Air Fryer Red Velvet Mug Cake –– Move over cake in a mug; there’s a new sheriff in town. This air fryer red velvet mug cake is so easy to make and SO delicious that you’ll never want to make cake in a mug again! Plus, it’s the perfect dessert for craving something sweet but don’t want to bake an entire cake.

Air Fryer Red Velvet Mug Cake
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I love mug cakes in my air fryer; they are easy and fabulous. Today, I will show you one of my favorite Air Fryer Red Velvet Mug Cake recipes.

If you are unfamiliar with mug cakes, they are simply one person serving a cake inside a mug, hence the name mug cake.

Today, I show you how to make a simple mug cake using only cake mix and apple sauce. I topped mine off with some whipped cream, which makes for a perfect dessert for one.

What Is A Red Velvet Mug Cake?

Do you love the taste of red velvet cake but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen baking one? Then this is the recipe for you! In just minutes, you can have a delicious mug cake that tastes just like red velvet. So, what is a red velvet mug cake? Let’s find out!

Air Fryer Red Velvet Mug Cake

Are you looking for a quick, easy dessert to make in your mug? Well, look no further than a red velvet mug cake! This delicious dessert is made with cocoa powder, sugar, butter, and eggs, and it’s perfect for when you need something sweet and satisfying in a hurry. So grab your ingredients and get baking!

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Red Velvet Mug Cake

Indulge in the irresistible allure of a classic red velvet treat with this convenient Air Fryer Red Velvet Mug Cake recipe. Using just 6 tablespoons of red velvet cake mix and a hint of unsweetened applesauce, this mug cake promises a quick and decadent dessert option, perfect for satisfying those sweet cravings with minimal effort. Top it off with your choice of frosting or whipped cream for an extra touch of luxury.

How To Make Air Fryer Red Velvet Cake

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

  • Red velvet cake mix: This provides the base flavor and color for the cake, ensuring that signature red velvet taste and appearance.
  • Unsweetened applesauce: Acts as a substitute for oil, adding moisture to the cake while keeping it lower in fat.
  • Optional: Frosting or whipped cream: Adds a delightful finishing touch, enhancing the indulgence of the mug cake.

How To Make Air Fryer Red Velvet Mug Cake

Here are the simple steps to make it in your air fryer,

Air Fryer Red Velvet Mug Cake
In an oven-proof mug, mix the cake mix and applesauce. Mix until well combined.
Air Fryer Red Velvet Mug Cake
Air Fryer Red Velvet Mug Cake
Set into the air fryer for 5-7 minutes at 350 degrees F (air fryer setting)
Red Velvet Cake In Mug

Recipe Variations

  • Cream Cheese Swirl: Incorporate a dollop of cream cheese into the batter for a delightful tangy contrast to the sweetness of the red velvet cake. Mix a tablespoon of softened cream cheese with the batter before cooking.
  • Chocolate Chips: For an extra burst of chocolatey goodness, sprinkle a handful of chocolate chips into the batter before air frying. The melted chocolate adds a delicious contrast to the red velvet flavor.
  • Nutty Crunch: Stir in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the batter for added texture and a nutty flavor profile. Sprinkle some on top before air frying for a crunchy finish.
  • Marshmallow Topping: Once the mug cake is cooked, sprinkle mini marshmallows on top and broil in the air fryer for a few seconds until they’re lightly toasted. This creates a gooey, marshmallowy topping reminiscent of a classic red velvet cake.
  • Raspberry Sauce: Serve the mug cake with a drizzle of homemade raspberry sauce for a fruity twist. Blend fresh or frozen raspberries with sugar and water, then strain to remove seeds for a smooth, tangy sauce.
  • Peppermint Twist: Add a peppermint extract to the batter for a festive twist. For a refreshing finish, top the cooked mug cake with crushed candy canes or peppermint candies.
  • Oreo Crumbles: Crush up some Oreo cookies and fold them into the batter for a cookies and cream-inspired variation. Sprinkle additional cookie crumbles on top before air frying for extra crunch.
  • Almond Joy Inspired: Mix shredded coconut and chopped almonds into the batter for a tropical flair reminiscent of an Almond Joy candy bar. Top with a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.
  • Orange Zest: Stir in some orange zest into the batter for a citrusy kick. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of additional zest for a refreshing dessert option.
  • Cinnamon Spice: Add a pinch of cinnamon to the batter for a warm, aromatic flavor profile. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting treat.
Air Fryer Red Velvet Mug Cake

