Not Your Momma’s Cider

Directions:                    

1. In a medium bowl, combine hard cider and 4 cups apple cider.  
2. Pour into ice cube trays. Freeze overnight.
3. In a medium pot, combine remaining 4 cups apple cider, 2 cinnamon sticks and 8 sprigs of thyme. Bring mixture to a boil. Remove from heat, stir in rum.
4. Strain mixture into a medium bowl. 
5. Place mixture in refrigerator overnight to cool.
6. Divide ice cubes and liquid among 4 mugs.  Pierce apples with toothpicks, place on rims.  Garnish with remaining cinnamon sticks and thyme sprigs.

TIP: Juice a lemon over apples to prevent browning. This drink can also be served hot; remove steps 2 and 5 and serve immediately.


Recipe Courtesy of Chef Audrey, ALDI Test Kitchen