It’s an iconic adult treat as tree leaves turn + apples are picked fresh from local orchards. 

Spiced with fall flavors like cloves and cinnamon, spiked with rum (or bourbon if you prefer)—and served in hollowed apples, it’s a festive beverage + conversation piece. 

Omit the rum (or bourbon) and it’s a fun option for the kiddos, too. 

Cheers!

INGREDIENTS

• 8 cups apple cider
• ¼ cup packed brown sugar
• 4 cinnamon sticks 
• 1 teaspoon whole allspice
• 1 teaspoon whole cloves
• 1 cup rum, any kind
• For garnish: star anise, cinnamon stick

DIRECTIONS

1. Add spices to the bottom of pot. Toast over medium heat for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant. 
2. Turn heat to low. Pour in apple cider and brown sugar. Once sugar is dissolved, lower heat to less than a simmer, just barely bubbling. Allow to warm for 30 minutes. 
3. Next, strain the cider to remove spices and particulates that arose while heated. Use a fine mesh sieve or strainer. 
4. Pour rum into the cider. Ladle into individual hollowed apples. 
5. Garnish with star anise and cinnamon stick, if desired. 
6. Say a cheers to your InSuesShoes friends, then enjoy!

Tips for Making Apple Cups

• Choose large apples
• Cut off top of apples
• Use paring knife to outline the top of your ‘cup,’ leaving a ¼-inch rim around the top
• Using a spoon or melon baller, scoop out inside of apple. Be careful to not poke through the sides or bottom of apple (or your delish bev will leak!)
• Once hollowed, brush some lemon juice on the inside of your ‘cups’ to prevent browning