Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line it with paper liners. Ensuring the oven is properly preheated will give your muffins a beautiful rise.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. These dry ingredients form the base of your muffin and are responsible for the deliciously spiced flavor and tender crumb.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the apple cider, milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. This wet mixture will provide moisture and ensure the muffins are soft and fluffy. The apple cider adds a tangy sweetness, while the butter provides richness.

Step 4: Combine and Bake
Slowly stir the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the muffins tough. Divide the batter evenly into the muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. The muffins should be golden brown and spring back when touched lightly.

Step 5: Coat the Muffins
Once the muffins have cooled slightly but are still warm, prepare the coating. Melt ¼ cup of butter in a small bowl. In another bowl, mix the sugar and ground cinnamon. Dip each warm muffin into the melted butter, making sure to coat it completely. Then, roll the buttered muffin in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. The sweet coating adds an irresistible crunch and a layer of flavor that mimics a classic doughnut.