This Apple Pie Moonshine is an easy recipe you can make at home. It’s full of crisp apple and seasonal spice flavor. Serve it for special occasions or present it as gifts to friends and family. Either way, you’ll enjoy this delicious and flavorful recipe.
Party-Ready Apple Pie Moonshine
This homemade apple pie moonshine recipe comes from my sister-in-law, Missy. She’s been making this moonshine for the past couple of years. I’m not sure why I hadn’t thought to share it with you sooner.
It’s become a tradition of sorts for us to have a sip during the holidays and on special occasions. It also makes a unique gift for friends, family, and neighbors, whatever the occasion.
Like this moonshine recipe? Try these cocktails:
- Fruit Infused Cocktails
- Caramel Apple Martini
- Homemade Pineapple Rum
- Blackberry Basil Sangria
- Harvest Apple Mule
What is Moonshine?
Real moonshine is a homemade high-proof liquor. It is usually used to describe alcohol that is made illegally. In fact, that is where the name comes from – making alcohol by the light of the moon during Prohibition (when the government isn’t watching).
That is not what my recipe is. Nope, I created what tastes as strong as moonshine. Instead of distilling my own alcohol, I used Everclear. This drink really does taste as strong as some of the drinks you might find in the mountains.
If you’ve never had apple pie moonshine, I must warn you that it’s as dangerous as it is delicious! This moonshine is made from 190 proof grain alcohol (Everclear), so it packs a punch. Given that it also tastes amazing, it’s best in moderation and should only be served by the shot.
Please enjoy responsibly.
How to Make Apple Pie Moonshine
There are just a few simple ingredients in this super-strong drink. My recipe makes a big batch that you can serve at parties or hand out as gifts. Here is what I used:
- Apple cider
- Apple juice
- White sugar
- Brown sugar
- Cinnamon sticks
- Apple pie spice
- Grain alcohol, 190 proof
- Vodka
To make the moonshine, simmer apple cider, apple juice, sugar, and seasonal spices for an hour to blend all the flavors together. (While the juice is cooking, check out my Friendsgiving playlist here.)
Once cooled, add the alcohol. Then the apple pie moonshine is ready to drink. It’s that simple. However, for best results, I recommend letting it sit in the refrigerator for about a month. The longer it sits, the better it gets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some questions people often ask about apple pie moonshine. If you don’t see your question in this list, please leave it in the comments.
What type of alcohol should I use to make moonshine?
If your state doesn’t sell 190 proof grain alcohol (aka Everclear), you can substitute 150 proof or use more vodka.
What are the best jars for apple pie moonshine?
I like to store the moonshine in full-size mason jars and seal them tightly with lids. This will help this mixed drink last longer.
Side note: For those wondering about my cute mason jar shot glasses you can find them HERE. Aren’t they adorable!?
How long does flavored moonshine last?
If you can seal it, this moonshine should last up to two years. Once opened, I’d say it will keep for about three months in the refrigerator.
However, I like to store mine in the freezer. They can last in the freezer for up to two years as well.
Does apple pie moonshine get stronger the longer it sits?
Yes, this drink really does get better with age. Place it in mason jars, seal it, and let it sit in the back of your refrigerator for about three weeks. You will notice a stronger flavor and aroma!
What proof should apple pie moonshine be?
There really isn’t a rule for how strong this drink should be – that is up to you. The grain alcohol with the vodka will make this a very strong drink. With all the apple juice and apple cider in it, the flavors are really well balanced, so the alcohol doesn’t burn as it goes down.
How do you make apple pie moonshine mash?
I have heard of people making homemade applesauce and then using this apple mash to flavor their moonshine mixed drinks. I have not personally tried it. If you do, please let me know how it turns out.
Should I freeze apple pie moonshine?
Yes, I think you should freeze the moonshine, especially if you won’t drink it all very soon. It will stay good in the freezer for up to two years. This is my favorite way to store alcohol.
That’s a Wrap on Apple Pie Moonshine!
No matter how you make it, this moonshine is a delicious treat in small doses, and, as I said, it makes a special gift. You can grab the full recipe for this delicious apple pie moonshine recipe below.
Thank you so much for joining me! I hope you like this apple pie moonshine recipe.
Cheers, my friends!
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Homemade Apple Pie Moonshine Recipe:
Apple Pie Moonshine
Ingredients
- 1 gallon apple cider
- 1 gallon apple juice
- 2 cups white sugar
- 2 cups brown sugar
- 6 cinnamon sticks - plus more for garnish
- 1 teaspoon apple pie spice
- 1 (750 ml) bottle grain alcohol, 190 proof
- 1 (750 ml) bottle vodka
Instructions
- In a large stock pot, combine the apple cider, apple juice, white sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, and apple pie spice. Bring to almost a boil. Cover the pot with a lid and reduce heat. Simmer for one hour. Remove the pot from heat and allow the mixture to cool.
- Once cool, remove the cinnamon sticks. Stir in the grain alcohol and vodka. Transfer the apple pie moonshine into sterilized quart jars or bottles and garnish with a cinnamon stick.
- The Apple Pie Moonshine can be enjoyed immediately. However, for the best flavor, store in the jar with a lid in the refrigerator for 3-4 weeks before drinking. Shake well before serving.
Notes
Nutrition Facts
This is exactly how I make mine! I’m being told it must be weak because it turns into a slushie in the freezer? After it’s all said and done, what’s the alcohol content?? Thank you!
This recipe is very similar to mine. I make it every year and give as gifts and folks always ask for more! I’m going to try yours this year, I know it will be delicious 😋
Please adjust the recipe time. Never mind that it takes sooooo long to bring this big pot to a boil, your directions say to simmer for one hour, but time at top says time is 50 minutes.
L let you know how I like it, it’s simmering right now
Sometimes mistakes happen. Thanks for letting me know.
xo Michael
Michael,
So very worth the time . Thanks for sharing this fabulous recipe!
Michael
Love it. Worth the time.. thanks for sharing!
When you say “seal” it do you mean water bath process or pressure cook? I’m a canner so when I see the word seal I assume you mean that. Or do you just mean put a lid and ring on your mason jar?
Just put a lid and ring on. I did not water bath these.
xo Michael
I really want to try this apple pie moonshine! It looks lavishing. I often use these kinds of jars in preserving jams.
Can you make with just Cider and not apple jucice? I made a similar recipe and it I must have done something wrong because its jelly-like and I made with just cider and Everclear. Maybe I overboiled?