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A Weight Loss Influencer Who Lost 287-Lb. Shares Her Pumpkin Pie Mug Cake Recipe That's Perfect For Slimming Down This Fall: 'Filled With Protein'

November 6, 2025 by Mariam Qayum
shefinds | Food
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If you’re craving something sweet this fall but don’t want to sabotage your fitness goals, weight loss influencer Tonya, who famously lost 287 pounds, has you covered with her high-protein Pumpkin Pie Mug Cake recipe. In a recent TikTok video, Tonya shared the quick and cozy breakfast she swears by — a warm, fluffy, pumpkin-spiced treat that’s ready in just 90 seconds and packed with nutrients to help keep you full and satisfied.

@takingmylifebackat42 Pumpkin Pie Mug Cake: 1/2 banana (optional), 1 egg, sprinkle of Pumpkin Pie Spice, 1 scoop CSE Pumpkin Pie protein powder, 1/2 serving Hiland cottage cheese, 1/4 tsp Baking powder. Cook 1 1/2 minutes in microwave. #pumpkinseason #baking #easyrecipes #protein #food @Hiland Dairy @Clean Simple Eats use 10TONYA @McCormick Spices original sound – Tonya

A Healthier Take on Pumpkin Pie

Tonya begins her fall-friendly recipe with simple, protein-rich ingredients that make this mug cake both indulgent and slimming. “I’ve got some bananas that are really ripe,” she says in her TikTok. “Normally, I’d make banana pumpkin bread, but this morning I’m doing a banana pumpkin pie mug cake.”

She uses half a banana, one egg, a scoop of pumpkin pie protein powder, and half a serving of high-protein cottage cheese — specifically calling out the Highland Pro Pack single-serve cottage cheese. “It’s filled with nothing but protein,” Tonya notes, adding that she doesn’t even measure most ingredients except for the ¼ teaspoon of baking powder, which gives the cake its perfect rise.

To flavor it, she mixes in a generous sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice and stirs everything together until smooth. “If you don’t like the cottage cheese chunks, just blend it first or use Greek yogurt,” she suggests for a creamier texture.

A Quick, Customizable Protein Treat

Once the batter is ready, Tonya pours it into a sprayed coffee mug and microwaves it for one and a half minutes. “You can also make this in the oven or on the stovetop,” she adds, emphasizing how versatile the recipe is. “You can make muffins, bread, pancakes — even waffles. The options are endless!”

When it’s done, the result is a fluffy, golden, protein-packed mug cake that smells just like fall. Tonya tops hers with a dollop of sugar-free pumpkin cold foam (though she notes sugar-free whipped cream works perfectly, too). “I don’t mind one bit,” she laughs, digging into her warm, spiced breakfast. “This is breakfast!”

Beyond its delicious flavor, this recipe is a nutrition powerhouse. With high-protein ingredients like cottage cheese, eggs, and protein powder, Tonya’s mug cake supports muscle recovery and satiety, helping prevent the mid-morning cravings that can derail healthy eating plans.

Author:

Editorial Assistant

Mariam is an Editorial Assistant and writer at SheFinds, covering everything from style and beauty to health and wellness. Splitting her time between New York and Philadelphia, she brings a sharp eye for trends and a passion for storytelling to the digital space. With a strong editorial background, she’s always exploring the latest in fashion, skincare, and wellness. When she’s not writing or pitching, you’ll find her in the kitchen experimenting with new recipes or planning her next travel adventure. You can reach Mariam at mariam@shefinds.com.

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Grocery store aisle featuring sugar and artificial sweeteners.
Person enjoying a healthy lunch at a dining table.
Sipping spearmint tea for relaxation and digestion.
Various types of bread displayed on a wooden surface.
Fresh bakery items from Costco, including cakes and pastries.
Woman holding her head, feeling overwhelmed or stressed.
Woman experiencing joint pain, indicating health issues.
Vibrant assortment of groceries from Shutterstock image.
Popular fast food options from Dunkin', Chick-fil-A, and Starbucks.
Woman adding sugar to her aromatic cup of coffee.
Assorted bagels with blueberries and butter on a wooden board.
Comparing cooking spray and olive oil for healthy cooking.
Top view of Brazilian food dish with rice, beans, and chicken.
Checking time on a watch during breakfast.
Display of deli meats and sandwiches in a grocery store.
Cooked salmon served with rice, avocado, and greens.
Inside view of a Costco store showcasing various products.
Woman taking magnesium supplement for health benefits.
Selection of S'mores brownies and baked ricotta from Aldi.
Grilled chicken breast served with fries and mixed salad.