If you are craving a cozy and quick treat that perfectly captures the flavors of fall, then you will absolutely adore this Pumpkin Mug Cake with Chocolate Chips Recipe. It’s a delightful single-serving dessert that comes together in minutes, featuring tender pumpkin puree, warm pumpkin pie spices, and melty chocolate chips all baked to perfection in your microwave. This is comfort food magic when you want something sweet, moist, and satisfying without the fuss of baking a whole cake.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Two white ceramic mugs sit side by side on a white marbled surface. The left mug shows separate layers of ingredients: a raw egg with a smooth, shiny orange yolk and clear white, white liquid, and three dollops of thick orange pumpkin puree with a slightly chunky texture at the bottom. The right mug contains a smooth, thick orange batter with tiny darker flecks, evenly mixed by a small metal whisk resting inside. Both mugs have a simple black pattern near the top edge. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Before you start mixing, let’s talk about the magic behind these simple ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating the fluffy texture, rich flavor, and beautiful color of this pumpkin mug cake. Plus, the chocolate chips add just the right touch of indulgence without overpowering the warm pumpkin spices.

Pumpkin puree: The star of the show, providing moisture, sweetness, and that unmistakable fall flavor.
Egg: Helps bind everything together and gives the cake a nice rise and structure.
Whole milk: Adds richness and ensures the cake stays tender.
Coconut sugar: A natural sweetener that adds a subtle caramel taste and is a great alternative to white sugar.
Oil (melted coconut oil recommended): Keeps the cake moist and adds a slight tropical hint that complements pumpkin beautifully.
Gluten-free 1-to-1 baking flour (or all-purpose flour): The base that provides structure, and using gluten-free makes the cake friendly for many diets.
Pumpkin pie spice: A perfect blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove that brings warmth and depth.
Baking powder: Essential for lifting the cake to light, fluffy perfection.
Chocolate chips: Tiny pockets of melty, sweet goodness that make this pumpkin mug cake extra special.

How to Make Pumpkin Mug Cake with Chocolate Chips Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Wet Ingredients

Grab a microwave-safe mug and start by whisking together the pumpkin puree, egg, whole milk, coconut sugar, and melted oil. Make sure the mixture is smooth and evenly combined—this step is crucial as it gives the cake its moist and tender crumb.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, stir together the gluten-free baking flour, pumpkin pie spice, and baking powder. These dry ingredients are your flavor and leavening foundation, ensuring your cake rises nicely while packing in seasonal spice.

Step 3: Bring It All Together

Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients in your mug, stirring just until everything is incorporated. Fold in the chocolate chips gently; this will leave gooey pockets of chocolate throughout the cake, making every bite a little bit indulgent.

Step 4: Microwave to Perfection

Pop your mug into the microwave and cook on high for 60 to 90 seconds. Since microwaves vary, keep an eye on the cake as it cooks — it should look set but still moist on top. Avoid overcooking to keep that lovely softness.

Step 5: Add Optional Toppings

If you like, sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top right after microwaving so they slightly melt or add a scoop of cool whip, vanilla ice cream, or your favorite creamy topping for a decadent finish.

How to Serve Pumpkin Mug Cake with Chocolate Chips Recipe

The image shows two white mugs on a white marbled surface. The left mug contains three visible layers of dry ingredients: a light brown powder on the left half, a darker reddish-brown powder on the right, and a white powder centered in the middle. The right mug is filled with a smooth, thick light brown batter topped with a layer of scattered round dark brown chocolate chips that are slightly shiny. Both mugs are lit with soft natural light, creating gentle shadows. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A dollop of vanilla ice cream or cool whip on top melts slowly and creates a delightful contrast to the warm, spiced pumpkin cake. For a lighter option, a spoonful of Greek yogurt adds creaminess with a subtle tang that balances the sweetness.

Side Dishes

Since this is a single-serve mug cake, pair it with a hot cup of coffee or chai tea for an afternoon pick-me-up. A small glass of cold milk also complements the chocolate and pumpkin flavors beautifully for a nostalgic treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your pumpkin mug cake in a clear glass mug so the layers and chocolate chips are visible—this makes for a charming presentation. Sprinkle some crushed nuts or a dusting of cinnamon sugar on top to give it an extra special touch when sharing with friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (sometimes it happens), transfer the cake from the mug to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The texture may firm up, but it will still taste delicious when reheated.

Freezing

While mug cakes are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the batter in a silicone mold or small container before microwaving. Thaw completely in the fridge before cooking in the microwave as usual.

Reheating

To reheat, simply microwave the cake for 20 to 30 seconds until warm throughout. Avoid overheating or it can dry out—it’s better to reheat gently and enjoy the moist texture.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin puree for this recipe?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree is perfect and consistent for this pumpkin mug cake with chocolate chips recipe. Just use plain pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains extra spices and sugars.

Can I substitute the egg in this mug cake?

Yes, you can use a flax or chia egg as a vegan-friendly substitute, but keep in mind the texture might be slightly different—still tasty but a bit denser.

Is it okay to use regular sugar instead of coconut sugar?

Definitely. Regular granulated sugar will work fine, but coconut sugar adds a slight caramel note that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.

How do I know when the mug cake is done cooking?

The cake should look set on top and spring back lightly when touched. Since microwaving times vary, start checking at about 60 seconds to avoid overcooking.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Using a gluten-free 1-to-1 baking flour blend works perfectly for keeping this recipe safe for gluten-sensitive eaters without sacrificing texture or flavor.

Final Thoughts

I cannot recommend the Pumpkin Mug Cake with Chocolate Chips Recipe enough if you want a fast, comforting dessert that celebrates fall flavors without any hassle. It’s simple, endlessly customizable, and perfectly portioned just for you or a friend. So go ahead and give it a try—you’ll fall in love with every bite and the ease of whipping up a cozy treat any time of day.