Apple Pie Moonshine Recipe

Apple cider: Provides a rich, apple-flavored base for the moonshine.

Apple juice: Adds sweetness and enhances the apple flavor.

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

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

Cinnamon sticks: Infuses the moonshine with a warm, spicy flavor.

190 proof grain alcohol: Gives the moonshine its potent kick and preserves the mixture.

When simmering the apple cider and apple juice mixture, ensure you stir occasionally to prevent the sugars from sticking to the bottom of the pot and burning. This will help maintain a smooth consistency and even flavor throughout the moonshine.

• apple cider - Substitute with pear cider: Pear cider provides a similar sweetness and fruity flavor, making it a good alternative.

• apple juice - Substitute with white grape juice: White grape juice has a mild sweetness and a light flavor that can mimic the taste of apple juice.

• granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness and a slight floral note, which can complement the other flavors.

• brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a rich, caramel-like sweetness similar to brown sugar.

• cinnamon sticks - Substitute with ground cinnamon: Ground cinnamon can be used in place of sticks, though you may need to adjust the quantity to avoid overpowering the drink.

• 190 proof grain alcohol - Substitute with vodka: Vodka is a neutral spirit that can be used as a substitute, though it is less potent than grain alcohol.

• Ensure your apple pie moonshine is completely cooled before storing. This prevents condensation, which can dilute the flavors and affect the overall quality.
• Use sterilized mason jars to store your moonshine. Sterilizing the jars helps to prevent any bacterial growth and keeps your moonshine fresh.
• Seal the jars tightly to maintain the integrity of the moonshine. A tight seal ensures that no air can enter, which could spoil the mixture.
• Store the jars in a cool, dark place. Exposure to light and heat can degrade the quality of the moonshine over time.
• For long-term storage, consider placing the jars in a refrigerator. The cold temperature will help preserve the flavors and extend the shelf life.
• If you plan to freeze the moonshine, leave some space at the top of the jars. Liquids expand when frozen, and this extra space will prevent the jars from cracking.
• Label each jar with the date of preparation. This helps you keep track of how long the moonshine has been stored and ensures you consume it while it's still at its best.
• When ready to serve, allow the moonshine to thaw completely if it has been frozen. This ensures that the flavors are fully restored and the drink is enjoyable.
• Shake the jar gently before serving to mix any settled ingredients and ensure a consistent flavor throughout.
• Enjoy your apple pie moonshine responsibly, savoring the rich, spiced flavors that make it a delightful treat.

• For a gentle reheat, pour the apple pie moonshine into a saucepan and warm it over low heat. Stir occasionally and remove from heat once it reaches the desired temperature. Avoid boiling to preserve the grain alcohol content.
• If you prefer using a microwave, transfer a portion of the apple pie moonshine into a microwave-safe mug. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it’s warm enough. Be cautious not to overheat.
• For a cozy, slow reheat, use a slow cooker. Set it to the 'keep warm' setting and pour in the apple pie moonshine. Let it warm gradually, stirring occasionally. This method is perfect for serving at gatherings.
• If you have a double boiler, fill the bottom pot with water and bring it to a simmer. Place the apple pie moonshine in the top pot and gently heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s warmed through. This method ensures even heating without the risk of burning.

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

• Stirring spoon: To mix the ingredients together while they are heating and simmering.

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

• Mason jars: To store the finished apple pie moonshine.

• Lids and bands: To seal the mason jars tightly.

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

• Cooling rack: To allow the pot to cool to room temperature safely.

• Funnel: To help pour the moonshine mixture into the mason jars without spilling.

• Ladle: To transfer the moonshine mixture from the pot to the mason jars.

• Timer: To keep track of the simmering time.

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

Use a slow cooker: Instead of simmering on the stove, use a slow cooker to combine and heat the ingredients, freeing up your time.

Pre-mix sugars: Combine the granulated sugar and brown sugar in a bowl before adding them to the pot.

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

Batch process: Make a larger batch and store it, so you have apple pie moonshine ready for future use.