Apple Cider Muffins with Cinnamon Sugar

There’s nothing like the smell of fall, and these Apple Cider Muffins bring that cozy autumn scent right into your kitchen. Bursting with warm cinnamon and rich apple cider, these muffins are fluffy, moist, and topped with a sweet cinnamon sugar crunch that’s irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a delightful breakfast treat or a cozy afternoon snack, this recipe will have you coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love These Muffins

1. Incredible Flavor – Infused with the tangy taste of apple cider, these muffins offer a taste of fall in every bite.
2. Cinnamon Sugar Crunch – The crispy cinnamon sugar topping adds the perfect sweet and spicy finish.
3. Moist and Tender – Apple cider and oil work together to create a beautifully soft texture.
4. Easy to Make – With basic ingredients and simple steps, these muffins are perfect for bakers of any skill level.

The Taste

Imagine biting into a warm, soft muffin filled with the sweet-tart flavor of apple cider and the warmth of cinnamon. Each bite finishes with a delightful sugary crunch on top—a perfect treat for the cooler months.

Benefits of These Muffins

• Simple Ingredients – Most of these ingredients are likely already in your pantry, so you can make these any time.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – These muffins stay fresh for days, making them ideal for meal prepping or quick snacks.
• Versatile – Great for breakfast, dessert, or paired with a cup of coffee or tea.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup apple cider
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping:

• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Muffin tin with paper liners
• Toothpick for testing doneness
• Brush for melted butter

Ingredient Substitutions

• Apple cider: If you don’t have apple cider, you can substitute apple juice, though the flavor will be less intense.
• Oil: Swap vegetable oil for melted butter or coconut oil for a richer flavor.
• Add-ins: For extra texture, try adding diced apples, raisins, or even nuts to the batter.

How to Make Apple Cider Muffins

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners. This will prevent sticking and ensure even baking.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.

3. Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the apple cider, oil, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and fully combined.

4. Combine the Mixtures

Gradually stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough muffins.

5. Fill the Muffin Cups

Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full.

6. Bake the Muffins

Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The tops should be lightly golden.

7. Add the Cinnamon Sugar Topping

While the muffins are still warm, brush the tops with melted butter. In a small bowl, mix together the ¼ cup sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon, then sprinkle generously over the muffins.

What to Serve with Apple Cider Muffins

• Pair these muffins with a hot cup of apple cider, tea, or coffee.
• For a breakfast spread, serve with yogurt or fresh fruit.
• Try them with a dollop of butter or honey for added richness.

Tips for Perfect Muffins

• Don’t overmix the batter—this ensures your muffins stay soft and tender.
• Fill muffin cups evenly to ensure even baking.
• Room temperature ingredients like eggs and apple cider will help the muffins rise better and mix smoothly.

Storage Instructions

• Room Temperature: Store the muffins in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze these muffins for up to 3 months. To enjoy later, thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?

Yes, you can substitute apple juice, though the flavor will be a bit milder compared to apple cider.

How can I make these muffins healthier?

You can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour, and swap the granulated sugar for maple syrup or honey for a more natural sweetener.

Can I add fruit or nuts to the batter?

Absolutely! Chopped apples, cranberries, or even walnuts would make great additions for added texture and flavor.

Conclusion

These Apple Cider Muffins with Cinnamon Sugar are the perfect way to celebrate the flavors of fall. Whether you’re baking them for a cozy weekend brunch or a sweet snack, they’re guaranteed to impress. The combination of tender apple cider-infused muffins with a crisp cinnamon sugar topping will quickly make these a go-to favorite. Try them out and let me know how they turn out!

Looking for more fall-inspired treats? You’ll love these:

• Pumpkin Pie Smoothie Bowl
• Pumpkin Spice Protein Bars
• Snickerdoodle Banana Bread

Don’t forget to share your creations with me on Pinterest—I can’t wait to see how your muffins turn out!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 210
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Protein: 3g
• Sugar: 14g

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