Apple Cider Cupcakes

As autumn sweeps in with its vibrant palette of reds, oranges, and yellows, there’s an undeniable shift in our culinary cravings. The cozy, warm flavors of fall beckon us to the kitchen, where we can create heartwarming treats that celebrate the season. One standout recipe that captures the essence of autumn is the delightful Apple Cider Cupcake. These charming confections meld the rich, aromatic spices of cinnamon and nutmeg with the refreshing sweetness of apple cider, creating a dessert that is both nostalgic and innovative.

Dive into the flavors of fall with scrumptious Apple Cider Cupcakes! These delightful treats are infused with the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg, complemented by sweet apple cider, creating a moist and fluffy texture that everyone will adore. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy afternoon at home, this recipe guides you through selecting key ingredients, mixing techniques, and frosting tips, allowing you to bring a taste of autumn into your kitchen. Enjoy creating a seasonal masterpiece that will delight friends and family alike!

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Ingredients

For the Cupcakes:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

1 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

¾ cup apple cider (preferably unfiltered)

1 cup peeled and finely diced apples (about 1 large apple)

For the Apple Cider Frosting:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

3-4 cups powdered sugar (adjust to taste)

2 tablespoons apple cider

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

A pinch of salt

Optional: Caramel drizzle and thinly sliced apples for garnish

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a standard cupcake pan by lining it with paper cupcake liners.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Whisk these ingredients together until they are completely blended. Set the bowl aside.

Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer or a whisk until the mixture becomes light and fluffy—this should take about 2 to 3 minutes.

Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, beating thoroughly after each addition. Then mix in the vanilla extract until everything is just combined.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the apple cider. Start with about a third of the flour mixture, and mix until just combined. Follow with half the apple cider, mix until combined, and repeat, ending with the flour mixture. Gently fold in the finely diced apples until evenly distributed.

Fill Cupcake Liners: Scoop the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each liner about two-thirds full to allow space for rising.

Bake: Place the cupcake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center of a cupcake comes out clean. Remove the cupcakes from the oven, allowing them to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the Frosting: While the cupcakes are cooling, you can make the apple cider frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until it becomes creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, then mix in the apple cider, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Blend until the frosting is smooth and fluffy. If the frosting is too runny, add more powdered sugar; if it’s too thick, incorporate a little more cider.

Frost the Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are completely cool, use a piping bag or a knife to generously frost each cupcake with the apple cider frosting.

Garnish (Optional): For an appealing finish, drizzle caramel sauce over the frosted cupcakes and top each with a thin slice of apple for a fresh touch.

Serve and Enjoy: These delightful Apple Cider Cupcakes are perfect for sharing at gatherings or savoring as a cozy treat during the fall season.

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Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 12 cupcakes