Mini Apple Cider Cakes (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Cake Base

01 - 1 1/2 cups apple cider
02 - 4 tablespoons salted butter, melted
03 - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
04 - 2 large eggs, at room temperature
05 - 1/3 cup apple butter
06 - 1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar
07 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
08 - 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
09 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
10 - 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
11 - 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
12 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

→ Cinnamon Sugar Coating

13 - 6 tablespoons salted butter
14 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
15 - 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
16 - 1/4 teaspoon cardamom

→ Optional Decorations

17 - 6 ounces chocolate, melted
18 - Cinnamon sticks

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Thoroughly grease 15-16 mini bundt pan or cupcake pan molds with butter.
02 - Bring the apple cider to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes until reduced to approximately 3/4 cup. Remove from heat and cool for 5 minutes.
03 - In a large mixing bowl, combine the reduced apple cider, melted butter, eggs, apple butter, vanilla, and brown sugar until well incorporated.
04 - Add flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
05 - Divide batter evenly among prepared pans, filling each cavity about 2/3 full. Bake for 12-13 minutes until tops are just set. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before inverting onto a cooling rack.
06 - For the coating, heat butter in a skillet over medium heat until it turns a deep golden color and develops a nutty aroma, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat immediately.
07 - In a shallow bowl, mix together granulated sugar, cinnamon, and cardamom.
08 - Brush each warm cake with browned butter, then roll generously in the cinnamon sugar mixture. If desired, decorate with melted chocolate and cinnamon sticks. Serve warm or at room temperature.

# Notes:

01 - These mini cakes are best enjoyed on the day they're made but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
02 - For a more intense apple flavor, use a high-quality apple cider.