Pro Tips

  • Sift the Cake Mix: Before mixing it with the other ingredients, sift the red velvet cake mix to ensure a smoother texture in your mug cake.
  • Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your unsweetened applesauce to come to room temperature before mixing it with the cake mix. Room temperature ingredients blend more evenly, resulting in a better texture.
  • Don’t Overmix: Mix the ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense and tough mug cake.
  • Adjust Cooking Time: Air fryers can vary in temperature, so keep an eye on your mug cake as it cooks. Start with the recommended cooking time and adjust as needed based on your air fryer’s settings.
  • Let it Rest: Allow the mug cake to cool for a minute or two before digging in. This allows it to set slightly and prevents burning your mouth.
  • Experiment with Toppings: Get creative with your toppings! Whether it’s frosting, whipped cream, sprinkles, or fruit, toppings can elevate your mug cake to the next level of deliciousness.
  • Grease the Mug: To prevent sticking, lightly grease the inside of your mug with cooking spray or butter before adding the batter.
  • Size Matters: Use a microwave-safe mug that’s large enough to accommodate the cake rising as it cooks, but not too large that it spreads out too thinly.
  • Personalize Your Mug Cake: Customize your mug cake by adding your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or even a swirl of peanut butter.
  • Serve Fresh: Mug cakes are best enjoyed immediately after cooking when they’re warm and gooey. So, indulge right away for the ultimate red velvet experience.

Faq’s

Can I use a regular oven instead of an air fryer? Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the mug cake for approximately 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Can I substitute the red velvet cake mix with another flavor? Absolutely! You can experiment with different cake mix flavors like chocolate, vanilla, or even lemon for a unique twist on the classic mug cake.

Can I make this mug cake without applesauce? Yes, you can substitute the applesauce with an equal amount of oil or melted butter for a richer texture. However, using applesauce keeps the mug cake lower in fat.

How do I know when the mug cake is done? The mug cake is done when the top is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs attached. Avoid overcooking to prevent a dry cake.

Can I make this mug cake ahead of time? While mug cakes are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the dry ingredients in advance and store them in a sealed container. When ready to enjoy, simply add the wet ingredients and cook as directed.

Can I double or triple the recipe? Yes, you can easily scale up the recipe to make multiple mug cakes. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly and use separate mugs for each cake.

Can I make this mug cake vegan? Yes, you can make this mug cake vegan by using a vegan red velvet cake mix and replacing the unsweetened applesauce with mashed banana or a vegan yogurt alternative.

Can I customize the sweetness level? Absolutely! Adjust the sweetness to your preference by adding more or less sugar to the batter, or by choosing a sweeter or less sweet frosting or topping.

Air Fryer Red Velvet Mug Cake

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Air Fryer Red Velvet Mug Cake

Air Fryer Red Velvet Mug Cake

5 from 8 votes
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 17 minutes
Servings: 2 Servings

Description

Air Fryer Red Velvet Mug Cake –– Move over cake in a mug, there's a new sheriff in town. This air fryer red velvet mug cake is so easy to make and SO delicious, that you'll never want to make cake in a mug again! Plus, it's the perfect dessert for when you're craving something sweet but don't want to bake an entire cake.

Ingredients 

  • 6 tablespoons red velvet cake mix
  • 3 tablespoons unsweetened applesauce

Optional: Frosting or whipped cream

    Instructions

    • In an ovenproof mug, mix the cake mix and applesauce. Mix until well combined.
    • Set into the air fryer for 5-7 minutes at 350 degree F (air fryer setting)
    • Let cool before serving.
    • Plate, serve, and enjoy!

    Equipment

    • Air Fryer
    • Mug or Ramekin, both oven safe
    • Cooking Spray

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1ServingCalories: 199kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 3gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 366mgPotassium: 163mgFiber: 1gSugar: 19gVitamin A: 8IUVitamin C: 0.2mgCalcium: 67mgIron: 2mg

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