Nothing captures the spirit of autumn quite like the warm, spiced aroma of Apple Cider Donut Muffins wafting through the kitchen. These soft, cake-like muffins mimic the nostalgic flavor of fresh cider donuts—without the need for frying. If you’re searching for the perfect addition to your collection of Fall Desserts, this recipe is a must-bake!
Why Apple Cider Donut Muffins Are a Fall Favorite
Apple cider donuts are a beloved seasonal treat at pumpkin patches and fall festivals across the U.S. These muffins recreate that same comforting flavor in a simpler, oven-baked form. Made with reduced apple cider, cozy spices, and a buttery cinnamon-sugar topping, they’re ideal for breakfast, snack time, or dessert.
Whether you’re hosting a fall brunch, need a quick bake-sale winner, or just want to cozy up with a hot cup of cider and a muffin, this recipe checks all the boxes.
Ingredients
To create the iconic apple cider donut flavor, it’s important to use high-quality apple cider—not juice. Reducing the cider intensifies its flavor and adds a delicious tangy-sweet richness.
For the Muffins:
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1 ½ cups apple cider (for reducing)
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 tsp baking powder
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½ tsp baking soda
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1 tsp ground cinnamon
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½ tsp ground nutmeg
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¼ tsp ground allspice
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¼ tsp salt
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½ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
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2 large eggs, room temperature
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½ cup packed light brown sugar
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¼ cup granulated sugar
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½ cup whole milk (or buttermilk)
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1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping:
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½ cup unsalted butter, melted
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½ cup granulated sugar
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1 tsp ground cinnamon
Required Kitchen Tools
You don’t need any fancy equipment to make these muffins, but having the following tools on hand will make the process smoother:
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12-cup muffin pan
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Paper liners (optional) or non-stick spray
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Medium saucepan (for reducing the cider)
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Mixing bowls (small, medium, and large)
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Whisk and silicone spatula
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Pastry brush (for applying melted butter)
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Wire cooling rack
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Reduce the Apple Cider
Start by pouring 1 ½ cups of apple cider into a medium saucepan. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat and cook until it reduces to about ½ cup, which may take 15–20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Once reduced, set aside to cool completely.
Pro Tip: You can make the cider reduction a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator.
2. Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin pan or line it with muffin liners.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together:
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2 cups flour
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1 tsp baking powder
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½ tsp baking soda
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1 tsp cinnamon
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½ tsp nutmeg
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¼ tsp allspice
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¼ tsp salt
Set this mixture aside.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk the following until smooth:
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½ cup melted butter
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½ cup packed brown sugar
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¼ cup granulated sugar
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2 eggs
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½ cup reduced apple cider
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½ cup milk
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1 tsp vanilla extract
Whisk until the mixture is creamy and well blended.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing—this helps keep the muffins soft and fluffy.
6. Bake the Muffins
Spoon the batter evenly into the muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full. Bake in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Apply the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping
Once the muffins are slightly cooled (but still warm), melt ½ cup butter in a small bowl.
In another bowl, mix together ½ cup granulated sugar and 1 tsp cinnamon.
Brush the tops of each muffin with melted butter, then roll or sprinkle the tops with the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated.
Enjoy warm for the best flavor experience!
Storage Tips
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Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Refrigerator: Extend shelf life to 1 week, but reheat in the microwave for best texture.
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Freezer: Freeze cooled, uncoated muffins for up to 2 months. Thaw and add the topping before serving.
Tips for Perfect Apple Cider Donut Muffins
Here are a few baking secrets to ensure your muffins taste just like the real deal:
1. Don’t Skip the Cider Reduction
Reducing the cider concentrates its flavor, making it the key to that signature apple taste. Don’t substitute with apple juice—it won’t deliver the same depth.
2. Use Fresh Spices
Old spices lose their potency. Make sure your cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice are fresh for maximum flavor.
3. Let Muffins Cool Slightly Before Topping
If muffins are too hot, the butter will soak in and make the sugar topping soggy. Slightly warm is ideal for a crisp, sugary coating.
4. Go for Buttermilk for Extra Moisture
Whole milk works just fine, but buttermilk adds a tangy note and helps keep the muffins ultra-moist and tender.
5. Add a Fall Twist
Stir in a handful of chopped apples or crushed pecans for added texture and seasonal flair.
Nutritional Information (Per Muffin – Approximate) Fall Desserts
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Calories: 285
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Total Fat: 14g
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Saturated Fat: 8g
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Cholesterol: 60mg
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Sodium: 180mg
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Total Carbohydrates: 36g
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Dietary Fiber: 1g
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Sugars: 19g
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Protein: 3g
Note: Nutritional values can vary depending on ingredient brands and substitutions.
Why This Recipe Belongs in Every Fall Dessert Collection
From the first bite, you’ll understand why these muffins are a standout among Fall Desserts. They offer all the richness and warmth of traditional cider donuts, minus the oil and mess of deep-frying. The cinnamon-sugar coating provides just the right crunch, and the tender interior makes every bite irresistible.
They’re easy enough for a weekday treat but special enough to serve at a fall party, Thanksgiving brunch, or Halloween gathering. Pair them with hot apple cider, a pumpkin spice latte, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting fall-inspired dessert.
Conclusion
If you’re curating your list of must-try Fall Desserts, these Apple Cider Donut Muffins deserve a top spot. Simple to make, bursting with warm spices, and coated in sweet cinnamon sugar, they deliver all the cozy vibes of fall in each bite.