Introduction

This decadent cheesecake in a mug is the perfect quick and easy dessert for when you want creamy indulgence without the wait. Ready in just minutes, it combines a buttery graham cracker crust with a smooth, rich cheesecake filling, all cooked right in your microwave.

A single-layer cheesecake with a smooth, creamy pale yellow top and lightly browned edges sits inside a blue ceramic mug with a curved handle, placed on crumpled white paper over a wooden board. A silver spoon rests to the right of the mug, all set against a white marbled surface background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 oz cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon sour cream
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons crushed graham crackers
1 tablespoon melted butter
1 tablespoon fresh fruit or chocolate chips for topping (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: In a small bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers with melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a microwave-safe mug to form the crust.
Step 2: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Add the sour cream and flour, mixing well until fully combined.
Step 3: Pour the cheesecake filling over the graham cracker crust in the mug and smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 4: Microwave the mug for 30 to 40 seconds, or until just set. Be careful not to overcook, as the cheesecake will continue to firm up as it cools.
Step 5: Let the mug cheesecake cool for a few minutes before adding fresh fruit or chocolate chips on top, if desired. Enjoy your quick and delicious mug dessert!

Tips & Variations

Use low-fat cream cheese and substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to lighten up the dessert without sacrificing creaminess.
Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or lemon zest to the filling for a flavor twist.
Swap the graham cracker crust with crushed cookies or nuts for variation in texture and taste.
If you don’t have a microwave, bake the mixture in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 15 minutes.

Storage

Since this is a single-serving dessert best enjoyed fresh, it’s ideal to eat it right away. If you need to store it, cover the mug with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 1 day. Reheat gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving if you prefer it warm.

How to Serve

A close-up of a mug filled with cheesecake, showing two distinct layers: a slightly browned, firm crust around the edges, and a smooth, creamy pale yellow cheesecake layer on top with a slight swirl pattern in the middle. The mug is light blue with a shiny, smooth texture, and it sits on white parchment paper over a wooden surface. Next to the mug is a silver spoon, and the background has a soft, out-of-focus look with a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of crust?

Yes, you can substitute graham crackers with crushed digestive biscuits, cookies, or even finely chopped nuts to create the crust, depending on your taste preference.

How do I know when the cheesecake is cooked properly?

The cheesecake should be just set in the center but still slightly jiggly. It will continue to firm up as it cools, so avoid overcooking to keep it creamy and soft.