Apple Cider Spice Muffins Recipe

If you’re craving a cozy, fall-inspired treat that fills your kitchen with the warm scents of cinnamon and fresh apples, look no further than these delightful Apple Cider Spice Muffins. These muffins capture the vibrant essence of apple cider combined with a symphony of spices, resulting in a moist, tender crumb bursting with flavor. Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or just because, Apple Cider Spice Muffins offer a wonderfully fresh twist on a classic favorite that will quickly become your go-to recipe this season.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Apple Cider Spice Muffins rely on simple, wholesome ingredients that each bring something special to the party. From the fresh apple cider that adds tangy sweetness to the shredded apple providing natural moisture and texture, every component plays a vital role in creating these irresistible muffins.

• 3/4 cup fresh apple cider (NOT apple cider vinegar): This infuses the muffins with authentic apple flavor and a subtle tang that brightens every bite.
• 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the muffins, giving structure and a tender crumb.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the muffins rise beautifully and become fluffy.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Adds a light lift and balances the acidity from the cider.
• 3/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and prevents the sweetness from becoming flat.
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Provides that signature warm spice essential to apple desserts.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice: Adds complexity with hints of cloves and nutmeg.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: Just a pinch to deepen the spice profile without overpowering.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Complements cinnamon perfectly with its sweet, nutty notes.
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil or melted coconut oil: Keeps the muffins moist and tender without heaviness.
• 1/2 cup light or dark brown sugar: Adds rich, caramel-like sweetness and depth.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Balances sweetness with a clean finish.
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature: Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce: Boosts moisture and apple flavor naturally.
• 1 and 1/2 cups peeled and shredded apple (about 1.5–2 apples): Adds tender fruitiness and texture throughout the muffins.
• 3/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional): Provides a nutty crunch that pairs beautifully with the apple spices.
• Topping mixture – 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 and 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter: Creates a sweet, slightly crunchy cinnamon-sugar crust on top.

How to Make Apple Cider Spice Muffins

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it to ensure easy removal. Having all your ingredients ready and measured helps keep the process smooth.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, and nutmeg. Combining these spices and leavening agents evenly at this stage guarantees every muffin will be perfectly spiced and rise just right.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat the eggs with both sugars until smooth. Stir in the vegetable or coconut oil, applesauce, and fresh apple cider, mixing until combined. This mixture forms the rich, flavorful base that’ll make your Apple Cider Spice Muffins bursting with moistness and warmth.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently until just incorporated (avoid overmixing to keep your muffins tender). Fold in the peeled and shredded apples and walnuts, if using, until evenly distributed.

Step 5: Fill and Top Muffin Tin

Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full. Mix the topping ingredients – granulated sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter – in a small bowl, then sprinkle it generously over each muffin. This topping will create a delightful sweet crust as they bake.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center of a muffin comes out clean. You’ll notice the muffins rising nicely with a golden-brown top that’s just begging to be devoured.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. These Apple Cider Spice Muffins are perfect when warm, but still delicious at room temperature.

How to Serve Apple Cider Spice Muffins

Garnishes

These muffins are lovely on their own, but a light swipe of butter or a drizzle of honey or maple syrup amps up their cozy feel. A dollop of cinnamon-spiced cream cheese frosting also transforms them into an indulgent treat perfect for brunch or a special occasion.

Side Dishes

Pair your Apple Cider Spice Muffins with a hot cup of chai tea, coffee, or even spiced apple cider for a harmonious flavor experience. For a fuller meal, serve alongside scrambled eggs or a fresh fruit salad to balance sweetness with savory and bright notes.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn these muffins into a charming gift by packaging them in a pretty box tied with twine and a cinnamon stick. For a brunch table, arrange muffins on a rustic wooden platter garnished with apple slices and whole cinnamon sticks for an inviting display everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Apple Cider Spice Muffins keep beautifully stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Wrapping them individually in plastic wrap helps retain moisture and flavor, making each muffin as fresh as the first bite.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these muffins later, wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. They freeze well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature when you’re ready to indulge.

Reheating

To revive the fresh-baked taste, warm muffins in the microwave for about 20 seconds or in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes. The topping will crisp up again, and the interior will be soft and comforting.

FAQs

Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider in Apple Cider Spice Muffins?

While apple juice is sweeter and lacks the depth of fresh apple cider, it can be used in a pinch. The flavor will be milder, so consider reducing added sugar slightly to avoid excessive sweetness.

Are these muffins gluten-free?

The recipe calls for all-purpose flour, so it’s not gluten-free as written. However, you can substitute with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend to make them safe for gluten-sensitive diets.

Can I omit the nuts?

Absolutely! The walnuts add a nice crunch but are entirely optional. Feel free to leave them out or swap for another nut or seed if you prefer.

How do I know when the muffins are done baking?

Insert a toothpick or skewer into the center of a muffin; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, they’re ready. The tops should be golden brown and firm to the touch.

What’s the best way to shred apples for this recipe?

Using a box grater or a food processor with a shredding attachment works best. Grated apples blend into the batter nicely and keep the muffins tender with little pockets of sweet apple morsels.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about Apple Cider Spice Muffins that feels like a warm hug on a chilly morning. This recipe is a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create pure comfort and joy. I encourage you to try making a batch and savor the cozy, spiced apple aroma filling your home—you might just find your new favorite muffin!

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