Name: Microwave Apple Crisp in a Mug Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 3 min
Total time: 13 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 small apple (any variety, peeled and sliced thin); 1/2 tablespoon melted butter; 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 teaspoon brown sugar; 1 teaspoon flour; 2 tablespoons softened butter (not melted); 1 tablespoon flour; 3 tablespoons old fashioned oats; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

If you’re craving a warm, cozy dessert but don’t want to heat up the whole kitchen or spend hours baking, this Microwave Apple Crisp in a Mug Recipe is an absolute game-changer. I love how quickly it comes together and how perfectly it satisfies that fall-spiced apple craving—all in a single serving you can whip up in just minutes. Stick around and I’ll share my favorite tips to make this little mug of comfort your new go-to treat.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Super Quick and Easy: You can have a warm dessert ready in under 15 minutes without any complicated steps.
Single-Serving Convenience: Perfect for those moments when you want a treat just for yourself without leftovers.
Classic Flavors in a Mini Package: The comforting combo of cinnamon-spiced apples and a buttery oatmeal topping is just heavenly.
No Oven Needed: Ideal for busy days or when you just don’t want to crank up the oven heat.

The image shows three white ceramic mugs filled with apple crisp, each with a thick layer of baked oats and cinnamon topping visible on top. Inside the mugs, beneath the crumble topping, there are slices of soft, cooked apple with a light yellow color tinged with brown spices. The mug at the top right also has two round scoops of creamy vanilla ice cream melting slightly into the warm apple crisp. The mugs are placed on a white marbled surface with two fresh apple slices nearby and a pale green cloth with silver spoons resting on it to the side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Microwave Apple Crisp in a Mug Recipe really comes from simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that work so well together. I always keep these on hand for when that apple craving strikes, and you’ll find it’s super easy to swap certain things based on what you’ve got in your kitchen.

Small apple: I like to peel and slice mine thin for quick cooking; any variety works, but tart apples like Granny Smith add a nice zing.
Melted butter: Just a little to help the apple filling stay moist and flavorful.
Cinnamon: A must for that cozy fall spice feeling.
Brown sugar: It brings a rich sweetness that caramelizes wonderfully in the microwave.
Flour: It thickens the juicy apple mixture so it holds together nicely.
Softened butter (not melted): This works into the crisp topping to create that crumbly, buttery texture I adore.
Old fashioned oats: They add chewiness and heartiness to the topping—don’t skip these!

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

One of the things I love most about this Microwave Apple Crisp in a Mug Recipe is how easy it is to personalize. Over time, I’ve swapped different toppings and mix-ins depending on my mood or what I have on hand, and each version turns out fantastic.

Make it nutty: Adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the crisp topping gives it an amazing crunch—I swear my family goes crazy for this texture boost.
Go gluten-free: Swap out the regular flour for almond flour or a gluten-free blend without issue; the oats keep the topping nice and hearty.
Add extra spice: I like to throw in a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for a little more warmth during fall—trust me, it takes the flavor up a notch.
Try mixed fruit: Sometimes I replace half the apples with pears or even berries for a fresh twist that’s still so satisfying.

How to Make Microwave Apple Crisp in a Mug Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Apple Filling

Start by peeling and slicing your small apple into thin pieces—thin slices cook faster and get tender without turning mushy. In a small bowl, mix the apple slices with the melted butter, cinnamon, brown sugar, and a bit of flour. The flour helps thicken the juices so your filling isn’t watery. I discovered this trick after my first few attempts, and it really makes a difference!

Step 2: Make the Crisp Topping

In another bowl, combine softened butter (make sure it’s not melted), flour, oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Use a fork to work the butter into the dry ingredients until you get a crumbly texture. I like to take my time here because the size of the crumbs affects the texture—you want some small bits and a few bigger clumps for that perfect crisp.

Step 3: Layer and Microwave

Grab a microwave-safe mug or small ramekin and layer half of the apple mixture on the bottom. Sprinkle half the crisp topping over the apples, then repeat with the remaining apple filling and topping. Pop it in the microwave and cook on high for 3 minutes. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your microwave, so if it’s your first time, watch carefully and adjust as needed—just avoid overcooking or it can dry out.

Step 4: Let It Cool and Serve

Carefully remove the mug, as it’ll be piping hot! Let it cool for a minute or two (I know, patience is hard here), then dig in. I love to top mine with a little whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for that creamy contrast—but it’s delicious all on its own too.

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Pro Tips for Making Microwave Apple Crisp in a Mug Recipe

Slice Apples Thinly: Thin slices cook more evenly and become tender quickly without turning into applesauce.
Use Softened Butter for Topping: This ensures your topping mixes easily and bakes up crumbly instead of greasy or dense.
Microwave in Short Intervals: If you’re unsure about your microwave’s power, cook in 1-minute increments to avoid overcooking.
Let It Rest Before Eating: This lets the juices settle and cool slightly, so you don’t burn your mouth on that deliciousness.

How to Serve Microwave Apple Crisp in a Mug Recipe

A white ceramic bowl filled with a warm apple crumble dessert, featuring a golden-brown crumbly oat topping with visible oats and small nut pieces, sitting on top of soft, tender, light golden apple slices soaked in a syrupy sauce, a spoon lifts a bite showing the layered texture of crumbly topping and soft apple beneath, all placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I’m a sucker for topping this apple crisp with a scoop of classic vanilla ice cream. The way it melts into the warm oats and apples? Perfection. Alternatively, whipped cream with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce elevates it to dessert-game strong. Fresh mint leaves add a lovely pop of color if you feel fancy.

Side Dishes

This recipe really shines as a standalone treat, but if you want to round out a light meal, I love pairing the crisp with a cup of hot apple cider or a spiced chai latte. It’s the coziest combo to curl up with on a chilly evening.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve served this apple crisp in clear glass mugs so everyone can see those beautiful layers. Tying a cinnamon stick with a rustic twine ribbon around the mug is a cute touch that guests always notice. You could also sprinkle a little toasted coconut or chopped nuts on top for an extra wow factor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to make more than one serving (no judgment here!), store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. I recommend reheating gently in the microwave to bring back the warm, gooey texture.

Freezing

I usually don’t freeze this recipe because I make it fresh for each craving, but if you want to freeze, prepare and assemble the crisp (but don’t microwave). Wrap tightly and freeze for up to a month, then thaw and microwave before serving.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the microwave for 30–45 seconds, checking to avoid overheating. If you notice the topping isn’t as crisp, a quick toast under a broiler (if your mug is oven safe) for a minute refreshes that texture beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use frozen apples for the Microwave Apple Crisp in a Mug Recipe?

Frozen apples can work in a pinch, but I recommend thawing and draining them thoroughly first to avoid excess liquid ruining the crisp texture. Fresh apples always give the best results.
What type of apples is best for this recipe?

I love using firm, slightly tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp because they hold their shape and balance the sweetness of the topping perfectly.
Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Use a vegan butter substitute or coconut oil for both the melted and softened butter parts. Maple syrup can replace brown sugar for a different sweetness profile too.
How do I know when the apple crisp is done in the microwave?

The apples should be tender when pierced with a fork, and the topping should look set and slightly golden. If the topping looks wet or the apples feel firm, microwave for an additional 30 seconds and check again.

Final Thoughts

This Microwave Apple Crisp in a Mug Recipe is one of those simple, comforting treats that I turn to when I want something sweet and warm without the fuss. I used to struggle with desserts that take forever or make way too much, but this little recipe is perfect for solo indulgence or a quick warm-up after a long day. Give it a try—you might find it becoming your favorite easy fall dessert too, just like me!