Mug Carrot Cake

A warm, spiced, gluten-free Mug Carrot Cake made in just 2 minutes. Naturally sweetened with monk fruit or dates, dairy-free, and perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a comforting treat without refined sugar or blood-sugar-spiking ingredients.

DESSERTBREAKFASTGLUTEN FREELACTOSE FREEEASY TO MAKE

Lourdes Rodriguez

12/11/20252 min read

The Story This Dish Tells

This mug cake celebrates the cozy spirit of a Morning Glory muffin with warm spices, sweet carrots, crunchy nuts, and a hint of citrus, reimagined into a nourishing single-serve treat you can make in minutes. It is the kind of recipe that turns an ordinary morning into something soft, fragrant, and grounding, especially for those seeking a sweet moment that still feels kind to the body.

Health Benefits

  • Lower glycemic impact: Sweetened with monk fruit or dates, this mug cake is a great option for those looking to avoid refined sugars and minimize blood sugar spikes.

  • Gluten-free & dairy-free: Gentle on digestion.

  • Rich in fiber: Carrots, apple, dates, and nuts all help support gut health and fullness.

  • Healthy fats: Almond flour and walnuts provide nourishing fats and sustained energy.

  • Spices with benefits: Cinnamon and ginger add warmth and naturally support metabolic balance.

Preparation Tips

  • Grate the carrot very finely so it blends well and keeps the mug cake moist.

  • For extra fluffiness, use a 50/50 mix of oat flour and almond flour.

  • If you prefer more sweetness, add one extra date finely chopped.

  • Let it rest for 1 minute after microwaving so it can finish setting.

Best Season to Enjoy It

  • Although wonderful all year, this mug cake shines in fall and winter when warm spices and comforting textures feel especially inviting.

Food Safety Notes

  • Ensure the egg cooks fully; if the top looks too wet, add 10-15 more seconds.

  • Consume immediately or within a few hours; mug cakes can dry out if stored.

Mug Carrot Cake Recipe

Ingredients (1 serving)

  • 2 Tbsp gluten-free oat flour

  • 1 Tbsp almond flour

  • 1 egg

  • 1 Tbsp melted coconut oil

  • 1 Tbsp monk fruit or 1 finely chopped Medjool date

  • 2 Tbsp finely grated carrot

  • 1 Tbsp grated apple or 1 Tbsp. orange juice + zest

  • 1 Tbsp walnuts or pecans, chopped

  • 1 tsp shredded coconut (optional)

  • ½ tsp baking powder

  • ½ tsp cinnamon

  • Pinch ginger

  • Pinch nutmeg

  • 1 tsp golden raisins (optional)

  • Splash vanilla

  • Pinch salt

Instructions

  1. Whisk the egg, oil, vanilla and sweetener.

  2. Add flours, baking powder, spices, and salt. Mix well.

  3. Fold in carrot, apple, nuts, coconut, and raisins.

  4. Microwave 1:30-2:00 minutes, depending on your microwave.

  5. Rest for 1 minute before enjoying.

Storage and Shelf Life

  • Best enjoyed immediately. If needed, refrigerate for up to 12 hours and reheat briefly.

Healthier Ingredient Swaps

  • Swap egg → flax egg (1 tbsp. ground flax + 2½ tbsp. water)

  • Swap oat flour → buckwheat flour for a deeper, rustic flavor

  • Swap nuts → pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version

Pairing Ideas

  • Hot cinnamon tea

  • Golden milk

  • Iced americano with a splash of oat milk

  • Fresh fruit bowl with oranges or berries

👉Did You Know?... Monk fruit sweetener comes from a small green melon native to Southeast Asia, historically used in traditional herbal preparations for its natural sweetness and anti-inflammatory properties.

Dietary Restrictions to Consider

  • Contains egg and nuts unless substitutions are made.

  • Naturally gluten-free if using certified gluten free (GF) oats.

  • Sweetened with monk fruit or dates - both are great alternatives for those avoiding refined sugar or looking to better manage blood sugar levels.

  • Important: If you have any doubts about incorporating this food into your diet, it is always a good idea to consult with your dietician or doctor.