Apple Pie Moonshine Recipe

Apple juice: Provides the base flavor and sweetness for the moonshine.

Apple cider: Adds a rich, spiced apple flavor that complements the juice.

Granulated sugar: Sweetens the mixture and balances the alcohol.

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

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

Everclear: A high-proof grain alcohol that gives the moonshine its kick.

Vanilla vodka: Adds a smooth, vanilla flavor that enhances the overall taste.

When preparing the apple juice and apple cider mixture, make sure to bring it to a gentle boil to fully dissolve the granulated sugar and brown sugar. This ensures a smooth consistency and prevents any graininess in the final product. Additionally, allowing the mixture to simmer with the cinnamon sticks for an hour helps to extract the maximum flavor from the spices, creating a rich and aromatic base for your moonshine.

• apple juice - Substitute with pear juice: Pear juice has a similar sweetness and consistency, making it a good alternative.

• apple cider - Substitute with pear cider: Pear cider provides a similar flavor profile and can be used in the same quantity.

• granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness and a slight floral note, though it may slightly alter the texture.

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

• cinnamon sticks - Substitute with ground cinnamon: Use ground cinnamon in a smaller quantity (about ½ teaspoon per stick) to achieve a similar flavor.

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

• vanilla vodka - Substitute with regular vodka and vanilla extract: Use regular vodka and add 1-2 teaspoons of vanilla extract to mimic the flavor of vanilla vodka.

• Ensure your apple pie moonshine is completely cooled before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can dilute the flavors and affect the shelf life.

• Use sterilized mason jars with tight-sealing lids. Sterilization can be done by boiling the jars and lids in water for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial to prevent any bacterial growth.

• Pour the moonshine into the jars, making sure to include a cinnamon stick in each one. The cinnamon stick not only adds flavor but also acts as a natural preservative.

• Store the jars in a cool, dark place. A pantry or a cellar is ideal. The absence of light and heat helps maintain the integrity of the flavors.

• Allow the moonshine to sit for at least 2 weeks before consuming. This aging process allows the apple juice, apple cider, and spices to meld together, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

• For longer storage, you can freeze the moonshine. Make sure to leave some space at the top of the jars to allow for expansion as the liquid freezes.

• When freezing, use freezer-safe containers. While mason jars are generally safe, double-check that they are labeled as freezer-safe to avoid any cracking or breaking.

• Label each jar with the date of preparation. This helps you keep track of the aging process and ensures you consume the moonshine at its peak flavor.

• If you plan to gift the moonshine, consider adding a decorative label or tag with the ingredients and aging date. This adds a personal touch and informs the recipient about the aging process.

• Once opened, store the moonshine in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for several months, but always check for any off smells or flavors before consuming.

• Enjoy your apple pie moonshine responsibly. Its delightful blend of apple and cinnamon flavors can be quite potent, so savor it in moderation.

• Gently reheat the apple pie moonshine by placing the sealed mason jar in a pot of warm water. Heat over low to medium heat until it reaches your desired temperature. This method helps maintain the integrity of the flavors without evaporating the alcohol.

• For a quicker method, pour the moonshine into a microwave-safe mug. Heat in the microwave on medium power in 15-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until warm. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can cause the alcohol to evaporate.

• If you prefer a more aromatic experience, pour the moonshine into a small saucepan and warm it on the stove over low heat. Stir occasionally and remove from heat once it’s warm. This method allows the cinnamon and apple aromas to fill your kitchen.

• For a festive twist, warm the moonshine in a slow cooker on the low setting. This is perfect for gatherings, as it keeps the drink warm for an extended period without the risk of overheating. Add a few extra cinnamon sticks or a slice of apple for added flavor and presentation.

• If you have a sous-vide machine, set it to 140°F (60°C) and place the sealed mason jar in the water bath. This method ensures precise temperature control, preserving the alcohol content and flavors perfectly.

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

• Stirring spoon: Essential for mixing the ingredients together while they are heating and simmering.

• Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the granulated sugar and brown sugar.

• Ladle: Useful for transferring the cooled mixture into mason jars.

• Mason jars: Containers for storing the moonshine, ensuring it is sealed tightly and can be stored properly.

• Funnel: Helps to pour the liquid into the mason jars without spilling.

• Cinnamon sticks: Included in each mason jar to enhance the flavor over time.

• Stove: Used to bring the mixture to a boil and then simmer it.

• Cooling rack: Allows the pot to cool down to room temperature after removing it from the heat.

• Timer: Helps keep track of the simmering time and the cooling period.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure out the apple juice, apple cider, and sugars ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.

Use a slow cooker: Instead of simmering on the stove, use a slow cooker to combine the ingredients. This allows you to set it and forget it.

Pre-mix alcohol: Combine the everclear and vanilla vodka in a separate container while the mixture cools, so you can quickly add them in later.

Batch process: Make a larger batch and store it, reducing the frequency of preparation.

Cool quickly: Place the pot in an ice bath to speed up the cooling process before adding the alcohol.