Description
Apple Cider Donut Muffins combine the rich flavors of apple cider, cinnamon, and nutmeg into a soft, moist muffin that’s perfect for fall. The muffins are spiced and sweet, with a hint of apple flavor that’s intensified by reducing the apple cider. They’re then dipped in melted butter and coated with cinnamon sugar, making each bite as satisfying as a freshly fried donut, minus the mess. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or enjoying a quiet morning with coffee, these muffins will surely become a seasonal favorite.
Ingredients
For the Muffins
1 cup apple cider (reduce to ½ cup — see below)
1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
1 tsp cinnamon
½ tsp nutmeg
¼ tsp cloves (optional)
¼ tsp salt
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
½ cup brown sugar, packed
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
½ cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tsp vinegar/lemon juice)
1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
½ cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp cinnamon
Instructions
1. Reduce the Apple Cider
In a small saucepan, simmer 1 cup apple cider over medium heat until it reduces to ½ cup (about 10 minutes).
Let it cool slightly — this gives that concentrated apple flavor. 🍎
2. Make the Batter
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line or grease a 12-cup muffin tin.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
In a large bowl, whisk melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until combined.
Add eggs, one at a time, then whisk in reduced cider, buttermilk, and vanilla.
Stir in dry ingredients until just combined (don’t overmix).
3. Bake
Divide batter evenly among muffin cups (about ⅔ full).
Bake 15–18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let cool for 5 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack.
4. Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
In a small bowl, mix sugar and cinnamon.
Brush or dip each warm muffin top in melted butter, then roll in the cinnamon sugar mixture until coated.
They’ll look and taste just like apple cider donuts — but easier and less messy!
Notes
For a cozy autumn twist, drizzle your apple cider donut muffins with a cinnamon glaze or dust them with powdered sugar before serving. Pair with a warm cup of apple cider, chai tea, or coffee for the perfect fall brunch!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast / Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 muffin
- Calories: 250
Keywords: Apple cider muffins, fall donut muffins, cinnamon sugar muffins, spiced apple muffins