Want a dessert that’s rich, cozy, and gluten‑free without fuss? This Flourless Almond Butter Mug Cake is just that. Made with almond butter, a sweetener, and a little baking powder—or even optional extras—it comes together in minutes in your microwave. Soft center, nutty flavor, no flour needed. Perfect for when you want something wholesome and satisfying fast.
Table of Contents
Why I Love This Flourless Almond Butter Mug Cake
Gluten‑Free Without Compromise
Using almond butter instead of flour means you get protein, healthy fats, and a naturally gluten‑free base. It gives a moist, rich texture that fills you up without feeling heavy or grainy. For anyone avoiding gluten—or just wanting a dessert a little kinder to the belly—this cake hits a sweet spot.
Pantry Staples & Minimal Clean‑Up This dessert uses ingredients many of us already have: almond butter, sweetener, maybe an egg or egg substitute (if you want), and leavening. You don’t have to haul out bags of flour or sugar; no bowls of batter, no oven. Mug, microwave, and you’re done. Minimal dishes, minimal effort, maximum comfort.
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Flourless Almond Butter Mug Cake (Gluten‑Free!)
- Total Time: 4.5 mins
- Yield: 1 mug cake
Description
This Flourless Almond Butter Mug Cake is a naturally gluten-free dessert made with pantry staples. Rich, nutty, and perfectly soft—ready in just minutes.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons almond butter
1 tablespoon maple syrup or sweetener of choice
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 small egg (or 1 flax egg for vegan)
Optional: pinch of salt, 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract, cinnamon, chocolate chips
Instructions
1. Lightly grease a microwave-safe mug (about 8 oz capacity).
2. Add almond butter, sweetener, baking powder, and egg to mug.
3. Stir thoroughly until smooth and well mixed.
4. Add optional vanilla, salt, or cinnamon if using.
5. Microwave on high for 60–90 seconds, depending on your microwave wattage.
6. Let rest 1 minute before eating for best texture.
Notes
Use smooth almond butter for a creamy result; crunchy for added texture.
Do not overcook or cake may turn dry—slightly soft center is ideal.
Let the cake cool slightly before digging in; it continues to cook while cooling.
Great with a drizzle of almond butter, chopped nuts, or fruit.
- Prep Time: 3 mins
- Cook Time: 1.5 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Microwave
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mug cake
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 130mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: flourless almond butter mug cake, gluten-free mug cake, healthy mug cake
Ingredients & Tasty Variations
Essential Ingredients
- Almond butter (smooth or crunchy, unsweetened works best)
- Sweetener (maple syrup, honey, or sugar substitute if desired)
- Baking powder (just a pinch to help rise)
- Optional: an egg or flax‑egg (if not strictly vegan), vanilla extract, a pinch of salt
- Optional flavor enhancers: cinnamon, chocolate chips, chopped nuts
Variations & Substitutions
- Vegan version: Use maple syrup or agave, omit egg or use flax‑egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water).
- Sweetness adjust: Less sweet for less sugar, or add a little dark chocolate for richness.
- Texture tweak: Use crunchy almond butter, or mix in chopped nuts or shredded coconut.
- Flavor twists: Add cinnamon or nutmeg, a drop of almond or vanilla extract, or a small dollop of chocolate chips.
- Dairy‐free add‑on: If using a dairy‑based sweetener, check ingredients; many options are dairy‑free already.
How to Make Your Flourless Almond Butter Mug Cake & Top Results
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
- Choose a microwave‑safe mug (≈ 8‑10 oz) and lightly grease or spray it to help release.
- Add 2 tablespoons almond butter into the mug.
- Add sweetener (about 1 tablespoon), baking powder (about ½ teaspoon), optional vanilla extract and pinch of salt.
- If using egg or flax‐egg, mix that in now. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
- Optional: stir in chocolate chips or nuts.
- Microwave on high for about 60‑90 seconds (adjust based on your microwave’s wattage). Cake is done when edges are set and center still slightly soft.
- Let rest 1 minute—the cake will finish cooking and settle.
- Top as desired (nuts, a sprinkle of cinnamon, a drizzle of almond butter, or fresh fruit work great).
Tips for Best Texture & Flavor
- Don’t overcook—overheating makes almond butter cakes dry quickly. It’s better to stop when center still has a little wiggle.
- Use smooth almond butter for a more uniform texture; crunchy adds nice bite.
- Add a tiny pinch of salt to balance sweetness and enhance flavor.
- If your microwave is strong, reduce time slightly; if weak, add 10‑15 seconds.
- Resting time matters. Let it sit after microwaving to finish setting so the inside isn’t too gooey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this dessert gluten‑free?
Yes. Because it uses almond butter instead of flour, it’s naturally gluten‑free—unless your almond butter or sweetener has additives. Always check labels if very strict.
Can I make this vegan or keto?
Vegan: yes, use a flax‑egg or omit egg, and use plant‑based sweetener. Keto: reduce sweetener or use a keto‑friendly sweetener, and keep portion small since almond butter is caloric.
How do I store leftovers or make‑ahead?
Best eaten fresh. If you have leftovers, cover mug and refrigerate; reheat briefly in microwave. Some texture change happens but still good. You can also prepare dry mix ahead and add almond butter and liquid when ready.
Can I double and bake in ramekins instead of mug?
Yes. Double recipe into small ramekins and bake in a preheated oven (~350°F / 175°C) for ~12‑15 minutes; watch closely so edges don’t overbake. Cooling and serving similar.
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Conclusion
This Flourless Almond Butter Mug Cake delivers when you want dessert without flour, without fuss, and without waiting. It’s gluten‑free, rich, and adaptable — whether you want it plain, with chocolate chips, or topped with fruit. Try it next time your sweet craving hits and enjoy something wholesome and satisfying in under two minutes.