What is it about Autumn that makes it so magical? Of course, every season has its own wild beauty, but people talk about fall with a giddiness and reverence that is unique to this particular time of year.

For many, it may be because Autumn signals a new year, a sloughing off of the old to make room for a fresh start. For Southerners, magic also lies in the irresistible cooling down and those first deep, sharp breaths since the arrival of July humidity. And certainly, what can compare with Autumn leaves as they ripen in hue and smell and paper themselves to the ground?

Of course, for me, the hallmark flavors of this season are its greatest joy. Knobbly local apples and persimmons and pumpkin, warming spices, baked and crocked and souped everything. Fall food reminds comfort and family, and these apple cider muffins fit oh so snugly into this category.

I’m taking creative license again with this post, as there are no apples or apple cider to be found. But there is apple cider vinegar, which adds the perfect hint of acidity to complement the sweet cinnamony-ness (you heard it here first).Traditional apple cider is super sweet and made with cane sugar, which I wanted to replace with a natural sugar like maple syrup. Plus, apple cider vinegar is fantastic for improving your digestion and gut health, alkalizing your blood, detoxifying your organs and even helping with weight loss.

These moist, tender muffins are everything wonderful about the season, and they fill your kitchen with the most magnificent scent as they bake. They’re also a great staple to have around for snacking and a fabulous vehicle for nut butters, jams, grass-fed butter OR more of my killer Honey Cinnamon Drizzle. This honey cinnamon delight is so delicious that I saved the leftovers and actually stirred it into oatmeal for the next few days.