Warm, gooey cinnamon rolls meet wholesome oats in this Microwave Cinnamon Roll Oatmeal in a Mug. Perfect for busy mornings, this cozy treat combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon, brown sugar, and creamy oats in just 7 minutes. The soft, pillowy texture of the oats melds with the sweet, aromatic swirls of cinnamon, creating a breakfast that feels indulgent yet nourishing.
With a prep time of only 5 minutes and a quick 2-minute cook time, this recipe is your shortcut to a decadent morning. Each spoonful delivers a rich, buttery sweetness balanced by the heartiness of oats, making it a satisfying start to your day. It’s like dessert for breakfast—without the guilt!
Ingredients for Microwave Cinnamon Roll Oatmeal in a Mug
- 4 tablespoons quick cooking oats
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- ½ cup (4oz /115g) water
- 4 tablespoons milk (regular or dairy-free)
- For the Glaze:
- ¼ cup (1oz/ 30g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 teaspoons milk
- 3 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
- ⅛ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Oatmeal: In a large microwavable mug (to prevent overflow), combine the oats, cinnamon, brown sugar, milk, and water. Stir well to mix.
- Microwave the Oatmeal: Place the mug in the microwave and cook on high for 1 minute. Stir the oatmeal, then continue cooking in 20-30 second intervals until the oatmeal is fully cooked and has reached your desired consistency. Watch closely to prevent overflow. (Total cook time may vary based on microwave wattage; tested in a 1200W microwave.)
- Make the Cream Cheese Glaze: In a small microwave-safe bowl, heat the cream cheese for 10 seconds to soften. Add the confectioners’ sugar, milk, and vanilla extract (if using). Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble: Drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the hot oatmeal. For added crunch, sprinkle with toasted pecans (optional).
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy your warm, comforting cinnamon roll oatmeal straight from the mug!
Topping Ideas to Elevate Your Oatmeal
While the cream cheese glaze and toasted pecans are delicious, feel free to get creative with your toppings! Try adding a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness, or sprinkle on fresh berries like blueberries or sliced strawberries for a fruity twist. For a crunchy texture, consider granola or chopped almonds. Pro tip: A pinch of sea salt can balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors.
Quick Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers (though it’s so good, you might not!), store the oatmeal in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warm. Add a splash of milk or water to restore the creamy consistency. Note: The glaze is best added fresh, so store it separately and drizzle it on after reheating.
Customize Your Oatmeal with Recipe Variations
This recipe is super versatile! Swap the brown sugar for maple syrup or honey for a different sweetness profile. If you’re vegan, use dairy-free milk and a plant-based cream cheese alternative. For added protein, stir in a tablespoon of peanut butter or almond butter before cooking. Feeling adventurous? Add a dash of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon for a spiced-up twist.
Microwave Safety and Equipment Tips
Always use a large, microwave-safe mug to prevent overflow, as the oatmeal can bubble up during cooking. If your microwave is less powerful than 1200W, start with 1 minute and adjust the cooking time in 15-second increments. Keep a close eye on it to avoid spills. Bonus tip: Place a microwave-safe plate under the mug for extra security.
Common Questions Answered
Can I use rolled oats instead of quick oats? Yes, but they’ll take longer to cook—microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until tender. What if I don’t have confectioners’ sugar? You can blend granulated sugar in a blender until fine or skip the glaze and use a drizzle of honey instead. Can I make this ahead of time? While it’s best fresh, you can prep the dry ingredients in a mug the night before and add the wet ingredients in the morning.
Microwave Cinnamon Roll Oatmeal in a Mug
Ingredients
Oatmeal
- 4 tablespoons quick cooking oats
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- 1/2 cup water 4oz /115g
- 4 tablespoons milk regular or dairy free
Glaze
- 1/4 cup cream cheese softened, 1oz/ 30g
- 2 teaspoons milk
- 3 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
- 1/8 teaspoon vanilla extract optional
Instructions
- In a large microwavable mug add in the oats, cinnamon, sugar, milk and water and stir. You need to use a large mug as the mix can bubble up.
- Place in the microwave and cook for 1 minutes. Stir the oatmeal and then continue cooking at 20-30 second intervals or until the oatmeal is cooked. Keep a close eye as it cooks as you don’t want it to overflow in your microwave. The cook time is based on my microwave which is 1200W so your timing maybe vary depending on your microwave.
- Cream Cheese Glaze: Microwave cream cheese in a small bowl for about 10 seconds until soft. Stir in confectioners’ sugar, milk and vanilla until creamy.
- Swirl the cream cheese glaze over your hot oatmeal and scatter some toasted pecans on top.
