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 flavors.

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

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

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

Vanilla vodka: Adds a smooth, vanilla flavor to the drink.

When simmering the apple cider and apple juice mixture, make sure to stir occasionally to ensure the sugars dissolve completely and don't stick to the bottom of the pot. This will help achieve a smooth and well-blended base for your moonshine.

• apple cider - Substitute with pear cider: Pear cider provides a similar fruity base with a slightly different flavor profile.

• apple juice - Substitute with white grape juice: White grape juice offers a similar sweetness and consistency.

• granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness and a bit of depth to the flavor.

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

• whole cinnamon - Substitute with ground cinnamon: Ground cinnamon can be used if whole sticks are not available, but use less as it is more concentrated.

• 190 proof everclear - Substitute with vodka: Vodka is a more commonly available high-proof alcohol that can be used in place of Everclear.

• vanilla vodka - Substitute with regular vodka and vanilla extract: Regular vodka combined with a splash of vanilla extract can mimic the flavor of vanilla vodka.

• Ensure your apple pie moonshine is completely cooled before storing. This helps maintain the integrity of the flavors and prevents any unwanted condensation inside your storage containers.

• Use clean, sterilized mason jars or bottles to store your moonshine. Sterilizing your containers is crucial to prevent any bacterial growth and to keep your moonshine fresh for longer periods.

• Pour the moonshine into the jars or bottles, leaving about an inch of space at the top. This allows for any expansion that might occur if you decide to freeze the moonshine.

• Seal the jars or bottles tightly with their lids. A tight seal ensures that no air can enter, which could potentially spoil the moonshine.

• Label each jar or bottle with the date of preparation. This helps you keep track of how long the moonshine has been stored and ensures you consume it within a safe timeframe.

• Store the jars or bottles in a cool, dark place. A pantry, basement, or a cupboard away from direct sunlight is ideal. Light and heat can degrade the flavors and potency of the moonshine over time.

• If you plan to freeze the moonshine, make sure to use freezer-safe containers. Glass jars can crack under freezing temperatures if not designed for it. Consider using plastic containers if you're unsure.

• When freezing, leave extra space at the top of the container. Liquids expand when frozen, and this extra space will prevent the container from bursting.

• Thaw frozen moonshine in the refrigerator or at room temperature before consuming. Avoid using a microwave to thaw, as it can alter the flavors and potentially reduce the alcohol content.

• For best results, consume your apple pie moonshine within a year of preparation. While it can last longer, the flavors and quality are at their peak within this timeframe.

• Gently warm your apple pie moonshine on the stove over low heat. Use a saucepan and stir occasionally to ensure even heating. Avoid boiling to retain the flavors and alcohol content.
• For a quick and easy method, use a microwave. Pour a serving into a microwave-safe mug and heat in 15-second intervals, stirring in between until it reaches your desired temperature.
• If you prefer a more traditional approach, use a double boiler. Place the moonshine in the top part of the double boiler and heat over simmering water. This method ensures gentle and even warming without the risk of overheating.
• For a cozy touch, warm the moonshine in a slow cooker. Set it to the lowest setting and let it warm gradually. This method is perfect for serving a crowd and keeping the moonshine warm throughout the evening.
• If you have a sous-vide machine, seal the moonshine in a vacuum bag and immerse it in a water bath set to a low temperature. This method provides precise control over the heating process.

• 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 simmer.

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

• Strainer: Used to remove the cinnamon sticks and any other solids from the mixture.

• Mason jars or bottles: Containers for storing the finished moonshine.

• Ladle: Helpful for transferring the moonshine into the mason jars or bottles.

• Funnel: Makes it easier to pour the moonshine into the jars or bottles without spilling.

• Thermometer: Useful for ensuring the mixture has cooled to room temperature before adding the alcohol.

• Tongs: Handy for removing the cinnamon sticks from the pot.

Pre-mix the sugars: Combine the granulated sugar and brown sugar ahead of time to save a step during cooking.

Use a slow cooker: Instead of simmering on the stove, use a slow cooker to free up your time and avoid constant monitoring.

Pre-measure alcohol: Measure out the everclear and vanilla vodka while the mixture is cooling to streamline the process.

Batch preparation: Make a double batch and store extra apple pie moonshine for future use, reducing the need for frequent preparation.