Apple Pie Moonshine: Turkey Fryer Magic

Apple pie moonshine is a popular drink, especially during the fall season. It is an alcoholic beverage that combines the flavours of apple pie with a kick of moonshine, a high-proof liquor typically made illegally, giving it a strong association with autumn and winter. While it can be made and distilled at home, it is crucial to exercise caution and moderation when consuming it due to its high alcohol content.

Ingredients and preparation

Apple pie moonshine is a delightful drink that captures the essence of a homemade apple pie in a boozy form. Here is a detailed list of ingredients and step-by-step instructions on how to make it.

Ingredients:

• Apple juice (1 gallon)
• Apple cider (1 gallon)
• Cinnamon sticks (4-6, plus more for garnish)
• Apple pie spice (a pinch or 1 teaspoon)
• Grain alcohol (1 bottle, 750 ml, 190 proof)
• Vodka (1 bottle, 750 ml)
• White sugar (optional)
• Brown sugar (optional)

Optional ingredients for added flavour:

• Nutmeg
• Allspice
• Cloves
• Red hot candies
• Apple slices
• Whipped cream vodka
• Fireball
• Vanilla bean
• Vanilla vodka
• Spiced rum
• Honeycrisp apples
• Ginger
• Rum

Preparation:

• Combine the apple cider, apple juice, white sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, and apple pie spice in a large pot.
• Bring the mixture to a boil, cover the pot, and reduce the heat.
• Simmer for about 1 hour, then remove from the heat and let it cool completely.
• Once cool, stir in the grain alcohol and vodka.
• Remove the cinnamon sticks and transfer the apple pie moonshine into clean glass jars or bottles.
• For the best flavour, store the jars with lids in the refrigerator for 3-4 weeks or up to 8 weeks before drinking.
• Shake well before serving.

Note: Do not add the alcohol near a flame or heat source as it is highly flammable. Make sure the mixture is completely cooled before adding the alcohol.

The longer the moonshine sits, the better it gets. It can be enjoyed warm or cold and makes a perfect gift for friends and family.

How to make apple pie moonshine without distillation

Ingredients:

• 1 gallon apple cider
• 1 gallon apple juice
• 4 cinnamon sticks, or more to taste
• 1 pinch apple pie spice
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 (750 ml) bottle grain alcohol, 190 proof
• 1 (750 ml) bottle vodka
• White sugar, to taste
• Brown sugar, to taste

Method:

• Combine apple cider, apple juice, white sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, and apple pie spice in a large pot.
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 1 hour.
• Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool completely.
• Once cool, remove the cinnamon sticks and stir in the grain alcohol and vodka.
• Transfer the apple pie moonshine into clean glass jars or bottles.
• Store in the refrigerator for 3-4 weeks before drinking. The longer it sits, the better it gets!

Tips:

• Experiment with different types of apples and spices to find your perfect combination.
• Adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste preferences.
• For a fun presentation, add a cinnamon stick or a slice of apple to each serving glass.
• If you can't find 190-proof grain alcohol, you can substitute 150-proof or use more vodka.
• This moonshine can be enjoyed immediately but tastes better after being refrigerated for a few weeks.
• You can also freeze the moonshine for up to two years.

How to make authentic apple pie moonshine with distillation

Making apple pie moonshine is a fun and straightforward process, and you can do it at home! Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make authentic apple pie moonshine with distillation:

Ingredients:

• 1 gallon apple juice
• 1 gallon apple cider
• 4-6 cinnamon sticks, plus more for garnish
• A pinch of apple pie spice
• 1 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• 1 (750 ml) bottle 190-proof grain alcohol (Everclear)
• 1 (750 ml) bottle vodka
• White sugar, to taste
• Brown sugar, to taste

Instructions:

• Gather all your ingredients.
• In a large stockpot, combine the apple cider, apple juice, white sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, and apple pie spice. You can also add a couple of dashes of nutmeg for extra flavour.
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about an hour.
• Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool completely.
• Once cool, remove the cinnamon sticks and stir in the grain alcohol and vodka.
• Transfer your apple pie moonshine into clean glass jars or bottles. You can use leftover apple juice or cider jugs, or wine and liquor bottles.
• Store your moonshine in the refrigerator. It will get better with age, so the longer it sits, the better it gets!

Tips:

• Experiment with spices: While cinnamon is a classic, feel free to add nutmeg, allspice, or a touch of cloves.
• Sweeten to taste: Adjust the amount of sugar to your preference.
• Get creative with presentation: Add a cinnamon stick or a slice of apple to each serving glass, or personalise your labels to make your moonshine an eye-catching gift.
• You can also add apple chunks to your jars for extra flavour and a unique look.
• Always taste and adjust: Don't be afraid to experiment until you find the perfect balance of flavours that suits your taste.

Apple pie moonshine variations

Apple pie moonshine is a versatile recipe that can be customised to your taste preferences. Here are some variations to the original recipe:

Sugar Substitutes

You can use white sugar, brown sugar, or a combination of both in your apple pie moonshine. If you prefer less sweetness or have specific dietary needs, you can use a sugar substitute or reduce the quantity of sugar. It is recommended to start with the suggested amount, taste after a day or two, and adjust as needed, being careful not to overpower the apple and spice flavours.

Spice Experiments

While cinnamon is a classic spice for apple pie moonshine, you can experiment with other spices such as nutmeg, allspice, or cloves to add depth and complexity to the flavour profile. A pinch of an unexpected spice can elevate your moonshine to new heights.

Creative Additions

You can add a slice of apple to each serving glass for a charming touch. Additionally, some people like to add whipped cream vodka, fireball, or vanilla bean to their recipe. For a deliciously sweet kick, you can drop in some red hot candies. If you want to enhance the apple flavour even more, consider using apple juice concentrate.

Alcohol Variations

The type of alcohol used in apple pie moonshine can be customised based on availability and personal preference. While 190-proof grain alcohol (Everclear) is commonly used, you can substitute it with 150-proof grain alcohol or use more vodka. If you can't access Everclear, you can opt for the highest proof vodka available at your local liquor store.

Presentation and Gifting

Apple pie moonshine is often presented in mason jars, either full-size or as shot glasses, and sealed tightly with lids. You can add a cinnamon stick or a slice of apple to each jar or serving glass for an extra touch of charm. Personalised labels or tags can also make your homemade moonshine an eye-catching and memorable gift for friends and family during special occasions or holidays.

FAQs about apple pie moonshine

If your state doesn't sell 190-proof grain alcohol (Everclear), you can substitute 150-proof alcohol or use more vodka.

Full-size mason jars with tight-fitting lids are ideal for storing apple pie moonshine. This will help the drink last longer.

If sealed, apple pie moonshine can last up to two years. Once opened, it will keep for about three months in the refrigerator or up to two years in the freezer.

Yes, apple pie moonshine does get stronger and more flavourful with age. It's best to place it in sealed mason jars and let it sit in a cool, dry place for about three weeks to enhance its flavour and aroma.

There isn't a specific rule for how strong apple pie moonshine should be. The alcohol content depends on personal preference. The combination of grain alcohol and vodka will create a very strong drink, but the apple juice and cider balance the flavours so the alcohol doesn't overpower.

Some people make homemade applesauce and then use this apple mash to flavour their moonshine. Alternatively, you can cook apple chunks with the mixture, mash them, and then strain the liquid.

Frequently asked questions