Homemade Apple Pie Moonshine: A Delicious Fall Treat

The Perfect Homemade Apple Pie Moonshine Recipe

Apple pie moonshine has become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. This delightful beverage captures the essence of fall in a jar, combining the sweet flavor of apple pie with the warming kick of high-proof alcohol. Whether you’re looking to make a batch for yourself or create memorable gifts for friends and family, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about crafting the perfect apple pie moonshine at home.

This recipe creates a dangerously delicious concoction that tastes just like liquid apple pie. The combination of apple juice, apple cider, sugars, and spices creates a sweet, warming base that perfectly masks the potent alcohol content. The result is a smooth, sippable beverage that’s perfect for cool autumn evenings and holiday gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of apple pie moonshine lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of common ingredients, you can create a beverage that tastes like it took days to make. Here’s what you’ll need to gather before getting started:

• 1 gallon apple juice
• 1 gallon apple cider
• 2 cups white sugar
• 2 cups brown sugar
• 4 cinnamon sticks (or more to taste)
• High-proof alcohol (190-proof grain alcohol preferred, but 151-proof or 100-proof can be substituted)
• Optional: Additional cinnamon sticks for garnish in jars

For the best results, use fresh, high-quality apple cider rather than the filtered, clear variety. The cloudier the cider, the more authentic apple flavor your moonshine will have. Similarly, using both white and brown sugar creates a more complex flavor profile that mimics the taste of apple pie filling.

Equipment Needed

Making apple pie moonshine doesn’t require specialized equipment, but you will need a few basic kitchen tools:

• Large stockpot (at least 5-gallon capacity)
• Long-handled wooden spoon for stirring
• Funnel
• Fine mesh strainer
• Storage containers (mason jars work perfectly)
• Measuring cups

Mason jars are particularly popular for storing and gifting apple pie moonshine. Their rustic appearance adds to the homemade charm of this beverage, and the tight-sealing lids help preserve the flavor during storage.

Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions

Creating apple pie moonshine is surprisingly simple, though it does require some patience. The process can be broken down into several straightforward steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Flavor Base

In your large stockpot, combine the apple juice, apple cider, white sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon sticks. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to help dissolve the sugars.

Once the mixture reaches a boil, reduce the heat to medium-low and allow it to simmer for approximately 20-25 minutes. During this time, the sugars will fully dissolve, and the cinnamon sticks will infuse the liquid with their warm, spicy flavor.

Step 2: Cool the Mixture

After simmering, remove the pot from the heat and allow the mixture to cool completely. This cooling period is crucial—adding alcohol to a hot mixture will cause much of it to evaporate, reducing both the potency and safety of your moonshine.

Depending on the ambient temperature and the size of your batch, cooling may take several hours. For faster results, you can place the pot in an ice bath, stirring occasionally to speed up the process. However, patience is key—ensure the mixture is completely cool before proceeding to the next step.

Step 3: Add the Alcohol

Once your apple mixture has cooled to room temperature, it’s time to add the alcohol. For traditional apple pie moonshine, 190-proof grain alcohol is the preferred choice. However, if this isn’t available in your area due to local regulations, you can substitute with 151-proof rum or 100-proof vodka.

The amount of alcohol you add can be adjusted according to your preference. For a stronger batch, add 3-4 cups of high-proof alcohol. For a milder version, reduce the amount to 2-2.5 cups. Remember that the sweet apple flavor can mask the alcohol content, so it’s always wise to err on the side of caution when determining your proportions.

Step 4: Strain and Bottle

Using a fine-mesh strainer, remove the cinnamon sticks from the mixture. Then, carefully funnel the moonshine into your storage containers. Mason jars are traditional and work perfectly for this purpose, especially if you’re planning to give some away as gifts.

For an extra touch, you can add a fresh cinnamon stick to each jar before sealing. This not only enhances the presentation but also allows the cinnamon flavor to continue developing during storage.

Aging and Storage Tips

While apple pie moonshine can be consumed immediately after preparation, its flavor improves significantly with age. Here are some tips for optimal aging and storage:

• Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place for at least 2-4 weeks before consuming for the best flavor development
• Once opened, keep refrigerated for best taste and quality
• Properly sealed and stored, apple pie moonshine can last for up to 2 years
• The flavor will continue to develop and mellow over time, with peak flavor typically reached after about 2-3 months

One of the wonderful aspects of apple pie moonshine is how the flavor evolves over time. The initial sharp alcohol edge gradually softens, allowing the apple and cinnamon flavors to become more pronounced and integrated.

