Pancake in a Mug Recipe
The Pancake in a Mug is your golden ticket to a fluffy, delicious breakfast in just a few effortless minutes—no griddle required! Imagine the classic comfort of a homemade pancake, but prepared and enjoyed right in your favorite mug, thanks to the magic of the microwave. This recipe brings together all the beloved pancake flavors with barely any cleanup, making it perfect for lazy mornings, hectic weekdays, or when that craving for something cozy strikes. If you’ve ever wished you could have a stack of pancakes without the fuss, this Pancake in a Mug is about to become your new go-to treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how just a handful of pantry staples come together to create a perfectly tender Pancake in a Mug. Each ingredient plays a small but mighty role—these simple essentials guarantee fluffiness, flavor, and just the right touch of sweetness.
- All-purpose flour: Provides the structure and classic pancake texture you crave.
- Baking powder: Fluffs up your mug pancake, ensuring it rises to lofty, cake-like heights.
- Granulated sugar: Delivers a gentle sweetness that balances the other flavors beautifully.
- Salt: Just a pinch sharpens all the flavors and keeps your pancake from tasting flat.
- Milk: The secret to a moist, tender crumb—choose any milk you like!
- Melted butter: Adds rich flavor and keeps the pancake delightfully soft, plus it’s perfect for greasing the mug to prevent sticking.
- Vanilla extract: One tiny splash brings a warm, inviting aroma to every bite.
- Optional toppings: Maple syrup, chocolate chips, or fresh fruit are wonderful ways to personalize your Pancake in a Mug.
How to Make Pancake in a Mug
Step 1: Prep Your Mug
Start by lightly greasing a microwave-safe mug with a bit of melted butter. This small step ensures your Pancake in a Mug lifts out easily (or, better yet, comes clean after you enjoy the last bite). Choose a mug that holds at least 12 ounces to give your pancake plenty of room to rise.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, sugar, and a pinch of salt right into the mug. Whisk or stir them together to evenly distribute the baking powder—this way, you’ll get a pancake that’s evenly fluffy throughout.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Pour in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Use a fork or small whisk to blend everything until just combined. The key to tender Pancake in a Mug is not to overmix—stop as soon as you don’t see any more dry streaks. If you’d like, fold in some chocolate chips, blueberries, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flair.
Step 4: Microwave the Pancake
Place the mug in your microwave and cook on high for 1 to 1 1/2 minutes. Keep a watchful eye—your pancake should rise and look set in the center. Every microwave is a little different, so adjust the time as needed. A quick rest after microwaving lets the pancake finish setting for the perfect texture.
Step 5: Finish and Enjoy
Let your Pancake in a Mug cool for just a minute, then go wild with toppings! Drizzle with maple syrup, dust on some powdered sugar, or pile on fruit or chocolate—whatever makes you happiest. Dig in with a spoon right from the mug for instant comfort.
How to Serve Pancake in a Mug

Garnishes
The best Pancake in a Mug gets even better with the right finishing touches. Try a pat of butter melting over the warm surface, a trickle of golden maple syrup, a shower of chocolate chips, or a scattering of fresh berries—each adds irresistible flavor, color, and a dash of breakfast magic.
Side Dishes
Pair your Pancake in a Mug with crispy bacon, a handful of roasted nuts, or a simple fruit salad on the side. For a lighter breakfast, a dollop of Greek yogurt or a freshly brewed cup of coffee turns this single-serve treat into a satisfying morning meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not host a “pancake in a mug” bar? Set out bowls of favorite toppings and let everyone customize their own. Try serving the mug on a little saucer with a trio of syrups or stack slices of banana on top and dust with cocoa for a café-style touch. The presentation is as fun as the eating!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftover Pancake in a Mug (it’s rare, but possible!), simply let it cool completely, then cover the mug or transfer the pancake to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to two days—just know the fresh-from-the-microwave texture is best enjoyed right away.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t typically necessary for such a quick single-serve treat, but if you want to make Pancake in a Mug ahead, freeze the cooked pancake (out of the mug) wrapped well in plastic wrap, then tuck into a freezer bag. Thaw in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, simply place the pancake back in the mug and microwave for 15-25 seconds, just until warmed through. Add a fresh splash of syrup or a pat of butter to bring back that just-baked flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Simply swap out the milk for a non-dairy option like almond or soy milk, and replace the melted butter with coconut oil or a plant-based spread. Your Pancake in a Mug will still turn out delightfully fluffy.
Which mug size works best?
Choose a mug that’s at least 12 ounces in size. This allows the Pancake in a Mug to rise without spilling over and ensures even cooking in the microwave.
Can I double the recipe for a larger portion?
The recipe is designed for a single serving, but you can absolutely double the ingredients and use an extra-large mug or microwave-safe bowl. Just keep in mind you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
What mix-ins work best for added flavor?
Mini chocolate chips, fresh blueberries, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even chopped nuts blend beautifully into the batter. Just fold them in gently after mixing the basic ingredients to avoid overworking your Pancake in a Mug.
Why did my pancake turn out rubbery?
If your Pancake in a Mug has a rubbery texture, it’s likely from overmixing the batter or overcooking in the microwave. Mix the ingredients until just combined, and microwave only until the center is just set for a soft, cake-like bite every time.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something irresistible about a cozy, single-serve Pancake in a Mug straight from the microwave—especially when it comes together so quickly. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try the next time you’re craving a homemade pancake with zero hassle. You might be surprised how often you reach for your mug in the mornings!
Print
Pancake in a Mug Recipe
- Total Time: 6 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and easy breakfast recipe for a fluffy pancake made in a mug using simple pantry ingredients. Perfect for a fast morning meal or a cozy treat.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- pinch of salt
Liquid Ingredients:
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (plus more for greasing)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Toppings:
- maple syrup
- chocolate chips
- fresh fruit
Instructions
- Grease the Mug: Lightly grease a microwave-safe mug with butter.
- Prepare Batter: In the mug, whisk together flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Add milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until just combined.
- Microwave: Cook on high for 1 to 1 1/2 minutes until the pancake is set in the center.
- Cool and Serve: Let it cool for 1 minute, then top with syrup, fruit, or toppings of choice.
Notes
- For a fluffier texture, let the batter rest before cooking.
- Try adding chocolate chips, blueberries, or cinnamon for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 minute
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Microwave
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mug pancake
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg