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 cider and juice.

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

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

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

When simmering the apple cider and apple juice mixture, make sure to stir occasionally to prevent the sugars from sticking to the bottom of the pot and caramelizing. This will ensure a smooth and consistent flavor throughout your apple pie moonshine.

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

• apple juice - Substitute with white grape juice: White grape juice offers a similar sweetness and consistency, though it will alter the flavor slightly.

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

• brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a rich, caramel-like sweetness similar to brown sugar, though it will add a distinct maple flavor.

• cinnamon sticks - Substitute with ground cinnamon: Ground cinnamon can be used in place of sticks, though it will disperse more evenly and may alter the texture slightly.

• everclear - Substitute with vodka: Vodka is a good alternative as it is also a neutral spirit, though it is less potent than everclear.

• Ensure the apple pie moonshine is completely cooled before storing. This prevents condensation inside the jars, which can dilute the moonshine and affect its flavor.

• Use clean, sterilized mason jars with tight-fitting lids. Sterilizing the jars helps prevent any bacterial growth and ensures the moonshine stays fresh for a longer period.

• Pour the moonshine into the jars, leaving about an inch of headspace at the top. This allows for any expansion if you decide to freeze the jars.

• Store the jars in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cellar. Exposure to light and heat can degrade the quality of the moonshine over time.

• For long-term storage, consider freezing the apple pie moonshine. Place the jars in the freezer, ensuring they are upright and not touching each other. This prevents the jars from cracking due to expansion.

• If freezing, allow the jars to thaw slowly in the refrigerator before opening. Rapid temperature changes can cause the glass to crack.

• Label each jar with the date it was made. This helps you keep track of its age and ensures you consume the oldest batches first.

• If you notice any changes in color, smell, or taste, discard the moonshine. These changes can indicate spoilage or contamination.

• For a festive touch, add a cinnamon stick or a slice of apple to each jar before sealing. This not only enhances the flavor but also makes for a beautiful presentation.

• Gently warm the apple pie moonshine in a saucepan over low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent any sugar from sticking to the bottom.
• For a quicker method, microwave the moonshine in a microwave-safe mug. Heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it reaches your desired temperature.
• If you prefer a more controlled approach, use a double boiler. Place the moonshine in the top part of the double boiler and gently heat it over simmering water, stirring occasionally.
• To add a touch of sophistication, warm the moonshine in a slow cooker on the low setting. This method is perfect for serving a crowd, as it keeps the moonshine warm for an extended period without the risk of overheating.
• For an outdoor gathering, consider reheating the moonshine over a campfire. Place the moonshine in a heatproof container and warm it slowly over the fire, stirring frequently to avoid scorching.

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

• Stirring spoon: Essential for mixing the ingredients together to ensure the sugars dissolve properly.

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

• Measuring spoons: Useful for measuring smaller quantities if needed.

• Cinnamon sticks: Added directly to the pot for flavoring.

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

• Cooling rack: Helps to cool the pot to room temperature more quickly.

• Mason jars: Used to store the finished moonshine.

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

• Lid sealer: Ensures the mason jars are sealed tightly to preserve the moonshine.

• Thermometer: Optional, but can be used to check that the mixture has cooled to room temperature before adding the everclear.

Use a slow cooker: Combine the apple cider, apple juice, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon sticks in a slow cooker and let it simmer for an hour. This allows you to multitask.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all your ingredients beforehand to streamline the cooking process.

Cool faster: After simmering, place the pot in an ice bath to cool the mixture quickly before adding the everclear.

Batch preparation: Make a larger batch and store it in mason jars for future use, saving time on multiple preparations.