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
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1 cup apple cider (reduce to ½ cup — see below)
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1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
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1 ½ tsp baking powder
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½ tsp baking soda
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1 tsp cinnamon
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½ tsp nutmeg
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¼ tsp cloves (optional)
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¼ tsp salt
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½ cup unsalted butter, melted
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½ cup brown sugar, packed
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¼ cup granulated sugar
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2 large eggs
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½ cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tsp vinegar/lemon juice)
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1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating
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¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
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½ cup granulated sugar
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1 tbsp cinnamon
Instructions
1. Reduce the Apple Cider
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In a small saucepan, simmer 1 cup apple cider over medium heat until it reduces to ½ cup (about 10 minutes).
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Let it cool slightly — this gives that concentrated apple flavor. 🍎
2. Make the Batter
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line or grease a 12-cup muffin tin.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
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In a large bowl, whisk melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until combined.
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Add eggs, one at a time, then whisk in reduced cider, buttermilk, and vanilla.
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Stir in dry ingredients until just combined (don’t overmix).
3. Bake
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Divide batter evenly among muffin cups (about ⅔ full).
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Bake 15–18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Let cool for 5 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack.
4. Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
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In a small bowl, mix sugar and cinnamon.
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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