That cider may need a little more aging. How long have you aged it? I understand it can take a few months to mellow out and get rid of that Rocket Fuel Alcohol taste and then the apple flavors develop and comes through.
This five gallon batch I am doing tomorrow I intend to let age about six months then bottle for carbonation for two weeks or so.
4 weeks.
It is now bottled and going to a dark shelf ‘till Christmas. This has been an interesting experience.