You’ve had apple pie. You’ve had moonshine. But have you ever had them combined in a way that makes you question all your life choices?
This isn’t your grandma’s dessert—unless your grandma spikes her pies with enough kick to make a mule blush. Apple pie moonshine is the ultimate party trick, holiday gift, or “I survived Monday” reward. And the best part?
You don’t need a still, a beard, or a questionable relationship with the law to make it. Ready to turn apples into liquid gold? Let’s go.
Table of Contents
Why This Recipe Slaps
This isn’t just moonshine with a fancy name.
The magic happens when fresh apple cider, warm spices, and a hint of vanilla collide with high-proof alcohol. It tastes like autumn in a jar but drinks like a bonfire night. Plus, it’s stupidly easy to make—no distilling required.
Whether you’re impressing friends or bribing in-laws, this recipe delivers every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 gallon apple cider (the good stuff, not the filtered water pretending to be cider)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (because we’re not monsters)
- 1 cup brown sugar (for that caramel depth)
- 4 cinnamon sticks (or 2 if you’re scared of flavor)
- 1 tsp whole cloves (don’t sub ground—trust me)
- 1 tsp nutmeg (freshly grated if you’re fancy)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (the real deal, not imitation)
- 750 ml Everclear or high-proof vodka (190-proof for tradition, 80-proof for sanity)
- Optional: Apple slices or extra cinnamon sticks for garnish
How to Make Apple Pie Moonshine (Step-by-Step)
- Simmer the cider and sugars. In a large pot, combine apple cider, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Heat over medium until the sugars dissolve, stirring occasionally. Don’t boil it—just let it get friendly.
- Add the spices. Toss in cinnamon sticks, cloves, and nutmeg.
Let it simmer for 20 minutes on low heat. Your kitchen should now smell like a Yankee Candle store.
- Cool it down. Remove the pot from heat and let it cool to room temperature. Patience is a virtue, but if you’re impatient, an ice bath works (just don’t dilute it).
- Strain and spike. Fish out the cinnamon sticks and cloves (unless you like surprises).
Stir in vanilla extract and your alcohol of choice. Congrats, you just made moonshine.
- Bottle it. Pour into sterilized mason jars or swing-top bottles. Add apple slices or extra cinnamon sticks if you’re Instagramming this.
Storage: Keep It Fresh (Or Don’t)
Store your moonshine in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months.
The alcohol preserves it, but let’s be real—it won’t last that long. Refrigerate if you added fresh fruit (drink within 2 weeks). Freezing?
Bad idea. You’ll dilute the magic.
Why This Recipe Wins
Besides being delicious? It’s versatile.
Serve it chilled, hot, or mixed into cocktails. It’s also a crowd-pleaser—unless your crowd hates joy. The sugar and spices mask the alcohol burn, making it dangerously smooth.
FYI, that’s both a pro and a con.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Boiling the alcohol. Heat = evaporated booze. Add it after cooling.
- Using ground cloves. They turn your moonshine into murky swamp water.
- Skipping the strain. Nobody likes a mouthful of cloves. Unless you do.
No judgment.
- Over-sweetening. Taste before bottling. You can add more sugar, but you can’t take it out.
Alternatives for the Rebellious
No Everclear? Use vodka, bourbon, or rum for a different kick.
Hate cloves? Swap in allspice or cardamom. For a non-alcoholic version (why?), simmer everything but the booze and call it spiced cider.
It’s your kitchen—break the rules.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought apple juice instead of cider?
Technically, yes. But cider has more flavor and body. If you use juice, add extra spices to compensate.
IMO, it’s worth hunting down real cider.
How strong is this moonshine?
Depends on your alcohol. Everclear (190-proof) makes it ~40% ABV after dilution. Vodka (80-proof) lands around 20%.
Math is hard, but moderation is harder.
Can I age this like real moonshine?
Sure, if you want. The flavors meld better after a week or two. But good luck waiting that long.
Why does my moonshine taste bitter?
You probably overdid the cloves or nutmeg.
Or you boiled the alcohol. Or the universe hates you. Try adjusting spices next time.
Final Thoughts
Apple pie moonshine is the love child of dessert and a good time.
It’s easy, customizable, and guaranteed to make you the hero of any gathering (or solo Tuesday night). Follow the steps, avoid the pitfalls, and enjoy responsibly—or don’t. We’re not your mom.
