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As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, autumn invites us to embrace its warmth and comfort. This season is a celebration of rich flavors, from the sweet crunch of apples to the spiced aromas of cinnamon and nutmeg. One delightful way to capture the essence of autumn is through baking, and what better treat to indulge in than Autumn Bliss Apple Cider Cupcakes? These enchanting cupcakes encapsulate the spirit of fall, making them perfect for gatherings, holiday celebrations, or a cozy evening at home with loved ones.

Apple Cider Cupcakes

Experience the cozy flavors of fall with these Autumn Bliss Apple Cider Cupcakes. Perfectly moist and infused with apple cider, cinnamon, and nutmeg, they capture the essence of the season. Easy to make, these delightful treats feature diced apples for added texture and are topped with creamy apple cider frosting. Ideal for gatherings or a quiet evening at home, these cupcakes promise to bring warmth and joy to your autumn celebrations. Embrace the spirit of fall baking!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup apple cider

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup diced apples (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)

For the Apple Cider Frosting:

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

4 cups powdered sugar

3-4 tablespoons apple cider

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

A pinch of cinnamon for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners.

    Reduce the Apple Cider: In a small saucepan over medium heat, bring 1 cup of apple cider to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 10-15 minutes or until it has reduced to about 1/3 cup. Let it cool slightly.

      Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and the reduced apple cider.

        Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

          Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined. Don't overmix! Fold in the diced apples.

            Fill the Cupcake Liners: Evenly distribute the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.

              Bake the Cupcakes: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove the cupcakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

                Prepare the Frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until combined. Add 3 tablespoons of apple cider and the vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. If the frosting is too thick, add an additional tablespoon of apple cider.

                  Frost the Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, frost them generously with the apple cider frosting. Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon on the top of each cupcake for an extra touch.

                    Serve and Enjoy: Serve these delightful cupcakes at your next gathering, or enjoy them as a cozy treat at home with a cup of tea or cider!

                      Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 12 cupcakes