Serving Suggestions

Apple pie moonshine is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:

• Serve chilled in small glasses as a sipping beverage
• Pour over ice for a refreshing treat
• Add a splash to hot apple cider for a warming winter drink
• Use as a base for fall-themed cocktails
• Drizzle over vanilla ice cream for a boozy dessert

When serving apple pie moonshine to guests, always remind them of its potent nature. The sweet, pleasant flavor can disguise the high alcohol content, making it easy to consume more than intended. Responsible serving and consumption are essential with this deceptively delicious beverage.

Gift-Giving Ideas

Apple pie moonshine makes a wonderful homemade gift for friends and family (of legal drinking age). Here are some creative ways to present your creation:

• Decorate mason jars with seasonal ribbons and tags
• Create custom labels with the production date and your personal brand name
• Pair a jar with homemade cookies or other fall treats
• Include a handwritten recipe card for recipients who might want to make their own batch
• Bundle with specialty glasses for a complete gift set

For an extra special touch, consider creating a small gift basket that includes your moonshine along with complementary items like artisanal cheeses, gourmet crackers, or locally produced honey.

Flavor Variations and Customizations

While the classic apple pie moonshine recipe is delicious on its own, there are numerous ways to customize it to suit your preferences:

Vanilla Apple Pie Moonshine

Add 1-2 teaspoons of vanilla extract or a vanilla bean to each jar for a smooth, creamy flavor that enhances the ‘à la mode’ aspect of apple pie.

Spiced Apple Pie Moonshine

Incorporate additional warming spices like nutmeg, allspice, cloves, or star anise during the simmering process for a more complex flavor profile.

Caramel Apple Pie Moonshine

Add 1/2 cup of caramel sauce or caramel syrup to the mixture before bottling for a rich, decadent variation.

Lower-Sugar Version

For those watching their sugar intake, reduce the amount of added sugar and consider using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup for part of the sweetness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is making apple pie moonshine legal?

A: While distilling alcohol at home without proper permits is illegal in most places, this recipe doesn’t involve actual distillation. It simply flavors commercially purchased alcohol, which is legal for adults of drinking age. Always check local regulations to ensure compliance.

Q: Can I use vodka instead of grain alcohol?

A: Yes, vodka can be substituted for grain alcohol, though you may need to adjust the amount to achieve your desired potency. A high-quality, unflavored vodka works best.

Q: How strong is apple pie moonshine?

A: The alcohol content depends on the proof of alcohol used and the ratio to other ingredients. With 190-proof grain alcohol, the finished product typically ranges from 20-35% alcohol by volume.

Q: Does apple pie moonshine need to be refrigerated?

A: Before opening, apple pie moonshine can be stored in a cool, dark place. Once opened, refrigeration is recommended to maintain optimal flavor and quality.

Q: How long does homemade apple pie moonshine last?

A: Properly sealed and stored, apple pie moonshine can last up to 2 years, though the flavor is typically best within the first year.

Safety Considerations

While making and enjoying apple pie moonshine can be a delightful experience, there are important safety considerations to keep in mind:

• Always drink responsibly and be aware of the high alcohol content
• Never consume homemade spirits that have been produced through actual distillation unless made by a licensed distiller
• Store out of reach of children and clearly label as containing alcohol
• Use caution when handling high-proof alcohol, keeping it away from open flames and heat sources
• Never drive after consuming apple pie moonshine or any alcoholic beverage

Remember that the sweet, pleasant taste of apple pie moonshine can mask its potent nature. Always sip slowly and be mindful of its effects, especially when serving to guests who may not be familiar with its strength.

Conclusion

Homemade apple pie moonshine is more than just a beverage—it’s a celebration of autumn flavors, a homage to American tradition, and a creative expression that can be shared with friends and loved ones. With its perfect balance of sweet apple, warming cinnamon, and potent kick, it’s no wonder this concoction has become a modern classic.

Whether you’re making it for personal enjoyment or as thoughtful handcrafted gifts, this apple pie moonshine recipe offers a delicious way to capture the essence of fall in a jar. Follow the steps outlined in this guide, experiment with variations to make it your own, and always enjoy responsibly. Here’s to creating memories and traditions, one batch of apple pie moonshine at a time!

Author

Shinta

 

Shinta is a biotechnologist turned writer. She holds a master's degree in Biotechnology from Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences and a PG Diploma in cellular and molecular diagnostics from Manipal University. Shinta realised her love for content while working as an editor for a scientific journal.

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