Spiked Apple Cider Cocktail

It started pouring yesterday in Portland.

I mean truly dumping buckets.

The only real way to cope with the sogginess is to have a cocktail and enjoy it from inside a warm living room. So I skipped my gym class and did just that.

Although I adore margaritas, I typically don't enjoy sticky sweet cocktails. But this recipe for Spiked Apple Cider is a win. Whether you're looking for a cocktail to serve at Thanksgiving, or you just need a treat after a long day, you're going to love this drink.

It's the perfect combination of being really flavorful and interesting, without being overly sweet. It would be perfect as a pre-dinner cocktail or dessert. Either way, it's perfectly fall.

Spiked Apple Cider Cocktail

(adapted from Aaron McCargo's Food Network Recipe)

Serving size: one cocktail

Ingredients:

1 cup spiced apple cider

1 oz dark rum

1/2 oz cinnamon schnapps 

1 tsp fresh squeezed lemon juice

Cinnamon

Instructions:

Peel and chop an apple into small squares. Sprinkle with desired amount of cinnamon and toss until semi-coated. String several pieces onto toothpick or skewer. [Save remaining pieces for additional cocktails or for tomorrow morning's oatmeal!] Add liquid ingredients to cocktail shaker with ice. Shake, strain, and pour into glass. Top with apple garnish and enjoy.