

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I absolutely love brown sugar for the filling It melts into little caramel rivers that make every bite extra special I once made this with my niece and she was amazed at how it puffed up in less than a minute

Storage Tips

Cinnamon roll in a mug is best eaten right away while warm and gooey If you want to prep ahead you can pre measure the dry ingredients in a baggie Just mix dough and cook fresh for best texture Leftovers get tough fast so this is a single serve treat

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to swap brown sugar for coconut sugar or use whole wheat flour for a heartier version For gluten free I have found a quality all purpose gluten free blend gives the closest result Dairy free milk or water both work for the icing Coconut oil adds a gentle hint of flavor if you enjoy it

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Serving Suggestions

This is delicious all on its own but you can top with chopped nuts for crunch or a little extra cinnamon over the icing For a fancy breakfast add a scoop of vegan yogurt or a handful of berries on the side I even like it with a mug of hot coffee for a cozy treat

Cultural Context

Cinnamon rolls are a beloved comfort food in Scandinavian and North American baking With this speedy mug version you get the same warm flavors with much less waiting Growing up we only made classic rolls on holidays but now any day can become special with this shortcut

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free flour, but texture may vary compared to all-purpose flour.

→ How do I know when it's cooked?

The roll should puff up and nearly reach the mug’s top. A clean toothpick inserted in the center is a good sign it's done.

→ Can dairy-free milk be used for icing?

Absolutely! Both water and plant-based milk work well for creating the icing’s smooth, drippy consistency.

→ Why does my roll look pale?

Microwaved dough won’t brown like oven-baked rolls. Some moisture and a pale appearance are normal—and preserve softness.

→ Is oil necessary to grease the mug?

A small dab of oil keeps the dough from sticking and makes it easier to remove or serve right in the mug.

→ Can I bake instead of microwave?

This method is designed for microwaving, but you could try baking at 350°F for a slightly longer time if preferred.