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Easy Apple Cider Donut Muffins

apple cider donut muffins - featured image

These muffins capture the nostalgic flavor of apple cider donuts with a tender crumb, bright apple cider notes, and a cinnamon sugar coating. Perfect for cozy fall mornings or gatherings, they are quick, easy, and delicious without the mess of frying.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
  • 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) apple cider, reduced slightly
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) milk, whole or 2%
  • Cinnamon sugar topping:
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • Optional: a pinch of ground cloves or allspice

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease your muffin tin or line with paper liners.
  2. Pour 1/2 cup (120ml) apple cider into a small saucepan over medium heat and simmer until reduced by about half, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk melted butter and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating lightly after each. Stir in reduced apple cider, vanilla extract, and milk.
  5. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and gently fold with a spatula until just combined; lumps are okay.
  6. Divide batter evenly among 12 muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
  7. Bake for 18-22 minutes, checking at 18 minutes with a toothpick; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
  8. While baking, mix granulated sugar and cinnamon for the topping.
  9. When muffins are out, let cool 5 minutes, then brush with melted butter (optional) and roll or sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
  10. Transfer muffins to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Do not overmix the batter to avoid tough muffins. Reducing the apple cider concentrates flavor and prevents flat muffins. Brush warm muffins with melted butter before coating with cinnamon sugar for best adherence and flavor. Fresh ground cinnamon is preferred for vibrant spice. Muffins can be stored at room temperature for 2 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cider, donut muffins, fall baking, cinnamon sugar, easy muffins, quick breakfast, cozy snack