Made with flour, milk, sugar, butter, and vanilla, this 2-minute pancake in a mug is the fastest way to breakfast happiness.
Okay, listen. This is not a culinary masterpiece that’ll land you a spot on a cooking show. This is the “I’m tired, it’s Tuesday, and I want pancakes without having to flip anything” kinda recipe. And I love it for that.
The first time I made this pancake-in-a-mug thing, I was standing in my kitchen, still wearing pajama pants, definitely not emotionally prepared for the day, and I had one goal: carbs. Fluffy ones. Without the mess.
One microwave minute later—BOOM. I had it. A soft, sweet, cozy little pancake, warm from the mug and just waiting to be slathered in syrup. That first bite? It reminded me of lazy weekend brunches and hotel room breakfasts with my sister when we’d sneak back from the breakfast buffet with one extra pancake for the road (aka the elevator). That’s what this recipe feels like.
Why You’ll Love This 2-Minute Pancake in a Mug Recipe?
Let’s be real—some mug recipes are all hype and no bite. This one’s different. It works. And it’s good. Like you’ll be sad when it’s gone kind of good.
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It’s done in literally 2 minutes (maybe 3 if you’re slow at stirring).
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You don’t need a bowl. Just the mug and a spoon.
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No eggs, no waiting, no pan, no sticking. No babysitting a skillet.
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It’s perfect for those solo breakfasts, midnight snacks, or “I just want something sweet but not too sweet” moments.
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You can add stuff. Like mini chocolate chips or blueberries or that cinnamon sugar mix from the back of your spice rack.
Honestly, it’s like pancake meets mug cake... but better. Because it knows it’s a pancake.
Ingredient Notes:
Let’s walk through what goes into your glorious mug creation. Nothing fancy. No weird ingredients. And yes, you probably already have this stuff.
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Butter: Just a tablespoon, melted. Adds richness. If you’re dairy-free, go for coconut oil or vegan butter.
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Sugar: Only one tablespoon. Enough to taste sweet without being cake-level.
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Milk: Any kind—cow, almond, oat, it all works.
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Vanilla: Optional, but totally adds to that “oh wow this smells amazing” factor.
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Flour: All-purpose, the good ol’ pantry kind.
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Baking powder: For puff. Because we don’t want a sad, flat pancake.
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Salt: A tiny pinch to make the sweet pop.
You can also throw in a handful of chocolate chips, berries, cinnamon, or swirl in peanut butter. This pancake wants to be your canvas.
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How To Make 2-Minute Pancake in a Mug?
Step 1: Melt the Butter
Pop a tablespoon of butter into your microwave-safe mug (make sure it holds at least 8 oz—trust me on this). Microwave it for 10–15 seconds until melted.
Step 2: Add the Wet Stuff
Stir in your sugar, milk, and vanilla. Just use a spoon and mix it all up right there in the mug.
Step 3: Stir in the Dry Stuff
Add your flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix it together until combined. A few lumps? Totally fine. This isn’t a five-star French soufflé.
Step 4: Microwave That Baby
Pop your mug in the microwave and cook on high for about 60 seconds. Depending on your microwave’s mood, it might need another 10–15 seconds. It should puff up, look matte on top, and feel firm to the touch. If it’s still gooey, nuke it a bit longer in short bursts.
Step 5: Cool Slightly, Then Top Like a Boss
Let it cool for a minute (or you’ll burn your mouth—learned that one the hard way). Then go wild with toppings. Syrup. Berries. Nutella. Whipped cream. Whatever makes your soul sing.
Storage Options:
This isn’t the kind of recipe you make ahead of time. It’s “make it, eat it, done.” That said, if you somehow don’t finish it, cover the mug and stash it in the fridge. Microwave for 15–20 seconds when you’re ready to revive it.
Variations and Substitutions:
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Gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
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Dairy-free: Almond milk and coconut oil or vegan butter work great.
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Low sugar: Try it with a teaspoon of maple syrup instead of sugar.
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Add-ins: Chocolate chips, a spoonful of jam, cinnamon, a dollop of peanut butter, or even some crushed walnuts. Go wild.
What to Serve with 2-Minute Pancake in a Mug?
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Coffee, obviously.
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A big glass of cold milk or oat milk.
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Fresh fruit, if you’re feeling like a balanced breakfast.
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Another pancake in a second mug. Who’s judging?
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s meant to be eaten fresh, but the dry ingredients can be pre-mixed and stored in a little jar or zip bag.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but not in the same mug. It will overflow like a volcano. Make two separate mugs instead.
Can I make it healthier?
Sure! Sub half whole wheat flour, use less sugar, or stir in mashed banana or Greek yogurt.
That’s it! Your new lazy breakfast (or snack… or dessert) obsession. This 2-Minute Pancake in a Mug is now my emergency go-to for when I’m tired, hungry, and just want something warm and happy.
Have you tried it yet? What did you mix in? Chocolate chips? Berries? Both?! Let’s chat in the comments—I’d love to know your favorite version.
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Keep the Flavor Coming – Try These:
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons milk any variety
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 pinch salt
Instructions
Melt the Butter
- Place the butter in a microwave-safe mug (preferably 8 to 12 ounces in capacity). Heat in the microwave in 10–15 second intervals until fully melted.
Incorporate the Wet Ingredients
- Add the granulated sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to the melted butter. Stir until the mixture is well blended.
Combine the Dry Ingredients
- Add the flour, baking powder, and salt directly into the mug. Stir gently until the batter is smooth and no large lumps remain. A few small lumps are acceptable.
Microwave Cooking
- Microwave the mug on high for approximately 60 seconds. The pancake should rise and appear set on top. If additional cooking time is necessary, heat in 10-second intervals until the center is cooked through.
Cooling and Serving
- Allow the mug to cool for a couple of minutes. Serve the pancake warm with desired toppings such as syrup, fresh fruit, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!