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Apple Pie Moonshine Recipe - Quick & Easy

Sip into a slice of autumn with this homemade Apple Pie Moonshine, where every jar is infused with the warm, spicy essence of your favorite fall dessert. Crafted with care and ready to warm your spirits, it's not just a drink but a seasonal celebration in every sip.
5 from 1 vote
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine Mediterranean
Calories 65 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large Pot Needed for combining and simmering the apple cider, apple juice, sugar, and spices.
  • 1 Wooden Spons Useful for stirring the mixture to help dissolve the sugar and evenly distribute the spices.
  • 2 Measuring Cups and Spoons Essential for accurately measuring the ingredients, including the liquids, sugar, and spices.
  • 1 Thermometer (Optional) Can be helpful to ensure the mixture has cooled sufficiently before adding the alcohol, to preserve its potency.
  • 1 Funnel Makes transferring the moonshine into storage bottles or jars easier and neater.
  • 2 Mason Jars or Glass Bottles For storing the moonshine. Ensure they are clean and have tight-fitting lids to preserve the moonshine and prevent spills.

Ingredients
  

  • 1 gallon apple cider
  • 1 gallon apple juice
  • 3 cups white sugar
  • 4 cinnamon sticks
  • 1 whole nutmeg cracked
  • 8 whole cloves
  • 1 bottle 750 ml grain alcohol (e.g., Everclear)
  • 1 bottle 750 ml vodka
  • Optional for serving: Apple slices Cinnamon sticks for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Combine Cider and Juice: In a large pot, pour in the gallon of apple cider and the gallon of apple juice.
  • Add Sugar and Spices: Stir in the white sugar until fully dissolved. Add the cinnamon sticks, cracked nutmeg, and whole cloves to the mixture.
  • Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Do not let it boil. Simmer for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally.
  • Cool: After simmering, turn off the heat and allow the mixture to cool completely to room temperature. This step is crucial to avoid evaporating the alcohol in the next steps.
  • Add Alcohol: Once the mixture is cool, stir in the bottle of grain alcohol and the bottle of vodka. It's important that the mixture is cool to preserve the alcohol content.
  • Remove Spices: Take out the cinnamon sticks, nutmeg, and cloves. This prevents the flavors from becoming too overpowering.
  • Bottle: Carefully pour the moonshine into sterile mason jars or bottles. Seal them tightly.
  • Store: Keep the bottles in a cool, dark place to let the flavors continue to meld. The moonshine is drinkable immediately but improves with age.
  • Serve: Serve chilled or over ice, garnished with an apple slice and a cinnamon stick for an extra touch of flavor.

Notes

  1. Quality of Ingredients: Use fresh apple cider and apple juice for the best flavor. The quality of these base ingredients significantly impacts the overall taste of the moonshine.
  2. Alcohol Content: Be mindful of the alcohol content of the grain alcohol (like Everclear) and vodka you choose. The proof (alcohol by volume) can vary greatly, affecting the potency of your moonshine.
  3. Simmering: Never bring the mixture to a boil after adding the alcohol, as high heat will cause the alcohol to evaporate. Ensure the mixture is completely cool before incorporating the alcohol.
  4. Infusion Time: The longer the moonshine sits, the more mellow and integrated the flavors become. If you can, let it age for a few weeks or even months in a cool, dark place.
  5. Safety: When handling high-proof alcohol, work in a well-ventilated area away from open flames or heat sources due to its flammability.
  6. Serving Size: This moonshine is potent. Serve it in small amounts, and always be aware of its strength when enjoying.
  7. Storage: Store the moonshine in a cool, dark place. Properly sealed, it can last for several months. Refrigeration is not necessary but can be used if you prefer your moonshine chilled.
  8. Legal Considerations: Be aware of the laws regarding the distillation and possession of high-proof spirits in your area. While making infused spirits like this moonshine is legal in many places, distilling alcohol at home without a permit is illegal in many jurisdictions.
  9. Customization: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Adding more cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves can enhance the warmth and complexity of the flavor.
  10. Gifting: Apple Pie Moonshine makes an excellent homemade gift. Consider creative packaging, like mason jars with custom labels, for a personal touch.

Nutrition

Serving: 1fl ozCalories: 65kcalCarbohydrates: 8gSodium: 5mgPotassium: 75mgSugar: 8gVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 0.1mg
Keyword Apple Pie Moonshine
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