Cottage Cheese Lemon Poppy Seed Mug Cake

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This Cottage Cheese Lemon Poppy Seed Mug Cake is soft, fluffy, high in protein, and ready in just a few minutes. The cottage cheese keeps it moist while adding extra protein, and the lemon and poppy seeds give it a fresh, bakery-style flavor. It’s perfect for breakfast, a healthy snack, or a quick dessert.

Recipe Information

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2–3 minutes
  • Total Time: 8 minutes
  • Servings: 1 mug cake

Ingredients

  • ¼ cup (60g) cottage cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or oat flour for a heartier texture)
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar or honey
  • 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Optional Toppings

  • Powdered sugar
  • Lemon glaze
  • Fresh blueberries or raspberries
  • Greek yogurt
  • Whipped cream

Instructions

Step 1: Blend the Batter

For the smoothest texture, blend the cottage cheese until creamy. If you don’t mind small curds, you can simply whisk it well.

Add to a bowl:

  • Cottage cheese
  • Egg
  • Sugar (or honey)
  • Lemon juice
  • Lemon zest
  • Vanilla

Whisk until combined.

Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients

Mix in:

  • Flour
  • Baking powder
  • Salt
  • Poppy seeds

Stir just until smooth.

Step 3: Prepare the Mug

Lightly grease a 12–16 oz microwave-safe mug.

Pour the batter into the mug, filling it no more than two-thirds full.

Step 4: Microwave

Cook on high power for 90 seconds, then check for doneness.

If needed, microwave for another 15–30 seconds until the center is set. Avoid overcooking, as the cake can become dry.

Step 5: Cool

Let the mug cake rest for 2 minutes before eating. It will continue to set as it cools.

Optional Lemon Glaze

Ingredients

  • ¼ cup powdered sugar
  • 1–2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon lemon zest

Directions

Whisk together until smooth and drizzle over the warm mug cake.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy your mug cake:

  • Warm with Greek yogurt
  • Topped with fresh berries
  • With a dollop of whipped cream
  • Alongside tea or coffee
  • With a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness

Storage

This mug cake is best enjoyed fresh. If needed, cover and refrigerate for up to 1 day, then reheat in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.

Tips for Success

  • Blend the cottage cheese for a smoother, cake-like texture.
  • Use fresh lemon zest for the brightest citrus flavor.
  • Don’t overmix the batter.
  • Microwave times vary by appliance, so start with the shorter cooking time.
  • Add a few white chocolate chips or blueberries for a delicious variation.

Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 290
  • Protein: 17g
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Fat: 13g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 340mg

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