Total Time: 7 minutes
Active Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 2 minutes
Difficulty: Easy (Beginner-Friendly)
Servings: 1
Description:
Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall without breaking your ketogenic lifestyle! This single-serve mug cake is ready in under 7 minutes and combines the warm, spiced sweetness of pumpkin with rich, creamy pockets of cheesecake. It’s moist, fluffy, and incredibly satisfying—a perfect low-carb treat for when a pumpkin spice craving strikes. With only 4g net carbs, it’s a guilt-free pleasure that feels decadently autumnal.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
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2 tablespoons almond flour (16g)
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1 tablespoon granulated erythritol (or preferred keto-friendly sweetener, to taste)
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1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
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½ teaspoon baking powder
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1 large egg
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1 tablespoon pure pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
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1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted (or coconut oil)
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½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Swirl:
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1 tablespoon full-fat cream cheese, softened
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½ teaspoon granulated erythritol
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A few drops vanilla extract
Optional Toppings:
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A dollop of whipped cream (sugar-free)
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A sprinkle of cinnamon or chopped pecans
Equipment
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1 standard 12-oz microwave-safe mug or ramekin
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1 small mixing bowl
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Measuring spoons
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Fork or small whisk
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Swirl (1 minute)
In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ½ teaspoon of erythritol, and a few drops of vanilla extract. Mix with a fork until smooth and set aside.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients (1 minute)
In your chosen microwave-safe mug, whisk together the almond flour, 1 tablespoon of erythritol, pumpkin pie spice, and baking powder with a fork until well combined and any lumps are broken up.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients (2 minutes)
To the mug with the dry ingredients, add the egg, pumpkin puree, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix vigorously with your fork until you have a completely smooth, uniform batter with no dry spots.
Step 4: Add the Swirl (1 minute)
Drop spoonfuls of the prepared cream cheese mixture onto the top of the cake batter. Use a toothpick or the tip of a knife to gently swirl the cream cheese into the batter. Do not fully mix it in; you want beautiful marbled pockets.
Step 5: Microwave (2 minutes)
Place the mug in the center of the microwave. Cook on high power for 60-90 seconds. Start checking at 60 seconds. The cake is done when the top looks set, is slightly moist to the touch, and has pulled away slightly from the edges. It will continue to cook slightly from residual heat. Do not overcook, or it may become rubbery.
Step 6: Cool and Serve (1 minute)
Carefully remove the mug (it will be hot!). Let it cool for about 1 minute. The cake will be very tender when hot but will set perfectly as it cools slightly. Add optional toppings like a dollop of sugar-free whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon. Enjoy directly from the mug with a spoon!
Chef’s Notes & Tips
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Mug Size: Ensure your mug holds at least 12 oz to prevent overflow.
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Sweetener: Adjust sweetness to your preference. Powdered monk fruit or allulose blends work great here.
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Pumpkin Puree: Using too much can make the cake dense. Stick to 1 tablespoon for the perfect texture.
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No Microwave? You can bake this in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) in an oven-safe ramekin for 12-15 minutes.
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Storage: This cake is best enjoyed fresh. It cannot be stored well once cooked due to its delicate texture.
Nutrition Information
Per Serving (Entire Mug Cake, without optional toppings).
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 295 kcal |
| Total Fat | 26g |
| Saturated Fat | 11g |
| Total Carbohydrates | 7g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 2g (natural from pumpkin) |
| Erythritol | 12g* |
| Net Carbs | 4g |
| Protein | 11g |
| Cholesterol | 220mg |
| Sodium | 320mg |