01 - Preheat oven to 400°F and grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line with muffin papers.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, fine sea salt, and granulated sugar.
03 - Add cold, cubed butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to incorporate until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
04 - In a separate bowl, whisk together cold buttermilk, lightly beaten egg, bourbon, and pure maple syrup.
05 - Pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients and mix gently until just combined, taking care not to overmix.
06 - Gently fold in the finely diced apple and shredded sharp cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.
07 - Portion batter evenly into muffin cups using a cookie scoop or spoon. Insert a wooden lollipop stick into the center of each muffin, pushing halfway through.
08 - Bake for 16 to 18 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
09 - While baking, stir together maple syrup, bourbon, and a pinch of sea salt to make the glaze.
10 - Allow muffin pops to cool slightly before drizzling or brushing with maple bourbon glaze. Serve warm or at room temperature.