introduction
These Bakery Style Apple Cider Muffins are soft, spiced, and full of apple flavor. They bake up tall with a light crumb and a warm cinnamon note. If you enjoy fall baking, try apple cider donuts for another apple treat.
why make this recipe
Make this recipe when you want easy muffins that taste like a bakery. The apple cider adds real apple flavor and keeps the muffins moist. They work well for breakfast, snacks, or a simple dessert.
how to make Bakery Style Apple Cider Muffins
Follow the ingredients and directions below. The steps are simple and the batter comes together quickly. Use cooled apple cider if you heated it to reduce, or fresh cider straight from the fridge.
Ingredients :
2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg, 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 cup apple cider, 1/2 cup diced apples (optional)
Directions :
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners., 2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg., 3. In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy., 4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined., 5. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the apple cider, mixing just until combined., 6. Fold in the diced apples if using., 7. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups., 8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean., 9. Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
how to serve Bakery Style Apple Cider Muffins
Serve warm or at room temperature. Spread a little butter or cream cheese on top for extra richness. For a fall platter, pair the muffins with other treats like air fryer apple hand pies and hot cider.
how to store Bakery Style Apple Cider Muffins
Store cooled muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the muffins in a sealed bag for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven before serving.
tips to make Bakery Style Apple Cider Muffins
- Measure flour by spooning it into the cup and leveling with a knife.
- Do not overmix the batter; stop when dry ingredients are just mixed.
- Use room temperature butter and egg for even mixing.
- If muffins brown too fast, lower oven to 350°F and bake a few minutes longer.
- Dice apples small so they fold into the batter easily.
variation (if any)
- Add a streusel topping: mix 1/4 cup flour, 2 tablespoons sugar, 2 tablespoons butter, and 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon; sprinkle on top before baking.
- Swap half the all-purpose flour for whole wheat for a heartier muffin.
- Stir in 1/4 cup chopped nuts or raisins for extra texture.
FAQs
Q: Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?
A: Yes. Apple juice works but cider has a fuller apple taste.
Q: Do I need to peel the diced apples?
A: Peeling is optional. Leave the skin on for extra texture if you like.
Q: Can I make these into a loaf instead of muffins?
A: Yes. Bake in a greased loaf pan at 350°F for about 45-55 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
Q: Can I reduce the sugar?
A: You can lower sugar by 1/4 cup, but the muffins will be less sweet and slightly denser.
Q: Are these good cold or reheated?
A: They are good both ways. Warm them for 10-15 seconds in the microwave for a fresh-baked feel.
Conclusion
For another apple-cider muffin take on, see this recipe for extra spice and tips at Apple Cider Spice Muffins – Sally’s Baking.
Bakery Style Apple Cider Muffins
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the apple cider, mixing just until combined.
- Fold in the diced apples if using.
- Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.