Apple Cider Pumpkin Muffins

I continue to try and find recipes or create adaptations to existing recipes using pumpkin puree.  I really like the sweetness it adds. With that said, it is very strong flavor.  So finding ways to make it an accent, use just a little, lets the pumpkin flavor shine and not overpower the recipe.  This recipe is adapted from a recipe designed for frying donuts.  We baked them to make them healthier and I do not think anything was lost with this change.  These apple cider pumpkin muffins need to be an annual addition to your recipe bank.

 

The idea for the recipe came from my daughter.  She was home for a few days during fall break from college.  She is the 4th generation, on my wife’s side, that has gone to the University of Michigan.  I have only known one fan of the University of Michigan that was a bigger fan than my daughter and that is my Father-in-Law.  However, I am beginning to think my daughter may be an even crazier fan than my Father-in-Law.  College sports are the best.  The excitement of the fans is genuine and the fans are rabid.

Ingredients (Adapted from Heather’s French Press):

• 1 cup of apple cider
• 4 cups of flour
• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1 cup of sugar
• 2 eggs
• 4 tbsp butter {melted}
• 1/2 cup of buttermilk
• 1 cup of pumpkin puree

Directions:

In a sauce pan, over medium heat, reduce the apple cider to 1/4 cup {this will take about 10 minutes}.  In a separate mixing bowl, combine the flour, spice, salt, baking powder, and baking soda.

Meanwhile, cream together the eggs, sugar, butter, and pumpkin.

Next, alternately, stir in the cider and the buttermilk with the flour until completely mixed.

Add, flour if the dough is too sticky or milk if the mix is dry.  Spray a muffin tin with cooking spray.  Then, dust the pan with cinnamon (be generous).  Also, sprinkle the cinnamon on top of the muffins before baking.

Pre-heat your oven to 350 degrees.   Bake the muffins for 12 – 14 minutes.  Prick with a toothpick which should come out clean.

As soon as they come out of the oven, sprinkle with cinnamon.  Enjoy!