Creamy Cheesecake in a Mug Recipe Easy Dessert in 5 Minutes

Picture this: the heavenly aroma of sweet vanilla and cream cheese wafting through your kitchen as you prepare to dig into a warm, luscious cheesecake—made in just five minutes! The first time I tried making this creamy cheesecake in a mug, I couldn’t believe how such a simple recipe could deliver the same velvety texture and indulgent flavor as a classic baked cheesecake. It was one of those magical moments where I paused, smiled, and thought, “Why didn’t I try this sooner?”

Honestly, this recipe has become my go-to for those days when I’m craving a sweet treat but don’t want to whip out the springform pan, preheat the oven, or wait hours for dessert. It’s perfect when you want a little taste of comfort without the commitment of baking an entire cheesecake. My family loves this so much that it’s become a little ritual to make these mug cheesecakes on cozy Friday nights while we binge-watch movies.

Whether you’re whipping this up for yourself or treating your loved ones to a quick dessert, I promise this creamy cheesecake in a mug will deliver pure, nostalgic comfort in every spoonful. It’s simple, satisfying, and dangerously easy—so get ready, because you’ll want to make this one again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: This recipe comes together in just 5 minutes and cooks in your microwave. No waiting for hours or dealing with water baths!
• Simple Ingredients: Everything you need is likely already in your kitchen. No fancy gadgets or trips to specialty stores required.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a late-night snack, a weekday treat, or an impromptu dessert for guests, this recipe fits the bill.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves cheesecake, and this single-serving mug version is ideal for sharing the love without the hassle.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The creamy, rich texture and the hint of vanilla make this dessert a sure hit. It’s like a warm hug in dessert form!

What sets this recipe apart is how such simple steps and ingredients can recreate the luxurious texture of a traditional cheesecake. Plus, it’s customizable! You can add your favorite toppings—think crushed cookies, fresh berries, or even chocolate drizzle—to make it your own. This isn’t just another mug dessert; it’s your personal slice of joy, crafted with ease and love.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver creamy goodness without the fuss. You probably already have most of these in your kitchen!

• Cream cheese: Softened to room temperature for the creamiest texture.
• Sour cream: Adds tangy richness to balance the sweetness.
• Granulated sugar: Just enough to sweeten without overpowering the flavors.
• Vanilla extract: A splash for that classic, warm flavor (use pure vanilla extract for the best taste).
• Egg: Just one, beaten, to help bind the ingredients and give the cheesecake its structure.
• Graham crackers: Crushed to create the perfect crumbly base (use gluten-free if needed).
• Melted butter: To hold the graham cracker crust together.

If you’re out of sour cream, you can substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option. Want to make it dairy-free? Use vegan cream cheese and coconut yogurt. The beauty of this recipe is how flexible it is—perfect for any dietary preferences or ingredient availability.

Equipment Needed

• Microwave-safe mug: A sturdy mug is essential. Avoid anything with metallic accents.
• Microwave: This recipe is made entirely in the microwave, so you’ll need one!
• Small mixing bowl: For combining your cheesecake ingredients.
• Fork or whisk: To mix the batter until smooth.
• Measuring spoons and cups: Precise measurements lead to perfect results.

If you don’t have graham crackers, you can use crushed digestive biscuits or shortbread cookies as a substitute for the crust. No small mixing bowl? You can mix everything directly in the mug—it’s one less dish to clean!

Preparation Method

1. Start by preparing your mug. Pick a microwave-safe mug and lightly grease the inside with butter or a non-stick spray.
2. Crush 1-2 graham crackers into crumbs and mix them with 1 tablespoon (14g) melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the mug to form a crust.
3. In a small mixing bowl, combine 2 ounces (55g) softened cream cheese, 1 tablespoon (15g) sour cream, 2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Add 1 large egg, beaten. Mix gently until fully combined. Avoid overmixing—this helps prevent the cheesecake from being overly dense.
5. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the prepared crust in the mug.
6. Place the mug in the microwave and cook on high for 60 seconds. Check the cheesecake; if the center is still liquid, cook in 15-second increments until it’s set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
7. Carefully remove the mug from the microwave and let it cool for 2-3 minutes before serving.

