How to Make Apple Pie Moonshine
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🥃 How to Make Apple Pie Moonshine (That’ll Warm You Right Up!)
There’s something irresistibly nostalgic about the warm, spiced aroma of fresh-baked apple pie—and now, imagine capturing that flavor in a jar of smooth, boozy moonshine. 🍏🔥
Apple Pie Moonshine is a homemade drink that’s equal parts comfort and kick, offering a unique fusion of apple cider, cinnamon, and spirits that will make any gathering feel like a cozy autumn evening—no matter the season.
But before you break out the Mason jars, let’s cover everything you need to know: the how, the why, and the what ifs—plus a few tricks to make your moonshine the star of any event.
🍎 What Is Apple Pie Moonshine?
Despite the name, it doesn’t involve any actual moonshining (unless you’re distilling your own alcohol—more on that in the legal section 👇). This modern version is typically a blend of:
- Apple cider
- Apple juice
- Sugar and spices
- High-proof alcohol (like Everclear or vodka)
It’s sweet, spicy, smooth, and dangerously drinkable. 😅
🔥 How to Make Apple Pie Moonshine at Home
Here’s a simple, flexible recipe that you can tweak to your taste.
📝 Ingredients:
- 1 gallon apple cider
- 1 gallon apple juice
- 1.5 to 2 cups brown sugar (adjust for sweetness)
- 1.5 to 2 cups white sugar
- 8 cinnamon sticks
- 1 whole nutmeg (optional)
- 1 bottle (750ml) 190-proof Everclear or substitute vodka/rum if unavailable
🛑 Important: Only use high-proof grain alcohol if it’s legal in your area! See the legal disclaimer below.
👨🍳 Instructions:
- Simmer the base
In a large stockpot, combine apple cider, apple juice, sugars, and spices.
Bring to a low simmer, stirring occasionally until all sugar is dissolved (about 30 minutes). Do not boil. - Cool completely
Once the mixture is rich and aromatic, remove from heat and let it cool completely. This is crucial—adding alcohol to hot liquid will cause evaporation and flavor loss. - Add the alcohol
Stir in Everclear (or your alcohol of choice). Taste and adjust spice or sweetness if needed. - Bottle it up
Pour into sterilized Mason jars or bottles. Add a cinnamon stick to each jar for flavor and flair. - Let it mellow
For best results, let your moonshine sit for 1–2 weeks in a cool, dark place. The flavors will deepen and smooth out over time.
🧐 Why Make Apple Pie Moonshine?
🍂 Because it’s not just a drink—it’s an experience. Here’s why people love it:
- DIY charm: Handmade drinks make amazing gifts!
- Customizable: Adjust sweetness, spice, or strength.
- Crowd-pleaser: Tastes like pie, drinks like a cocktail.
- Shelf-stable: If stored properly, it can last up to a year.
💡 Tips to Make It Stand Out
✅ Label creatively: Add rustic tags or printables. Call it “Grandpa’s Liquid Gold” or “Forbidden Apple Juice.”
✅ Use organic cider: Better flavor, fewer preservatives.
✅ Strain if needed: For a crystal-clear drink, strain through cheesecloth before bottling.
✅ Test strength: Start with a small glass—it’s smooth but potent!
✅ Serve chilled or hot: It’s amazing warmed in a mug on a cold night ☕.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is this real moonshine?
A: Technically, no. “Moonshine” originally referred to illegally distilled alcohol. This version just uses store-bought high-proof spirits. No illegal distillation required (or recommended).
Q: Can I use vodka instead of Everclear?
A: Absolutely! Everclear is strong (and not always available). Vodka, white rum, or even bourbon work well—just use something at least 80 proof.
Q: How long does it last?
A: Stored in a cool, dark place, your apple pie moonshine can last up to a year. But it probably won’t… because it’s that good. 😋
Q: Is it safe to drink?
A: Yes—as long as you follow proper food safety guidelines (cool it before adding alcohol, use clean bottles, etc.) and use commercially produced alcohol.
🎁 Bonus Idea: Gift Jar Version!
Want to share the love? Here’s how to turn your moonshine into a gift:
- Use 500ml jars
- Add handwritten tags (“Apple Pie in a Jar”)
- Include serving suggestions: “Serve chilled or warmed. Pairs well with chilly nights and good company.”
🧠 Final Thoughts
Apple Pie Moonshine isn’t just a drink—it’s a DIY tradition.
It’s the kind of homemade recipe that makes your kitchen smell like a holiday, your parties feel extra cozy, and your gift baskets unforgettable. 🎁
So go ahead—brew up a batch, bottle the memories, and toast to something warm, spicy, and homemade. 🍎🥃
⚖️ Legal Disclaimer
Always store alcohol safely, keep out of reach of minors, and consume responsibly.
Disclaimer: This content is intended for informational and educational purposes only.
The recipe provided here uses commercially available alcohol (such as Everclear, vodka, or rum) and does not involve or encourage the distillation of alcohol, which may be illegal without the appropriate federal, state, or local permits.
In the United States, it is illegal to distill spirits at home for consumption without a proper license from the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB), regardless of whether it’s for personal use.
Additionally, some states or countries restrict or prohibit the purchase, possession, or use of high-proof alcohol, such as 190-proof Everclear. Please check your local laws and regulations before attempting this recipe.
The author and publisher of this blog are not responsible for any legal consequences, injuries, damages, or other liabilities resulting from the misuse of this information or disregard of applicable laws.