A gooey, pull-apart, single-serve vegan monkey bread, this mug dessert is loaded with a rich cinnamon-caramel sauce and made in just minutes. Perfect for when you want a quick, indulgent treat without turning on the oven.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Vegan Monkey Bread in a Mug is the ultimate quick-fix dessert for cinnamon lovers and those following a plant-based diet. It’s soft, sweet, and sticky, with a decadent vegan caramel sauce made from wholesome ingredients. There’s no need for yeast or long proofing times—just mix, roll, microwave, and enjoy. Whether you’re craving a comforting solo dessert or looking for a fast, dairy-free option, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the dough:

all-purpose flour
baking powder
baking soda
salt
plant-based milk
maple syrup or sugar
neutral oil (canola or coconut)

For the cinnamon sugar coating:

brown sugar
ground cinnamon

For the vegan caramel sauce:

almond butter or peanut butter
maple syrup
coconut milk or oat milk
salt

directions

In a small bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt.
Add the plant-based milk, maple syrup (or sugar), and oil. Stir until a soft dough forms.
In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar and cinnamon for the coating.
Roll the dough into small bite-sized balls. Roll each ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
Layer the coated dough balls in a microwave-safe mug or ramekin.
In another bowl, whisk together the almond butter, maple syrup, coconut milk, and a pinch of salt to make the vegan caramel sauce.
Pour half of the caramel sauce over the dough balls.
Microwave for 60–90 seconds, or until the dough is puffed and cooked through.
Drizzle the remaining caramel sauce over the top and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 1 mug
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 1.5 minutes
Total Time: 6.5 minutes
Calories per serving: 300 kcal

Variations

Nut-Free Version: Use sunflower seed butter and oat milk to keep it nut-free.
Chocolate Swirl: Add a few vegan chocolate chips to the dough before microwaving.
Apple Cinnamon: Mix in small pieces of apple for a fruit-filled twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a wheat-free version.
Extra Caramel: Double the sauce portion for a richer, stickier finish.

storage/reheating

This recipe is best enjoyed fresh, straight from the microwave. However, if you need to store it, cover the mug and refrigerate for up to 1 day. Reheat in the microwave for about 15–20 seconds before serving. Note that the texture may be slightly firmer after reheating.

FAQs

Can I bake this instead of microwaving?

Yes, you can bake it in an oven-safe ramekin at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–12 minutes, but the microwave method is quicker and just as tasty.

Is this recipe nut-free?

It can be! Simply use sunflower seed butter and a nut-free plant milk like oat milk.

Can I make this without oil?

You may omit the oil, but it helps create a tender texture. The result without oil might be a bit more dense.

What other sweeteners can I use?

You can replace maple syrup with agave, date syrup, or regular sugar.

How do I know when it’s done in the microwave?

The dough will puff up and no longer appear wet on top. It should feel firm to the touch but not dry.

Can I make more than one serving at a time?

Yes, just multiply the ingredients and prepare in separate mugs. Microwave them one at a time for the best results.

Will any plant milk work?

Yes, almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk are all suitable options.

Can I skip the cinnamon sugar coating?

You can, but it’s a key part of the monkey bread flavor. It adds both sweetness and spice.

How can I make it less sweet?

Reduce the sugar in the dough or skip the caramel drizzle for a milder version.

Can I add nuts or seeds for crunch?

Yes, chopped pecans or walnuts make a great addition to the layers.

Conclusion

Vegan Monkey Bread in a Mug is a quick and cozy dessert that captures all the sticky, spiced indulgence of traditional monkey bread in a single-serving format. Made with wholesome, plant-based ingredients, it’s ideal for late-night cravings or a fun weekend treat. Fast, fuss-free, and delicious—this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a simple, satisfying vegan dessert.