Description
Craving the flavor of a fall donut without the deep frying? These *Apple Cider Donut Muffins* are the answer. Moist, fluffy, and coated in cinnamon sugar, they capture the nostalgic magic of a cider mill treat—without the oil. Perfect for cozy mornings, quick breakfasts, or indulgent snacks, this easy recipe packs all the warmth of autumn into muffin form. The reduced apple cider adds deep flavor, while the cinnamon sugar coating brings that donut-shop finish. Ideal for weekend brunch, holiday breakfast ideas, or healthy snack alternatives. This is one of those food ideas that will be on repeat all season long.
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups apple cider
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
3/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice (optional)
2 large eggs, room temperature
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
1/2 cup buttermilk, room temperature
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Instructions
1. Pour apple cider into a small saucepan and simmer over medium heat until reduced to about 1/2 cup (10–15 minutes). Let cool.
2. Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a 12-cup muffin pan with liners or lightly grease.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, both sugars, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, melted butter, buttermilk, reduced cider, and vanilla extract.
5. Fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients gently. Don’t overmix.
6. Fill muffin cups about 3/4 full with batter.
7. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Let muffins cool in pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
9. While still warm, brush muffins with melted butter and roll or sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
Notes
Reducing the apple cider is essential for bold apple flavor—don’t skip this step.
Muffins taste best warm, but you can refresh them by reheating and reapplying cinnamon sugar.
For extra apple flair, add finely chopped apple or swirl in a spoonful of apple butter.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 muffin
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: apple cider donut muffins, easy muffin recipe, fall breakfast ideas