Name: Carrot Cake Mug Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 2 min
Total time: 7 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 large egg; 1/4 cup full-fat cottage cheese, drained; 3 tbsp finely grated carrot, lightly patted dry; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1 tbsp brown sugar or maple syrup; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground ginger; Pinch of nutmeg; 1/4 tsp baking powder; Optional: 1 tbsp chopped walnuts or raisins; 1 tbsp cream cheese, softened; 1 tsp powdered sugar or maple syrup; A few drops of milk, if needed

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This carrot cake mug cake is a cozy, single-serving treat that’s ready in minutes. It has all the warm spices and soft texture of a classic carrot cake, paired with a smooth cream cheese frosting. I love how easy it is to throw together with pantry staples and a microwave.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it delivers the comforting flavor of traditional carrot cake without the time commitment. It’s ideal when I want something sweet but don’t want leftovers tempting me later. The cottage cheese gives it a moist, protein-rich base, and the frosting makes it feel like a complete dessert. Plus, there’s barely any cleanup involved.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Mug Cake:

1 large egg
1/4 cup full-fat cottage cheese, drained
3 tbsp finely grated carrot, lightly patted dry
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tbsp brown sugar or maple syrup
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground ginger
Pinch of nutmeg
1/4 tsp baking powder
Optional: 1 tbsp chopped walnuts or raisins

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

1 tbsp cream cheese, softened
1 tsp powdered sugar or maple syrup
A few drops of milk, if needed to thin

Directions

I always start with the frosting so it’s ready when the cake comes out. I stir the softened cream cheese and sweetener in a small bowl until smooth. If it seems too thick, I add a drop or two of milk.
In a medium bowl, I whisk the egg and drained cottage cheese until it’s as smooth as possible.
I mix in the grated carrot, flour, sweetener, spices, and baking powder. If I’m feeling like a little extra texture, I toss in some chopped walnuts or raisins.
I lightly grease a 300-350 ml microwave-safe mug and pour in the batter.
I microwave the cake on high for about 1 minute 45 seconds to 2 minutes—just until the top is puffed and a toothpick comes out clean.
I let the cake cool in the mug for 2–3 minutes.
Then I spread the frosting on top while it’s still warm and dig in.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 1 serving.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 2 minutes
Total time: 7 minutes

Variations

I sometimes swap the carrots with finely grated zucchini or apple for a different twist. If I want a sweeter version, I use maple syrup instead of brown sugar. For a more decadent frosting, I blend in a touch of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon. And when I want a little crunch, I add toasted pecans or shredded coconut.

Storage/Reheating

This mug cake is best enjoyed fresh, but if I need to store it, I cover it and keep it in the fridge for up to a day. To reheat, I microwave it for about 10–15 seconds. I recommend storing the frosting separately if I know I’m not eating it right away.

FAQs

What can I use instead of cottage cheese?

I like using Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese as a substitute—they both provide a creamy texture and keep the cake moist.

Can I make this mug cake vegan?

Yes, I swap the egg for a flax egg and use a dairy-free yogurt instead of cottage cheese. I also use a plant-based cream cheese for the frosting.

Can I bake this in the oven instead of the microwave?

I can! I pour the batter into an oven-safe ramekin and bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–18 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, I double the ingredients and split the batter between two mugs. I microwave them one at a time or bake them together in the oven.

What size mug should I use?

I use a 300–350 ml (10–12 oz) microwave-safe mug to allow room for the cake to rise without overflowing.

Conclusion

This carrot cake mug cake is a warm, spiced indulgence that’s quick to whip up and perfect for one. I love the balance of cozy flavors and creamy frosting—all in under 10 minutes. It’s one of those little desserts that always hits the spot without much effort.