Apple Pie Moonshine Recipe

Apple cider: Provides the rich, apple flavor base for the moonshine.

Apple juice: Adds sweetness and enhances the apple flavor.

Granulated sugar: Sweetens the mixture and balances the tartness of the cider and juice.

Brown sugar: Adds a deeper, caramel-like sweetness to the moonshine.

Cinnamon sticks: Infuses the drink with warm, spicy notes.

Grain alcohol: Gives the moonshine its potent kick.

When simmering the apple cider and apple juice mixture, make sure to stir occasionally to prevent the sugars from sticking to the bottom of the pot and burning. This will ensure a smooth and well-blended base for your moonshine.

• apple cider - Substitute with pear cider: Pear cider has a similar sweetness and acidity, making it a good alternative for apple cider.

• apple juice - Substitute with white grape juice: White grape juice provides a similar sweetness and light flavor, though it will slightly alter the taste profile.

• granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness and a bit of depth to the flavor, though it may slightly change the consistency.

• brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a similar caramel-like flavor and can be used in the same quantity.

• cinnamon sticks - Substitute with ground cinnamon: Ground cinnamon can be used in place of sticks, though it will disperse throughout the liquid rather than infusing it.

• grain alcohol (everclear) - Substitute with vodka: Vodka has a high alcohol content and a neutral flavor, making it a suitable substitute for grain alcohol.

• Ensure your apple pie moonshine is completely cooled before storing. This helps maintain the integrity of the grain alcohol and prevents any unwanted condensation inside the jars.
• Use sterilized mason jars to store your moonshine. Sterilizing the jars can be done by boiling them in water for about 10 minutes and letting them dry completely.
• Pour the moonshine into the jars, making sure to include a cinnamon stick in each one. This not only adds flavor but also enhances the visual appeal.
• Seal the jars tightly with their lids to prevent any air from entering. This helps in preserving the flavor and potency of the moonshine.
• Store the jars in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or a cellar. The ideal temperature should be between 50-70°F (10-21°C). This environment helps maintain the quality of the apple pie moonshine.
• If you plan to store the moonshine for an extended period, consider labeling each jar with the date it was made. This helps you keep track of its age and ensures you consume the oldest batch first.
• For freezing, ensure the jars are not filled to the brim. Leave about an inch of space at the top to allow for expansion as the liquid freezes.
• Place the jars in the freezer, ensuring they are upright and secure. Freezing can help extend the shelf life, but remember that the high alcohol content will prevent the moonshine from freezing solid.
• When ready to use, thaw the moonshine in the refrigerator or at room temperature. Avoid using a microwave as it can alter the flavor and potency.
• Always give the moonshine a good shake before serving to redistribute any settled ingredients and ensure a consistent flavor profile.

• Pour the apple pie moonshine into a heat-safe container, such as a glass measuring cup or a small saucepan.
• Place the container in a pot of simmering water, creating a makeshift double boiler. This gentle method ensures the moonshine warms evenly without burning off the alcohol.
• Stir occasionally and heat until it reaches your desired temperature. Avoid boiling to preserve the grain alcohol content.
• Alternatively, you can use a microwave. Pour the moonshine into a microwave-safe mug. Heat in 15-second intervals, stirring in between, until warm. Be cautious not to overheat.
• For a cozy twist, warm the moonshine in a slow cooker on the low setting. This method is perfect for gatherings, keeping the apple pie moonshine at a consistent temperature for hours.
• Serve in mugs, garnished with a fresh cinnamon stick or a slice of apple for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.

• Large pot: Used to combine and heat the apple cider, apple juice, sugars, and cinnamon sticks.

• Stirring spoon: Essential for mixing the ingredients together while they heat and simmer.

• Measuring cups: Needed to measure out the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and grain alcohol accurately.

• Mason jars: Used to store the finished apple pie moonshine, ensuring it stays fresh and flavorful.

• Ladle: Helpful for transferring the cooled mixture into the mason jars without spilling.

• Funnel: Makes it easier to pour the moonshine into the mason jars without making a mess.

• Tongs: Useful for placing a cinnamon stick into each mason jar.

• Cooling rack: Allows the pot to cool down to room temperature more efficiently after simmering.

• Timer: Helps keep track of the simmering time to ensure the mixture is cooked properly.

Use a slow cooker: Combine apple cider, apple juice, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon sticks in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours to save active cooking time.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all your ingredients ahead of time to streamline the process.

Cool faster: After simmering, place the pot in an ice bath to cool the mixture more quickly before adding the grain alcohol.

Use a funnel: Use a funnel to pour the mixture into mason jars to avoid spills and save cleanup time.