Piña Colada Mug Cake

This tropical pineapple coconut mug cake brings the flavors of a piña colada to a quick microwave dessert. Having created dozens of care package recipes, I developed this 3-2-1 mug cake specifically for military deployments where kitchen access is limited but the need for a taste of home is strong.

My nephew stationed overseas requested something sweet that felt like summer, and this tropical treat became his favorite deployed dessert. The coconut cream drizzle makes it feel indulgent despite the simple preparation.

Ingredients

• Angel Food Cake mix: creates the light fluffy texture without adding oil or eggs
• Yellow cake mix: adds richness and a buttery vanilla flavor
• Sweetened shredded coconut: brings authentic tropical taste and chewy texture
• Pineapple tidbits packed in juice: provide bursts of fruity sweetness and moisture
• Coconut cream or syrup: creates that signature piña colada flavor profile
• Water: activates the cake mix without needing additional ingredients

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the mix:

Combine both cake mixes completely in a gallon ziplock bag. The angel food mix contains whipped egg whites that create lift while the yellow cake provides structure and flavor. Shake thoroughly to ensure even distribution of both mixes.

Prepare your mug:

Coat the inside of your microwave safe mug with non stick spray. This crucial step ensures your cake will release easily. Paper cups work perfectly for care packages where cooking spray might not be available.

Mix your ingredients:

Follow the 3 2 1 ratio by mixing 3 tablespoons of combined cake mix with 2 tablespoons of water. Stir until smooth then fold in 1 tablespoon each of coconut and pineapple pieces. The batter will be thick and fluffy.

Microwave the cake:

Cook on high power for exactly 1 minute. The cake rises quickly and will be fully set but still moist. Watch it rise like magic through the microwave door—a delight for both kids and adults.

Add toppings:

Finish with a sprinkle of additional coconut, a few pineapple pieces, and a generous drizzle of coconut cream. These finishing touches transform a simple mug cake into a dessert worthy of any restaurant.

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The coconut cream is my secret ingredient that elevates this from a simple cake to a true piña colada experience. My family now requests these on camping trips where we make them over a campfire in a cast iron mug instead of a microwave.

Care Package Tips

Creating care packages for deployed service members requires special consideration for shipping conditions. The beauty of this recipe is that all components remain shelf stable during transit. Label everything clearly with "Piña Colada Mug Cake" and include simple instructions. For international shipments, include disposable paper cups since access to mugs and cooking spray might be limited. The recipient will appreciate both the thoughtful dessert and the minimal cleanup required.

Storage And Shelf Life

The combined dry cake mix will stay fresh for up to 6 months when stored in a sealed container or ziplock bag in a cool, dry place. Once opened, the coconut should be used within 3 months for best texture and flavor. For recipients who might not use the entire mix quickly, suggest storing it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. The prepared cake should be eaten immediately as mug cakes do not store well once cooked.

Variations To Try

Experiment with different flavor combinations while keeping the same 3 2 1 ratio. Try adding a tablespoon of chocolate chips for a tropical chocolate version. Replace the pineapple with drained mandarin oranges for a citrus twist. For a more dessert like texture, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream instead of coconut cream on top of the warm cake. During holiday seasons, add a drop of rum extract to the batter for an authentic piña colada flavor without any alcohol content.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, fresh pineapple works well, but ensure it's finely chopped and drained to avoid excess moisture.

→ How can I make this mug cake dairy-free?

Ensure the cake mix and coconut cream or syrup are dairy-free, and you're good to go!

→ What if I don't have coconut cream or syrup?

You can substitute it with a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk or leave it out for a lighter version.

→ Can I prepare the mix ahead of time?

Absolutely! Combine the cake mixes in a ziplock bag, label it, and store for future use. Just add water, coconut, and pineapple as needed.

→ How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the mug?

Lightly coat the inside of your mug with non-stick spray before adding the mix.