Easy Apple Cider Cupcakes Brown Sugar (Print Format)

Soft apple cider cupcakes topped with cinnamon-rich brown sugar buttercream—perfect for fall treats or festive gatherings.

# Ingredients:

→ Apple Cider Cupcakes

01 - 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 teaspoon baking powder
03 - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
04 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
05 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
06 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
07 - 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
08 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
09 - 3/4 cup granulated sugar
10 - 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
11 - 2 large eggs
12 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
13 - 1/2 cup apple cider
14 - 1/4 cup buttermilk

→ Brown Sugar Cinnamon Buttercream

15 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
16 - 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
17 - 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
18 - 3 to 4 cups powdered sugar
19 - 3 to 4 tablespoons heavy cream
20 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
21 - Pinch of salt

# Steps:

01 - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Set aside.
03 - In a large bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
04 - Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
05 - Alternate adding the dry ingredients with the apple cider and buttermilk, starting and ending with the dry mix. Stir until just combined.
06 - Divide the batter evenly among the liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
07 - Cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
08 - Beat softened butter and brown sugar until creamy. Add cinnamon and vanilla, then gradually mix in powdered sugar and heavy cream until desired consistency. Add a pinch of salt to taste.
09 - Frost the cooled cupcakes using a piping bag or spatula. Optionally, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar or drizzle caramel for added flair.

# Tips:

01 - Using fresh apple cider enhances flavor and makes the cupcakes stand out.