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As the leaves begin to change and a crisp chill fills the air, many of us seek the comfort of cozy desserts that evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia. There’s something magical about the combination of sweet, spiced flavors that transport us back to cherished moments spent with loved ones—perhaps gathered around a kitchen table or enjoying a festive gathering. Among the plethora of delightful options, Cozy Apple Cider Cupcakes with Cinnamon Frosting stand out, offering the perfect blend of seasonal flavors that celebrate the essence of fall.

Apple Cider Cupcakes with Cinnamon Frosting

Fall in love with these Cozy Apple Cider Cupcakes topped with luscious Cinnamon Frosting! Perfectly balancing sweet apple cider and warm cinnamon, these moist cupcakes evoke the essence of autumn with every bite. Ideal for gatherings or quiet evenings at home, the delightful aroma and visual appeal will charm everyone. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these cupcakes are a must-try for cozy dessert lovers seeking seasonal indulgence.
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Ingredients
  

For the Apple Cider Cupcakes:

1 cup apple cider

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened at room temperature

1 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs, at room temperature

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Cinnamon Frosting:

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened at room temperature

2 cups powdered sugar

2 tablespoons heavy cream (or milk if preferred)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions
 

Prepare the Oven and Muffin Tin: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a standard muffin tin with 12 cupcake liners to ensure easy removal after baking.

    Reduce the Apple Cider: In a small saucepan over medium heat, pour in the apple cider and bring it to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and reduces to approximately 1/2 cup (this should take about 10-15 minutes). Set the reduced cider aside to cool completely.

      Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Beat them together using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. Gradually add the eggs one at a time, ensuring that each is thoroughly mixed in before adding the next. Pour in the vanilla extract and the cooled reduced apple cider, stirring until fully incorporated.

        Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt until well blended.

          Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix—some lumps are not only acceptable but desired.

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

              Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cupcakes to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

                Prepare the Cinnamon Frosting: While the cupcakes are cooling, beat the softened butter in a medium bowl until it is smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar while mixing on low speed, alternating with the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Beat until the frosting is fluffy and well combined. Mix in the ground cinnamon until evenly incorporated.

                  Frost the Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes have cooled completely, use a piping bag with your favorite tip or a spatula to generously frost each cupcake with the cinnamon frosting.

                    Serve and Enjoy: For an added festive touch, sprinkle a little extra ground cinnamon on top or place a thin apple slice atop each cupcake. Enjoy your cozy treats warm or at room temperature!

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                        20 minutes | 40 minutes | 12 servings