Fall mornings deserve a little something special, and these Apple Cider Donut Muffins are exactly that. Packed with cozy apple spice flavor, tender on the inside, and finished with a buttery cinnamon-sugar coating, they bring all the charm of a cider mill treat without needing to leave your kitchen.

With every bite, you’ll taste the warm notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and apple cider boiled down to its richest essence. These muffins are quick to mix up and bake beautifully, making them ideal for brunch spreads, lunchbox surprises, or an afternoon coffee companion.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cider Donut Muffins Recipe

These muffins deliver all the flavor of classic apple cider donuts but without the hassle of deep frying. They’re soft, moist, and just the right amount of sweet. The apple cider is reduced to concentrate its flavor, which deepens the overall taste. And the cinnamon-sugar topping? It gives the perfect texture contrast.

If you love seasonal bakes or need a crowd-pleasing treat for fall gatherings, this recipe is guaranteed to be a repeat favorite.

What Kind of Apple Cider Should I Use?

Go for a good-quality, unfiltered apple cider. Look for one with a deep amber color and no added sweeteners or preservatives for the best natural flavor. The recipe calls for reducing the cider to intensify the taste, so using a fresh, flavorful one makes a big difference.

Ingredients for the Apple Cider Donut Muffins

Name: Apple Cider Donut Muffins
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 38 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup reduced apple cider; 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 10 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened; 2/3 cup light brown sugar, packed; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup whole milk; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for coating); 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for coating)

The ingredient list is refreshingly simple, and each one plays a key role in building those classic fall flavors.

Apple cider – This is the heart of the muffins. Reducing it enhances the apple flavor.

All-purpose flour – Provides the base structure for the muffin crumb.

Baking powder & baking soda – Together, they ensure a light and fluffy rise.

Salt – Balances out the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.

Cinnamon and nutmeg – Essential for that warm, spiced donut taste.

Unsalted butter – Adds moisture and richness to the batter.

Brown sugar – Brings a molasses-like depth and keeps the crumb tender.

Eggs – Bind everything together and help with structure.

Vanilla extract – Rounds out the flavor with a subtle aromatic sweetness.

Whole milk – Keeps the muffins moist and soft.

Granulated sugar & cinnamon (for topping) – Gives the muffins their signature donut-style coating.

How To Make the Apple Cider Donut Muffins

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

Pour the apple cider into a small saucepan and simmer over medium heat until it reduces to about half a cup. This step takes around 15 to 20 minutes. Let it cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar together until fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in the vanilla and the cooled reduced cider.

Step 4: Combine and Mix

Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 5: Fill the Muffin Tin

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin pan with paper liners or grease well. Spoon the batter evenly into the cups, filling about 3/4 full.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Bake for 15 to 18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow muffins to cool for 5 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack.

Step 7: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar

Melt additional butter in a small bowl. In another bowl, mix granulated sugar and cinnamon. Dip each warm muffin top into the melted butter, then roll in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

Serving and Storing Apple Cider Donut Muffins

These muffins are best served warm or at room temperature. The buttery cinnamon-sugar topping is most aromatic and satisfying fresh from the oven. This recipe yields 12 muffins, perfect for sharing or savoring throughout the week.

To store, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for longer storage. Reheat briefly in the microwave to restore that cozy, just-baked taste.

What to Serve With Apple Cider Donut Muffins?

A Hot Cup of Coffee

The warmth of a bold brew pairs beautifully with the spiced sweetness.

Warm Apple Cider

Double down on the apple cider theme for an ultra-comforting combo.

Maple-Glazed Bacon

That salty-sweet bite contrasts perfectly with the soft muffin texture.

Greek Yogurt with Honey

A light, tangy balance that refreshes the palate.

Cinnamon-Swirled Cream Cheese

Spread on top for a rich, tangy addition.

Caramel Sauce Drizzle

Drizzle a little over the muffin for a dessert-style treat.

Fresh Fruit Salad

Adds a bright, juicy touch that complements the spice.

Want More Muffin Ideas with Cozy Vibes?

If you can’t get enough of these seasonal bakes, check out some of our other warm and comforting favorites:

One Bowl Banana Chocolate Muffins when you crave banana bread in muffin form.
Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta for a comforting dinner after your sweet muffin breakfast.
Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies if you love cinnamon-sugar anything.
Butter Pecan Pound Cake when you’re in the mood for a nutty, dense dessert.
Lemon Truffles Recipe for a zesty treat to balance the spice.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest breakfast or dessert board so you can make it anytime the craving hits.

And when you do make them, let me know how they turned out! Did you add a twist? Maybe swapped in apple butter or sprinkled on some chopped nuts? I’m all ears.

Explore beautifully curated comfort bakes and feel-good treats on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and find your next favorite bake!