You know those nights when you’re curled up on the couch, craving something sweet, but don’t want the hassle of baking a whole batch of cookies? That’s where this air fryer mug cookie swoops in like a dessert superhero. Just 5 pantry staples, one mug, and 10 minutes in the air fryer—boom. You’ve got a warm, gooey single-serving cookie with zero leftovers to tempt you tomorrow (though let’s be real, I’ve “accidentally” made two back-to-back more times than I’ll admit).
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Mug Cookie
- Emergency dessert mode: From craving to cookie in 15 minutes flat
- No sharing required: Perfect portion when you want *just* one (no willpower needed)
- Minimal cleanup: One mug = one happy dishwasher (or hands, if you’re licking the spoon)
Ingredients for Air Fryer Mug Cookie 5 Ingredient
Grab these pantry staples—you probably have them all right now:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (microwave it in your mug first—one less dish!)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (that plain white sugar in your cupboard)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (light or dark both work—I use whatever’s open)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (the good stuff if you’ve got it)
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour (just spoon it in—no need to level)
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Brown sugar swap? Coconut sugar works but makes the cookie drier—add 1/2 teaspoon extra butter if you try it. Gluten-free? Use a 1:1 GF flour blend (I’ve tested Bob’s Red Mill with success). No vanilla? Skip it—the cookie still tastes great! But whatever you do, don’t replace the butter with oil unless you want a sad, greasy puck.
How to Make Air Fryer Mug Cookie 5 Ingredient
Ready for the easiest cookie of your life? Here’s how it all comes together:
- Melt the butter right in your microwave-safe mug—about 20 seconds should do it. Swirl it around so the whole mug gets buttery goodness.
- Mix in both sugars and vanilla with a fork until it looks like wet sand. Don’t worry about lumps—they’ll disappear later.
- Stir in flour just until you don’t see white streaks. Overmixing makes tough cookies (trust me, I’ve learned the hard way).
- Air fry at 350°F for 8-10 minutes—no preheating needed! The edges should be golden, but the center will still look slightly underbaked (that’s where the magic happens).
- Let it sit for 2 minutes before diving in. It keeps cooking from residual heat and firms up perfectly.
Pro Tips for Perfect Mug Cookies
- Mug matters: Use a shorter, wide mug (12oz+) so heat circulates evenly. Tall skinny ones make lopsided cookies.
- Check early: Air fryers vary—peek at 6 minutes. If the top isn’t set, add 1-minute increments.
- Butter warning: If your mug’s rim gets buttery, wipe it before air frying to prevent smoke (voice of experience talking).
Variations for Air Fryer Mug Cookie
Once you’ve mastered the basic 5-ingredient version, try these easy twists—each keeps the “no fuss” spirit alive:
- Chocolate chip: Stir in 1 tablespoon mini chips (they distribute better than regular-sized ones)
- Peanut butter: Swap 1 tablespoon butter for creamy PB—adds richness without extra dishes
- Cinnamon-spiced: Mix 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon with the flour—tastes like snickerdoodle magic
- Nutty crunch: Fold in 1 tablespoon chopped walnuts or pecans right before cooking
My personal favorite? Chocolate chip with a tiny pinch of sea salt on top right after air frying. Sweet-salty perfection in every bite!
Serving Your Air Fryer Mug Cookie
This cookie begs to be eaten warm—like, immediately warm. The center stays gloriously gooey for about 5 minutes post-air-frying before it starts to set. My move? Plop a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top and watch it melt into the cracks. Whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel work wonders too, but honestly? Sometimes I just grab a spoon and attack it straight from the mug (no judgment here).
Storage & Reheating
Let’s be real—this cookie rarely needs storing because it disappears too fast! But if by some miracle you have leftovers, cover the mug tightly with plastic wrap (or transfer to an airtight container) for up to 2 days. To revive it, microwave for 15-20 seconds until just warm—the edges will crisp back up while the center stays deliciously soft.
Nutrition Information
Just so you know what you’re diving into (not that it ever stops me), here’s the scoop on this single-serving indulgence. Keep in mind these numbers can change based on your exact ingredients—especially if you go wild with chocolate chips! I calculate based on standard ingredients, but your favorite vanilla brand or flour type might tweak these slightly. No guilt trips here—sometimes a warm cookie is just what the soul needs! For more general information on cookie nutrition, you can check out resources on nutrition facts.
- Calories: About 350 per mug (worth every one!)
- Sugar: 25g (it’s dessert—live a little)
- Fat: 15g (hello, butter—the flavor MVP)
- Protein: 3g (technically counts as a recovery snack… right?)
FAQ About Air Fryer Mug Cookies
Can I double the recipe? Nope—these cook best as single servings. If you need two (no judgment!), mix them separately and air fry in individual mugs. Stacking batter makes one sad, undercooked blob.
Can I microwave it instead? Technically yes, but you’ll miss the air fryer’s crispy edges. Microwaving gives you a cakey texture (and sometimes rubbery if you nuke too long). If you are curious about the science behind microwave cooking versus convection heating, reputable sources often explain the differences in food heating.
Help! My cookie overflowed! Use at least a 12oz mug—the batter puffs while cooking. Pro tip: fill only 2/3 full if adding mix-ins. And maybe keep a baking sheet under your air fryer… just in case.
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“5-Ingredient Air Fryer Mug Cookie: Irresistible 10-Minute Dessert”
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and easy air fryer mug cookie made with just 5 ingredients. Perfect for a single-serving dessert.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Instructions
- In a microwave-safe mug, melt the butter.
- Add granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir well.
- Mix in the flour until combined.
- Place the mug in the air fryer basket.
- Cook at 350°F for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are golden.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For a softer cookie, reduce cooking time by 1-2 minutes.
- Add chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor.
- Use a microwave-safe mug that fits in your air fryer.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American