There’s something incredibly cozy about sipping a warm drink that embodies the flavors of apple pie, and that’s exactly what homemade apple pie moonshine offers! This delightful concoction celebrates the sweet and spicy flavors associated with fall, bringing together apple juice, cider, brown sugar, and a hint of warm spices, all topped off with a robust kick from grain alcohol and vodka.

Whether you want to indulge by the fireplace or create unique gifts for friends and family, this moonshine is sure to impress. With its smooth taste and charming aroma, it’s practically begging to be shared!

Why You’ll Love This Apple Pie Moonshine

Festive Flavor: If you’re dreaming of a drink that tastes like the holidays, look no further! This apple pie moonshine captures all the essence of those cherished dessert flavors in a glass.

Strong Boozy Taste: Fans of moonshine know it can pack a punch! However, the addition of sweet apple notes and spices helps it go down much more smoothly—so be careful!

Fun Tradition: Once a product of clandestine distillation, moonshine is now a fun beverage to make at home. However, for safety, we recommend sticking to commercial high-proof grain alcohol alongside vodka.

Great for Gifting: This drink is reminiscent of your favorite apple pie, but with a spirited twist. Pack it into mason jars with a decorative ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift.

Ingredient Notes

• Apple Juice: Opt for any brand—you want that big apple flavor!
• Apple Cider: Make sure it’s real and pure. Avoid any alcoholic versions as we have enough kick in this recipe!
• Sugar: Both brown and white sugars strike the perfect balance, complementing the bold flavors of the drink.
• Cinnamon Sticks: Don’t skip on these! They enhance the flavor as they simmer.
• Apple Pie Spices: A blend of spices that makes all the difference in keeping with that classic apple pie flavor.
• Grain Alcohol: The stronger the proof, the more potent the moonshine. Everclear is your best bet—choose between 190 and 151 proof.
• Vodka: A good unflavored vodka around 90 proof works well to tone down the strength; feel free to experiment with flavored vodkas too!

How to Make Apple Pie Moonshine

Making this delectable apple pie moonshine isn’t overly complicated. Just follow the steps carefully, and remember—it benefits from a bit of patience as it sits to develop its flavor!

Here’s how to create your very own batch:

Instructions:

1. Prep: In a large pot, mix together the apple juice, apple cider, sugars, cinnamon sticks, and apple pie spices.
2. Boil: Heat the mixture over medium-high until it reaches a boil. Then, reduce the heat and let it simmer for an hour.
3. Cool: Once simmering is complete, remove the pot from the heat and let everything cool completely.
4. Stir: After cooling, add in both the grain alcohol and vodka. Don’t forget to remove the cinnamon sticks before pouring!
5. Seal: Transfer your moonshine into sterile mason jars or bottles. Seal the jars tightly, and you can choose to refrigerate it for the best flavor, or enjoy it immediately. Shake well before serving chilled or over ice.

Tips and Tricks

Creating apple pie moonshine can seem daunting if it’s your first time, but following these handy tips can make the process easier!

• Safety First: Never add alcohol near open flames. Wait for your mixture to cool completely before incorporating the alcohol.
• Storage Options: Use leftover juice jugs or wine and liquor bottles for your moonshine.
• Don’t Rush the Maturation: Allowing your moonshine to rest for a few weeks may seem long, but it significantly enhances the flavor.
• Ensure It’s Cool: Make sure the non-alcohol mixture is completely cool to avoid evaporation or undesired chemical reactions.
• Clean Containers Are Key: Use clean jars and tight-fitting lids to mitigate the risk of bacteria.
• Serve It Cold: Chilling the moonshine or serving it on the rocks brings out the best in its flavors.
• Presentation Matters: Garnish your moonshine with apple slices or cinnamon sticks for an eye-catching display.
• If Everclear is Unavailable: Use the highest-proof vodka if Everclear is not an option in your area.
• Share and Spread the Joy: This recipe produces a generous amount, perfect for sharing with others!

How to Serve Moonshine

There are several delightful ways to serve your homemade moonshine:

• Classic Approach: Enjoy it as a shot, served over ice, or as part of a creative cocktail.
• Apple Pie Moonshine Cocktail: Shake your moonshine with some apple juice, simple syrup, and a splash of lemon juice. Garnish with apple slices and a cinnamon stick.
• Batch Cocktail: Combine it in a pitcher with some lemon-lime soda or ginger beer for a refreshing twist.

How to Store Your Moonshine

You’ll end up with a substantial yield from this recipe—four to five quarts! This means you’ll want to store it properly:

Since the alcohol content is high, a snug lid is essential. Consider boiling the lids for a few minutes and then allowing them to dry before sealing the jars. Tighten the ring to “finger tight” to create a mild vacuum without needing a full canning process.

Refrigeration:

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 months. The alcohol content will help preserve its quality.

Opened Bottles:

Once opened, try to consume within 1-2 months for the best flavors.

Freezing:

If needed, leave room in the jar for expansion and freeze for up to 2 years.