Enjoy these delightful Apple Cider Cupcakes with a creamy cider frosting. Perfect for autumn gatherings or a sweet treat any time.
Author:Ethan Hayes
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes
Total Time:40 minutes
Yield:12 cupcakes
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup apple cider
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup sour cream
For the Frosting:
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup apple cider
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
In a small saucepan, bring the apple cider to a boil and let it simmer until it reduces by half, about 10-15 minutes. Let it cool slightly.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract and the reduced apple cider.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full.
Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.
Let the cupcakes cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
While the cupcakes cool, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with the apple cider, until the frosting is smooth and spreadable. Stir in the vanilla extract and cinnamon, if using.
Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them generously.
Notes
For richer flavor, use a good quality apple cider.
Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for best results.
Do not overmix the batter to keep the cupcakes tender.
The reduced cider adds a concentrated apple flavor.
Adjust the amount of apple cider in the frosting for your desired consistency.