A crisp fall day, complete with leaves crunching underfoot, calls for a special seasonal beverage. And this boozy, Iced Chai-der Latte is full of complexity. It feels familiar yet has an edge. Like wearing your favorite flannel paired with motorcycle boots. Whatever your attire, Iced Chai-der Lattes are perfect to serve at brunch with friends. They make a great alternative to the traditional “pumpkin spice of it all” that bombards us during autumn.
Our latte starts by pouring 2 oz. of Clarksburg Chai-der Hard Cider into a shaker with ice. You won’t find many beverages that are both comforting and refreshing, but Clarksburg Chai-der embodies both qualities. Chai-der is a unique blend of cinnamon, clove, and cardamom, warmed through with black tea and ginger, and rounded out with a bright snap of apple. Next, pour in 2 oz. of liquid chai tea latte mix, just to amp up the spice factor. You can also find chai tea latte mix in powder form. If you buy it in powder form, make it first, then add in 2 oz. of the resulting liquid.
Okay, now this is when things get exciting. Add 1.5 shots of spiced rum to your shaker. The spiced rum creates some depth of flavor and adds a bit of extra warmth. Now add 1 oz. of oat milk, or your preferred milk substitute. Oat milk has a slightly nutty character and gives the whole drink a smooth, velvety texture. Finish things off with ½ oz. of simple syrup. Now, shake it all up! And finally, strain over ice in a Collins glass.
Cheers to Chai-der! Go ahead … take a well-rounded, satisfying sip.