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Apple Cider Spice Muffins

Apple Cider Spice Muffins

Apple Cider Spice Muffins are a moist and tender fall favorite that combines the natural sweetness and tang of apple cider with warm cinnamon and nutmeg spices. Perfect for cozy mornings, snacks, or festive gatherings, these easy-to-make muffins deliver comforting, balanced flavors that celebrate the essence of autumn.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (or 1/2 cup vegetable oil)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup apple cider

Optional Add-ins and Variations

  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (nutty addition)
  • 1/2 cup diced apples or dried cranberries (fruit twist)
  • Gluten-free flour blend substitute (for gluten-free version)
  • Flax eggs and coconut oil (for vegan adaptation)
  • Cinnamon-spiced glaze or maple glaze (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and prepare your pan: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it well to prevent sticking, ensuring a smooth removal after baking.
  2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined to ensure spices and leavening agents are well distributed.
  3. Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs lightly, then add melted butter (or oil), vanilla extract, and apple cider, mixing until smooth and fully incorporated.
  4. Bring wet and dry together: Slowly add the wet ingredients into the bowl with dry ingredients, folding gently just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the muffins light and fluffy.
  5. Fill and bake: Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full to allow space for rising. Bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  6. Cool and enjoy: Allow muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely for best texture before enjoying.

Notes

  • Use fresh spices for the brightest, most intense flavor.
  • Measure flour correctly by spooning into the cup and leveling off to avoid dense muffins.
  • Don’t overmix the batter to keep muffins tender.
  • Check oven temperature with a thermometer to avoid underbaking or overbaking.
  • Add mix-ins like nuts or dried fruit only after batter is combined for even distribution.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cider muffins, fall baking, autumn spices, cinnamon muffins, easy muffins, moist muffins, gluten-free muffins, cozy treats