Easy Banana Bread Mug Cake Recipe (Gluten Free)

Banana bread mug cake is perfect for a quick and satisfying dessert or snack.

Ready in just a few minutes, it delivers the warm, comforting flavors of banana bread without the hassle of baking a full loaf.

Great for breakfast, an afternoon treat, or a late-night craving. Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon, a drizzle of honey, or a handful of chocolate chips for extra indulgence.

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 320 kcal
Carbohydrates 38g
Protein 9g
Fat 15g
Saturated Fat 5g
Polyunsaturated Fat 2g
Monounsaturated Fat 4g
Trans Fat 0g
Cholesterol 185mg
Sodium 180mg
Potassium 420mg
Fiber 5g
Sugar 18g
Vitamin A 220 IU
Vitamin C 5mg
Calcium 80mg
Iron 1.2mg

 

Recipe Information

  • Preparation Time: 5 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 2 minutes
  • Course: Dessert, Snack
  • Cuisine: American
  • Servings: 1
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Price: $2

Equipment Needed

  • Microwave-safe mug (12 oz or larger)
  • Fork or small whisk
  • Measuring spoons
  • Microwave

Ingredients

  • 1 small ripe banana, mashed (about 1/3 cup)
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tablespoons almond flour
  • 1 tablespoon coconut flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon chocolate chips or chopped nuts

Instructions

Mash banana in the mug until smooth.

Add egg and whisk until fully combined.

Mix in almond flour, coconut flour, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Stir in maple syrup (or honey) and optional chocolate chips or nuts.

Microwave on high for 90 seconds to 2 minutes until the cake is set but still slightly soft in the center.

Let cool for 1–2 minutes before eating.

Top with extra banana slices, nuts, or a drizzle of honey if desired.

Cooking Tips

  • Use a very ripe banana for a sweeter cake and stronger flavor.
  • If the cake is too dry, add a teaspoon of almond milk to the batter.
  • Over-microwaving can make the cake rubbery, so start with 90 seconds and adjust as needed.
  • Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top to enhance sweetness.

What about Altenative Ingredients for this Recipe?

Switching up ingredients in a banana bread mug cake recipe allows for flexibility based on dietary needs or taste preferences. For a grain-free version, almond flour and coconut flour work well together, but oat flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour can also be used.

For those avoiding eggs, a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) makes a great binding substitute. Different sweeteners can easily change the flavor profile. Maple syrup and honey provide natural sweetness, but agave syrup, coconut sugar, or mashed dates are excellent substitutes.

For a lower sugar option, try liquid stevia or monk fruit sweetener. Adding texture boosts the overall experience, mix in chopped walnuts, pecans, or sunflower seeds for a satisfying crunch. Chocolate chips or dried cranberries bring a sweet touch, while shredded coconut adds a tropical hint.

Milk alternatives can also be adjusted. Almond milk or oat milk works well in place of regular milk, adding a slight nutty or creamy taste. Adding a teaspoon of nut butter like almond or peanut butter creates a richer texture and more complex flavor.

A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg enhances the warmth of the banana flavor, while a dash of sea salt helps balance the sweetness.

Summary

Customizing a banana bread mug cake with alternative ingredients makes it easy to adjust for dietary needs and personal tastes.

Simple swaps like using different flours, sweeteners, or add-ins create new flavor profiles and textures without complicating the recipe.

Experimenting with these changes ensures the mug cake remains quick, satisfying, and delicious every time.