Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a medium saucepan, bring the apple cider to a boil over medium heat. Reduce it until it measures about 1/2 cup, roughly 10 minutes. Allow it to cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until evenly combined.
- In another bowl, mix the melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and the reduced apple cider. Stir in the diced apples to incorporate.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
- Fill each muffin cup about 2/3 full with batter.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- For the cinnamon sugar topping, in a small bowl, combine the 1/4 cup sugar and 1 tbsp cinnamon.
- Once baked, let the muffins cool for a few minutes, and then roll them in the cinnamon sugar before serving.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
These apple cider muffins shine on their own but can also be paired with a variety of accompaniments. Try serving them warm with a pat of butter, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an indulgent treat. They also pair beautifully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making the perfect start to your morning.
How to Store & Freeze
To keep your muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to enjoy them later, they freeze wonderfully! Just wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap, place them in a freezer-safe bag, and they’ll stay fresh for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature, or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for that freshly baked warmth.
Pro Chef Tips
- Use fresh apples for a burst of flavor. Honeycrisp or Granny Smith are excellent choices that maintain their texture.
- For an extra moist muffin, consider adding a splash of milk or yogurt to the batter.
- Don’t skip the cinnamon sugar topping! It gives the muffins that delightful crunch and sweetness that pairs perfectly with the soft interior.
Creative Twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are some variations to tailor these muffins to your taste:
- Add nuts: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
- Pumpkin spice twist: Substitute some of the cinnamon with pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal twist.
- Gluten-free version: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free alternative.
Common Questions
How long does it take to prepare apple cider muffins?
The entire process, from mixing ingredients to baking, takes about 30-40 minutes. Perfect for those busy mornings!
Can I use store-bought apple cider?
Absolutely! Store-bought cider works just as well as homemade in this recipe, ensuring you can whip these up anytime.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover muffins?
To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will bring back their moist texture!
If you’re looking for a warm, comforting treat perfect for any occasion, these apple cider muffins won’t disappoint. Happy baking!
