Can you make tres leches cake in a mug?

Absolutely! Making tres leches cake in a mug is not only possible but incredibly convenient for single-serving desserts. The microwave method actually works beautifully for this classic Latin dessert because the warm cake readily absorbs the three-milk mixture, creating that signature soaked texture in just minutes. The key involves creating a sturdy cake base that won't fall apart when saturated with the milk mixture, then timing the milk addition while the cake remains warm for optimal absorption. This approach delivers authentic tres leches flavor and texture without requiring a full-sized cake that might go to waste.

How do you make cinnamon sugar mug cake from scratch?

Creating cinnamon sugar mug cake from scratch starts with combining dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt) directly in your microwave-safe mug. Add wet ingredients (milk, melted butter or oil, and vanilla) and stir until just combined - overmixing creates tough texture. Microwave for 60-90 seconds depending on your appliance's wattage, checking at 45-second intervals to prevent overcooking. The finished cake should spring back lightly when touched and pull slightly from the mug's sides. Top with additional cinnamon sugar while warm for the best flavor integration.

What is a tres leches mug cake?

A tres leches mug cake is a single-serving adaptation of the traditional Latin American dessert that features sponge cake soaked in a mixture of three different milk types: evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream. This microwave version maintains the essential soaking characteristic while scaling down to individual portions, making it perfect for quick dessert cravings. The cake absorbs the milk mixture while remaining structurally sound, creating that distinctive moist, creamy texture that makes tres leches so beloved worldwide.

Can I microwave tres leches cake?

Yes, microwaving tres leches cake works exceptionally well, especially for single-serving portions. The microwave environment actually enhances the milk absorption process because the warm cake readily accepts the liquid mixture. When reheating pre-made tres leches cake, use 15-20 second intervals at medium power to warm gently without overcooking. For mug cake versions, the microwave cooking method produces excellent results when using proper timing and power settings, often creating more evenly soaked cake than traditional oven methods.

Cinnamon Sugar Tres Leches Mug Cake: Perfect 5-Minute Recipe

Name: Cinnamon Sugar Tres Leches Mug Cake: 5-Minute Microwave Magic
Prep time: PT-487268H21M12S
Cook time: PT-487268H21M12S
Total time: PT-487268H21M12S
Cuisine: Latin American
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1/4 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; Pinch of salt; 3 tablespoons whole milk; 1 tablespoon melted butter; 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons evaporated milk; 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk; 2 tablespoons heavy cream; Extra cinnamon sugar for topping

Description

Indulgent cinnamon sugar tres leches mug cake that combines the beloved Latin dessert with warming cinnamon spice in a convenient single-serving microwave treat. This recipe delivers authentic three-milk soaked texture with perfect cinnamon sugar balance in just 5 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons granulated sugar

1/4 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Pinch of salt

3 tablespoons whole milk

1 tablespoon melted butter

1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 tablespoons evaporated milk

2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk

2 tablespoons heavy cream

Extra cinnamon sugar for topping

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. In a microwave-safe mug, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.

2. Add milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients, stirring until smooth batter forms.

3. Microwave on medium power (70%) for 60-75 seconds, checking at 45-second mark to prevent overcooking.

4. While cake cooks, combine evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream in small bowl.

5. Remove hot cake from microwave and immediately poke holes all over surface with toothpick.

6. Slowly pour tres leches mixture over warm cake, allowing it to absorb completely.

7. Sprinkle additional cinnamon sugar on top and let rest 2-3 minutes before serving.

8. Serve warm or chill for 30 minutes for firmer texture, topped with whipped cream if desired.

Notes

Use medium microwave power to prevent rubbery texture. Cake should spring back lightly when done but still feel slightly moist.

For keto version, substitute almond flour and erythritol sweetener, reducing liquid slightly.

Dairy-free adaptation works with coconut milk and plant-based butter alternatives.

Best absorbed when cake is still warm, so add milk mixture immediately after cooking.

Can be made ahead and chilled – flavors develop beautifully overnight.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 mug cake
Calories: 335
Sugar: 28g
Sodium: 180mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 8g
Cholesterol: 35mg