Apple cider is a delicious beverage all on its own. Just like many other alcoholic beverages, apple cider can be used in various recipes. Both savoury and sweet dishes can benefit from the delicious flavour of apple cider. If you want to try a sweet treat, these scrumptious cupcakes are an excellent starting point.
For the cupcakes, you will need:

  • 3 cups apple cider
  • ¾ cup butter
  • 1 cup sugar (granulated)
  • ¾ cup sugar (raw)
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 cups flour
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/8 tsp cloves (ground)
  • A pinch of salt

For the frosting, you will need:

  • 3 cups confectioner’s sugar
  • 1 cup butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 – 2 Tbsp whipping cream

Method:

  • To make the cupcakes, pour the apple cider into a saucepan and bring to a boil on medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and allow to simmer until the amount of cider to reduce to 1 ½ cups.
  • Remove the reduced cider from the stove and allow to cool to room temperature. If need be, you can place the cider in the fridge or a cold water bath. Just be sure not to let any water drip into the saucepan.
  • Cream the butter and both types of sugar using an electric mixer. Beat the mixture until it’s fluffy.
  • Add the eggs to the mixture one at a time and continue beating until completely mixed.
  • Sift the flour, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt into a large bowl.
  • Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet mixture and mix until completely blended together.
  • Slowly stir in the apple cider using a wooden spoon until completely mixed. Take care not to over mix or your cupcakes won’t be as light and fluffy as they should be.
  • Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and pour into your lined cupcake pan. This recipe makes 18 cupcakes. Make sure that you divide the mixture evenly.
  • Bake on the middle rack for approximately 25 minutes or until your toothpick test comes out clean.
  • Allow to cool before removing and cooling completely on a wire rack.
  • While cooling, you can prepare your frosting! Place your butter into a mixing bowl and add the sugar. Beat on low until the sugar and butter are completely blended.
  • Add vanilla and beat until combined
  • Add the cream and beat until you end up with a smooth and creamy frosting.
  • Store the frosting in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it. Make sure that your cupcakes are completely cooled before you frost them.