Millet and Apple Cider Muffins are a perfect way to enjoy the flavors of fall. These muffins combine the nutty taste of millet with the sweet and tangy flavor of apple cider, making them a delightful treat for breakfast or a snack. Let’s dive into this simple and delicious recipe!

Ingredients:

Dry Ingredients:

• 1 cup millet flour (you can use pearl millet or foxtail millet)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Wet Ingredients:

• 1 cup apple cider
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Add-ins:

• 1 cup diced apples (peeled and cored)
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• 2 tablespoons millet grains (for added texture, optional)

For the Topping:

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease the muffin cups.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the millet flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg.
3. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
   • In another bowl, whisk together the apple cider, unsweetened applesauce, vegetable oil, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.
   • Gently fold in the diced apples, chopped nuts (if using), and millet grains (if using).
5. Fill the Muffin Tin:
   • Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.
6. Prepare the Topping:
   • In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon.
   • Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the tops of the muffin batter.
7. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
   • Remove from the oven and let the muffins cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips and Variations:

• Different Millets: Substitute millet flour with other whole grain flours like oat flour or buckwheat flour for varied textures and flavors.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour to make the muffins gluten-free.
• Fruit Variations: Replace diced apples with other fruits like pears, peaches, or cranberries for a different twist.
• Spice Adjustments: Add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice for additional warmth and flavor.
• Health Boost: Include a handful of raisins or dried cranberries for extra sweetness and texture.

Enjoy these Millet and Apple Cider Muffins as a wholesome and delicious treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Their delightful combination of flavors and textures will make them a favorite in your recipe collection. Happy baking!