Easy Apple Cider Honey Muffins

 

1 1/2 C. apple cider

1 stick (1/2 C.) salted butter, melted

2 large eggs, at room temperature

1/2 C. honey, preferably raw

1/3 C. apple butter

1/2 C. packed dark brown sugar

2 tsp. vanilla extract

2 C. all-purpose flour

1 T. baking powder

2 tsp. ground cinnamon

1/2 tsp. ground nutmeg

1/4 tsp. ground all-spice

1/4 tsp. ground cloves

1 tsp. salt

1 honeycrisp apple, finely chopped (about 1/2 C.)

1/2 C. toasted chopped pecans or chocolate chips (optional)

4 T. (1/2 stick) salted butter, melted

2 tsp. cinnamon

1/2 C. granulated sugar

 

Preheat the oven to 350° F. Line 12-14 muffin tins with paper liners. Bring the apple cider to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat. Simmer 10-15 minutes or until reduced to about 1 C. Remove from the heat. Let cool. In a bowl, stir together the boiled cider, melted/browned butter, eggs, honey, apple butter, brown sugar, and vanilla until combined. Add the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, all-spice, cloves, and salt, mix until just combined. Stir in the apples. If desired, add the nuts/chocolate. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake 25-30 minutes, until just set. Mix the cinnamon and sugar. Brush the tops of each muffin with melted butter and dip each in the cinnamon sugar. Enjoy!