If you’re looking for a quick, cozy treat that captures the essence of fall, the Pumpkin Mug Cake with Chocolate Chips Recipe is your new best friend. This delightful single-serving cake comes together in just minutes, marrying moist pumpkin-infused batter with melting pockets of chocolate chips. It’s the ultimate comfort dessert that feels homemade but is so simple you can whip it up in a flash whenever a sweet craving strikes. Whether you’re a pumpkin fanatic or just want a fuss-free indulgence, this recipe hits all the right notes with its warm spices, tender crumb, and irresistible chocolate surprise.

Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Pumpkin Mug Cake with Chocolate Chips Recipe lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component plays an essential role, from the pumpkin puree that adds moisture and earthiness, to the pumpkin spice that brings those beloved autumnal aromas straight into your microwave mug.
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Provides the structure needed for a light yet tender cake.
- 3 tablespoons sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps achieve a pleasant crust.
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder: Gives the cake a little lift, making it nice and fluffy.
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin spice: The signature blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves that defines pumpkin desserts.
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree: Adds moisture, natural sweetness, and that vibrant orange color.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and rich.
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract: Amplifies the flavor with a warm, aromatic note.
- 3 tablespoons mini chocolate chips (optional): Little pockets of melty chocolate that make every bite extra special.
How to Make Pumpkin Mug Cake with Chocolate Chips Recipe
Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
Start by mixing the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, kosher salt, and pumpkin spice directly in a microwave-safe mug. This step ensures all your dry ingredients are evenly blended, creating a base that’s perfectly seasoned with those cozy spices.
Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, stir in the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until you have a smooth and consistent batter. The pumpkin puree makes this cake wonderfully moist, while the vanilla adds depth to the flavor.
Step 3: Fold in Chocolate Chips
Now comes the fun part: gently folding in the mini chocolate chips. They add richness and a delightful surprise in every mouthful. Spread them evenly so every bite is just right.
Step 4: Microwave the Cake
Place your mug in the microwave and cook on high for about 1 minute and 30 seconds to 2 minutes. The cake will rise beautifully and should be set in the middle when done. Keep a close eye after 90 seconds, as microwave strength varies and you want a moist, not dry, cake.
Step 5: Cool Slightly Before Enjoying
Let the mug cake cool for a few minutes before digging in because it can be very hot straight from the microwave. This also helps the flavors settle and the texture become just right.
Step 6: Serve and Savor
You can enjoy this pumpkin delight straight from the mug, or elevate it further with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce. However you serve it, this cake is pure bliss in every bite!
How to Serve Pumpkin Mug Cake with Chocolate Chips Recipe

Garnishes
Top your warm pumpkin mug cake with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or crushed pecans for added texture and festive flair. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a few extra chocolate chips on top can also take this treat to the next level.
Side Dishes
This mug cake pairs perfectly with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or even a spiced latte. If you want to turn it into a mini dessert spread, consider serving alongside vanilla ice cream or a small bowl of fresh berries for a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the cake in a decorated mason jar or a cute ceramic cup. You can also garnish with edible flowers or pumpkin seeds to impress guests at an autumn gathering. The charm of this recipe is how easily it becomes a personalized treat with just a few added touches.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (though it’s rare with this single-serving delight), cover the mug tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay moist and tasty for up to 2 days.
Freezing
Because this is a quick mug cake meant to be enjoyed fresh, freezing isn’t ideal, but you can freeze the batter in a small container ahead of time. When ready, thaw and microwave as usual for a fast, fresh treat.
Reheating
To warm up your chilled Pumpkin Mug Cake with Chocolate Chips Recipe, microwave it for about 20-30 seconds until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, or the cake might dry out.
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin puree for this recipe?
Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and provides that smooth, rich texture needed for the mug cake.
What if I don’t have pumpkin spice?
No worries. You can create your own blend using cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and a pinch of cloves or allspice to mimic pumpkin spice.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, swap the vegetable oil for coconut oil and make sure your chocolate chips are dairy-free for a delicious vegan-friendly mug cake.
Is it possible to make this without chocolate chips?
Definitely. The chocolate chips are optional but highly recommended. The mug cake will still be tasty without them if you prefer a purer pumpkin flavor.
Can I double the recipe to make two mug cakes at once?
You can! Just prepare two separate mugs with full ingredient amounts and microwave each one individually for the best results.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the ease and warmth of this Pumpkin Mug Cake with Chocolate Chips Recipe to brighten up an ordinary day or add a sweet finishing touch to a busy evening. It’s a quick, comforting dessert that wraps you in fall flavors without any fuss. I can’t wait for you to try this one—it’s sure to become a go-to treat whenever you crave a little pumpkin magic in a hurry.
Print
Pumpkin Mug Cake with Chocolate Chips Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes
- Total Time: 7 minutes
- Yield: 1 mug cake
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Microwave
- Cuisine: American
Description
Enjoy a quick and delicious Pumpkin Mug Cake that’s perfect for an individual treat. This moist and flavorful cake combines warm pumpkin spice with rich chocolate chips, all cooked conveniently in a microwave for a fast dessert fix.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin spice
Wet Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional
- 3 tablespoons mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a microwave-safe mug, mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, kosher salt, and pumpkin spice until well blended.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly until the batter is smooth and consistent.
- Incorporate Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips, if using, to ensure even distribution throughout the batter.
- Microwave the Cake: Cook the mug cake on high in the microwave for 1 minute and 30 seconds to 2 minutes. The cake should rise and become firm in the center. Start checking at 1 minute and 30 seconds to avoid overcooking.
- Cool Slightly: Allow the mug cake to cool for a few minutes inside the mug to prevent burning, as it will be very hot immediately after microwaving.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the pumpkin mug cake as is or enhance it with a scoop of ice cream and a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
Notes
- Microwave cooking times may vary depending on your appliance, so keep an eye on the cake starting at 1 minute 30 seconds.
- Use pumpkin spice blend or substitute with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger if unavailable.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Chocolate chips are optional but add a lovely melty texture and extra flavor.
- Make sure to use a microwave-safe mug to prevent cracking or damage.