Pro tip: If you’re adding toppings like berries or chocolate chips, sprinkle them on before microwaving for extra flavor!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Don’t overmix: Mixing too vigorously can introduce air into the batter, leading to cracks or uneven cooking.
• Use room temperature ingredients: Softened cream cheese blends better, ensuring a smooth texture.
• Be cautious with microwave time: Overcooking can result in a rubbery texture—stop cooking as soon as the center is slightly jiggly.
• Prep ahead: Crush the graham crackers and mix the batter ahead of time to save minutes on busy nights.
• Choose the right mug: A wide, shallow mug works best for even cooking and easy scooping.

Variations & Adaptations

• Chocolate Cheesecake: Add 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder to the batter and sprinkle chocolate chips on top before microwaving.
• Fruit Swirl: Add 1 tablespoon of your favorite jam or fruit puree and swirl it into the batter for a fruity twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap the graham crackers for crushed gluten-free cookies or almond flour.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use vegan cream cheese, coconut yogurt, and a flaxseed egg for a plant-based alternative.
• Nutty Delight: Sprinkle crushed pecans or walnuts over the crust for added crunch.

Personally, I love adding a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce on top—it’s like a fancy dessert café creation without ever leaving the house!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Once cooled slightly, serve your cheesecake warm for a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth experience. For a chilled version, place the mug in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving—it’s a great way to enjoy a classic cold cheesecake texture.

Pair this mug cheesecake with a steaming cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate indulgence. You could also add a few fresh berries or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a pop of flavor and color.

To store leftovers (if there are any!), cover the mug with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to two days. To reheat, zap it in the microwave for about 15 seconds, but honestly, it’s just as delicious eaten cold the next day.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

While this mug cheesecake is definitely a treat, it’s portion-controlled, making it a great option for satisfying sweet cravings without overindulging. Here’s an approximate breakdown:

• Calories: 310
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Protein: 5g

The cream cheese provides calcium and protein, while the sour cream adds probiotics for gut health. If you opt for dairy-free substitutes, you’re still getting a delicious dessert that fits your dietary needs. Just be mindful of allergens like dairy, eggs, and gluten if serving others.

Conclusion

This creamy cheesecake in a mug recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a quick, effortless dessert that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Whether you’re customizing it with toppings or enjoying it straight out of the mug, you’ll want to bookmark this recipe for those days when you need a little sweet escape.

Creamy Cheesecake in a Mug Recipe Easy Dessert in 5 Minutes

Print Recipe

A quick and easy single-serving cheesecake made in a mug, delivering the same velvety texture and indulgent flavor as a classic baked cheesecake in just 5 minutes.

• Author: savannah
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 minute
• Total Time: 6 minutes
• Yield: 1 serving 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 ounces (55g) softened cream cheese
• 1 tablespoon (15g) sour cream
• 2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1–2 graham crackers, crushed
• 1 tablespoon (14g) melted butter

Instructions

1. Prepare a microwave-safe mug and lightly grease the inside with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Crush 1-2 graham crackers into crumbs and mix them with 1 tablespoon melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the mug to form a crust.
3. In a small mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Add the beaten egg and mix gently until fully combined, avoiding overmixing.
5. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the prepared crust in the mug.
6. Place the mug in the microwave and cook on high for 60 seconds. Check the cheesecake; if the center is still liquid, cook in 15-second increments until set but slightly jiggly in the center.
7. Carefully remove the mug from the microwave and let it cool for 2-3 minutes before serving.

Notes

[‘Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother texture.’, ‘Avoid overmixing to prevent cracks or uneven cooking.’, ‘Stop microwaving as soon as the center is slightly jiggly to avoid a rubbery texture.’, ‘Customize with toppings like berries, chocolate chips, or caramel drizzle.’]

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 mug cheesecake
• Calories: 310
• Fat: 22
• Carbohydrates: 20
• Protein: 5

Keywords: cheesecake, mug dessert, quick dessert, easy cheesecake, single-serving dessert