Cozy Apple Pie Moonshine
Warm, spiced, and just the right hint of mischief, this apple pie moonshine blends apple cider, apple juice, cinnamon, and a splash of grain alcohol for a cozy, boozy sipper. It's basically fall in a jar—sweet, spicy, and sneakily strong, perfect for gifting or savoring by the fire.
12
cups (approx. 3 quarts)
Ingredients
Cider Base
- 1 gallon (3.8 liters) apple cider fresh-pressed preferred
- 1 quart (950 ml) apple juice not from concentrate if possible
- 1 cup (200 g) white sugar
- 1 cup (220 g) light brown sugar packed
- 6 cinnamon sticks
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) apple pie spice
Booze
- 2 cups (470 ml) 190-proof grain alcohol such as Everclear; see notes for substitutions
- 2 cups (470 ml) vodka unflavored
Equipment
- Large pot
- Measuring cups
- Sterile Mason Jars or Glass Bottles
- Ladle
- Fine Mesh Strainer
Instructions
- Combine the cider base: In a large pot over medium-high heat, combine apple cider, apple juice, white sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, and apple pie spice. Stir until sugars dissolve.
- Simmer & infuse: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer gently for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Cool completely: Remove from heat and let the mixture cool fully to room temperature. Do not add alcohol while the liquid is warm.
- Add alcohol: Once cooled, stir in the grain alcohol and vodka.
- Strain & bottle: Remove cinnamon sticks and strain if desired. Carefully ladle the moonshine into sterile mason jars or bottles. Seal tightly.
- Mellow (optional): For best flavor, refrigerate for at least 1 week before serving.
- Shake & serve: Shake before pouring. Serve chilled or over ice.
Notes
Customize it: Swap in more cider for a deeper apple flavor, add whole cloves or star anise for extra spice, or substitute spiced rum for vodka for a cozy twist. For milder moonshine, reduce grain alcohol and up the vodka.
Storage: Store in tightly sealed jars in the fridge for up to 3–6 months. The flavor will mellow and deepen with time.
Nutrition
Calories: 210kcal | Carbohydrates: 29g | Sodium: 6mg | Potassium: 110mg | Sugar: 28g | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 8mg | Iron: 0.1mg