Apple Cider Muffins

These Apple Cider Muffins are the perfect treat for any occasion! With a delightful blend of fresh apple cider, applesauce, and shredded apples, each bite bursts with wholesome apple flavor. Their moist texture and warm spices make them an ideal breakfast or snack during the fall season or anytime you crave something comforting. Plus, they can be enjoyed on their own or dressed up with a cinnamon-sugar coating for an extra touch of sweetness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deep Apple Flavor: The combination of fresh apple cider, applesauce, and shredded apple ensures a rich apple taste in every muffin.
• Perfectly Moist Texture: Thanks to the triple dose of apple, these muffins remain moist and fluffy.
• Quick to Prepare: In just over an hour, you can whip up a batch of these delicious muffins to share with family and friends.
• Versatile Snack: Enjoy them at breakfast, as an afternoon treat, or even as a dessert.
• Customizable Add-ins: Feel free to add nuts or other spices to suit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience seamless, gather your tools before starting. This will help streamline the process and ensure you have everything you need on hand.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Muffin pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Small saucepan
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin pan: Ensures even baking and helps create perfectly shaped muffins.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining wet and dry ingredients without spills.
• Whisk: Helps incorporate air into the batter for fluffier muffins.

Ingredients

These apple cider spice muffins have deep apple flavor and a moist texture thanks to a triple-dose of pure apple: apple cider, applesauce, and shredded apple. Like fall-favorite apple cider donuts, in muffin form! Be sure to use fresh apple cider, not hard cider and not apple cider vinegar.

For the Muffins

• 3/4 cup (180g/ml) fresh apple cider (NOT apple cider vinegar)
• 1 and 3/4 cups (219g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup (113g/120ml) vegetable oil or melted coconut oil
• 1/2 cup (100g) light or dark brown sugar
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsweetened applesauce
• 1 and 1/2 cups (210g) peeled and shredded apple (about 1.5–2 apples)
• 3/4 cup (90g) chopped walnuts (optional)

For the Topping

• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 2 Tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, melted

How to Make Apple Cider Muffins

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

In a small saucepan, bring the apple cider to a simmer over medium heat. Simmer for about 20 minutes until it reduces to 1/4 cup (60g/ml), stirring occasionally. It should appear darker but not necessarily thicker. Once done, pour it into a heat-safe bowl or measuring cup to cool.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Prepare a 12-count muffin pan by spraying it with nonstick spray or lining it with muffin liners.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together:
* All-purpose flour
* Baking powder
* Baking soda
* Salt
* Ground cinnamon
* Ground allspice
* Ground cloves
* Ground nutmeg

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another medium bowl, whisk together:
* Vegetable oil
* Brown sugar
* Granulated sugar
* Eggs
* Applesauce
* Reduced apple cider

Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in:
* Shredded apple
* Chopped walnuts (if using)

Step 5: Fill Muffin Liners

Divide the batter evenly among the muffin liners, filling them all the way up to the top.

Step 6: Bake the Muffins

Bake at 425°F for 5 minutes. Then reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (177°C) and continue baking for another 15–16 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 7: Add Cinnamon-Sugar Coating

While muffins are cooling slightly on a rack for about 10 minutes, mix together:
* Sugar
* Ground cinnamon

Lightly brush the top of each warm muffin with melted butter before dipping it into the cinnamon-sugar mixture. You may choose to roll each muffin completely in this mixture for full coverage.

Step 8: Store Your Muffins

Store any remaining muffins lightly covered at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate them for up to one week. Keep in mind that they will become slightly sticky by day two due to moisture from the sugared coating.

How to Serve Apple Cider Muffins

Apple cider muffins are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you serve them for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or at a gathering, these muffins will surely impress.

With a Warm Beverage

• Coffee: Pair your muffins with a hot cup of coffee for a comforting breakfast.
• Tea: A soothing herbal tea complements the warm spices in the muffins beautifully.
• Hot Chocolate: Enjoy these muffins with rich hot chocolate for a sweet, indulgent treat.

With Spreads

• Butter: Spread a thin layer of butter on warm muffins for extra richness.
• Cream Cheese: A dollop of cream cheese adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor that balances the sweetness.
• Nut Butter: Almond or peanut butter enhances the nutty notes in the muffins and adds protein.

As Part of a Brunch Spread

• Fruit Salad: Serve alongside fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast to the warm muffins.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a balanced brunch option that complements the sweetness of the muffins.

How to Perfect Apple Cider Muffins

To achieve perfectly moist and flavorful apple cider muffins, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh apple cider and ripe apples will enhance the flavor significantly.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently mix the batter until just combined to keep your muffins tender and airy.
• Check Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is calibrated correctly; uneven baking can affect texture.
• Cool Properly: Allow muffins to cool in the pan before transferring them to prevent sogginess.
• Store Correctly: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Muffins

Apple cider muffins can shine even more when served with complementary side dishes. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Greek Yogurt: Creamy Greek yogurt adds protein and pairs well with the sweet flavors of the muffin.
2. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses provides a savory contrast that enhances the muffin experience.
3. Granola: Crunchy granola offers texture and can be mixed with yogurt for a delightful breakfast bowl.
4. Chia Pudding: This healthy option combines well with the flavors of apple and spice while providing fiber.
5. Mixed Nuts: A bowl of mixed nuts adds crunch and healthy fats that balance out the sweetness of the muffins.
6. Apple Slices with Cinnamon Sugar: Fresh apple slices dusted with cinnamon sugar echo the muffin’s flavors perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Apple Cider Muffins turn out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Not using fresh apple cider: Always opt for fresh apple cider instead of hard cider or vinegar. Fresh cider enhances the muffin’s flavor.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough muffins instead of tender ones.
• Skipping the reduced apple cider: Reducing the apple cider concentrates its flavor. Don’t skip this step for a deeper taste.
• Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Using room temperature eggs and other ingredients helps create a better texture. Take them out in advance!
• Baking at incorrect temperatures: Start with a high temperature, then lower it. This method gives your muffins that perfect dome shape.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store muffins in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Apple Cider Muffins

• Allow muffins to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apple Cider Muffins

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and warm muffins for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat muffins individually on medium power for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place muffins in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Apple Cider Muffins.

Can I substitute the flour for a gluten-free option?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure it contains xanthan gum for proper texture.

How do I ensure my Apple Cider Muffins are moist?

Using fresh apple cider, applesauce, and shredded apples helps keep your muffins moist and flavorful.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans are great additions. You can also try adding raisins or chocolate chips for variety.

How do I know when my Apple Cider Muffins are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, they are ready to be removed from the oven.

Final Thoughts

These Apple Cider Muffins are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize them with your favorite mix-ins like nuts or dried fruits. Enjoy baking these delightful treats!