Name: Apple Cider Muffins
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 cups Special K cereal (or crisp rice flake cereal); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup light corn syrup; 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional); 1/4 tsp salt (optional); 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1 cup butterscotch chips

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These muffins are bursting with real apple flavor thanks to reduced apple cider, which intensifies the natural sweetness and adds moisture. They’re lightly spiced, tender on the inside, and often finished with a cinnamon-sugar coating that gives each bite a little crunch. They’re easy to make, full of autumnal charm, and make your kitchen smell incredible while baking.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Apple cider (not apple juice)
All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Baking soda
Ground cinnamon
Ground nutmeg
Salt
Unsalted butter (melted)
Brown sugar
Granulated sugar
Large eggs
Vanilla extract
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Optional: diced apples, cinnamon-sugar for topping

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it well.
In a small saucepan, simmer the apple cider over medium heat until reduced to about half, concentrating the flavor. Let cool slightly.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
In another bowl, whisk the melted butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar until combined.
Add eggs, one at a time, then mix in the vanilla, sour cream (or yogurt), and cooled reduced cider.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix just until combined. Don’t overmix.
Spoon the batter evenly into the muffin cups, filling them about ¾ full.
Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Optional: While still warm, brush muffins with melted butter and dip the tops in cinnamon sugar for a classic finish.
Let cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12 standard muffins.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15–18 minutes
Cooling Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 45–50 minutes

Variations

Add chopped apples: Fold in ½ to 1 cup of finely diced fresh apples for added texture.
Make them gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
Add nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans add crunch and flavor.
Try a streusel topping: Mix flour, brown sugar, and butter for a crumbly topping before baking.
Use whole wheat flour: Replace half the all-purpose flour for a slightly heartier muffin.

Storage/Reheating

Store cooled muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigerate for up to 5 days if needed.
To freeze, wrap individually and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheat muffins in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or in the oven at 300°F for 5–7 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?

Apple juice lacks the depth of flavor that cider provides, so it’s not recommended for this recipe.

Why reduce the apple cider?

Reducing concentrates the flavor and removes excess moisture, resulting in a more flavorful muffin.

Can I use oil instead of butter?

Yes, you can substitute melted coconut or vegetable oil, though the flavor and texture will change slightly.

How do I know when the muffins are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin—if it comes out clean, they’re done baking.

Can I make mini muffins?

Yes, reduce the baking time to 10–12 minutes and check for doneness with a toothpick.

What’s the best way to get a high muffin dome?

Start with a hotter oven (around 400°F) for the first 5 minutes, then reduce to 375°F to finish baking.

Can I skip the cinnamon-sugar topping?

Yes, they’re delicious without it, but the topping adds a lovely texture and sweetness.

Do I need to peel the apples if adding them?

Peeling is optional, but peeled apples blend more smoothly into the muffin texture.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free yogurt and plant-based butter alternatives.

How can I make them more moist?

Don’t overbake, and make sure to use full-fat sour cream or yogurt to lock in moisture.

Conclusion

Apple Cider Muffins are a warm, spiced, and flavorful way to celebrate the flavors of fall. With their soft, moist crumb and bold apple-cinnamon taste, these muffins are a hit whether you serve them for breakfast, snack, or dessert. Easy to make and endlessly adaptable, they’re bound to become a seasonal favorite.