5-Minute Cottage Cheese Cinnamon Roll Mug Cake

Author: Emily

Published: 19 June 2025

Updated: 6 January 2026

why make this recipe

I love quick treats that still feel cozy. This mug cake tastes like a cinnamon roll. It comes together in minutes. You only need a mug and a microwave. If you crave cinnamon roll flavors but want something tiny and fast, this fits the bill. For a heartier morning, I sometimes make cinnamon roll pancakes and save this mug cake for a sweet afternoon pick-me-up.

how to make 5-Minute Cottage Cheese Cinnamon Roll Mug Cake

Ingredients:

1/2 cup cottage cheese

1/4 cup flour

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1 tablespoon sugar

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 egg

1 tablespoon butter (melted)

optional: icing or cream cheese for topping

5-Minute Cottage Cheese Cinnamon Roll Mug Cake

Directions:

In a microwave-safe mug, combine cottage cheese, flour, baking powder, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and egg. Mix well until smooth.
Stir in the melted butter until incorporated.
Microwave on high for about 1–2 minutes, or until the cake sets and cooks through. Start at 60 seconds and add more time if needed.
Allow to cool for a minute, then top with icing or cream cheese if desired. Enjoy warm!

If you like experimenting with similar quick bakes, you can borrow techniques from my sourdough discard cinnamon roll cake for swirl ideas.

how to serve 5-Minute Cottage Cheese Cinnamon Roll Mug Cake

Serve it right in the mug. The cake stays warm longer that way. Add a spoonful of cream cheese frosting. A sprinkle of extra cinnamon makes it feel special. I also enjoy it with a cookie and a cup of tea. Try it alongside caramel cheesecake cookies for a fun spread.

how to store 5-Minute Cottage Cheese Cinnamon Roll Mug Cake

Cool completely before storing. Put leftovers in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave for 15–20 seconds. If you froze a slice, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm briefly.

tips to make 5-Minute Cottage Cheese Cinnamon Roll Mug Cake

Use full-fat cottage cheese for the creamiest bite. Pulse the cottage cheese briefly with the egg if you want a smoother batter. Don’t overfill the mug. The cake will rise a bit. Watch closely the first time you microwave it. If you like bite-sized treats, try my mini cinnamon roll bites for a sharing option.

variation (if any)

Swap the cinnamon for pumpkin spice in fall. Add a tablespoon of pumpkin puree and reduce the cottage cheese a bit for texture. You can stir in a few chocolate chips too. For a seasonal twist, I often think about my pumpkin sourdough cinnamon rolls when I make this version.

FAQs

Q: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese?

A: Yes. Plain Greek yogurt works well. It makes a slightly tangier cake.

Q: How do I know when it’s done?

A: The top will look set and spring back lightly to the touch. Start with 60 seconds and add 15-second bursts if needed.

Q: Can I make this without an egg?

A: You can try a flax egg, but texture will change. The real egg gives the best rise and structure.

5-Minute Cottage Cheese Cinnamon Roll Mug Cake

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