Apple Pie Moonshine
This big-batch apple pie moonshine is flavored with seasonal spices, including cinnamon, nutmeg and cardamom.
Serves64
Makes4 (16-ounce) Mason jars
Prep5 minutes
Cook1 hour
One of my favorite things about the chilly fall weather is the cozy beverages that come with it. Mulled wine, spiced cider, and pumpkin lattes — you name it, I’ll happily drink it. But the ones I like making most are big-batch cocktails I can serve at holiday parties, or, in the case of this moonshine, give as a gift!
That’s right — today I’m sharing a recipe for homemade apple pie liquor, which is super easy to make and packs a flavorful (seasonal) punch. It can be made in large (or small) batches, divided among glass Mason jars, and stored in the refrigerator for up to one month. It also makes for the perfect edible gift to give.
I prefer my apple pie moonshine to incorporate a variety of cozy spices that are often used this time of the year such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom. As it simmers on the stove, it scents the whole kitchen with the most amazing smell. However, remember it’s made with 190-proof grain alcohol, so it should only be served in small quantities. If you want to make a less potent version, simply substitute the grain alcohol for traditional vodka.
Apple pie moonshine is best served in 1-ounce portions for a little holiday toast, or mixed with ginger ale or club soda for a sparkling cocktail.
Apple Pie Moonshine
This big-batch apple pie moonshine is flavored with seasonal spices, including cinnamon, nutmeg and cardamom.
Prep time 5 minutes
Cook time 1 hour
Makes 4 (16-ounce) Mason jars
Serves 64
Nutritional Info
Ingredients
- 4 cups
apple cider or unfiltered apple juice
- 4 cups
apple juice
- 1 cup
packed light brown sugar
- 4
cinnamon sticks
- 5
cardamom pods
- 2
star anise pods
- 1 teaspoon
whole cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon
ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon
ground nutmeg
- 1 cup
(190 proof) grain alcohol
- 1/2 cup
vodka
- 1 tablespoon
vanilla extract
Instructions
Place 4 cups apple cider, 4 cups apple juice, 1 cup packed light brown sugar, 4 cinnamon sticks, 5 cardamom pods, 2 star anise pods, 1 teaspoon whole cloves, 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger, and 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg in a large pot over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil, stirring until evenly combined.
Reduce the heat heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour. Remove from the heat, uncover, and let cool to room temperature.
Using a slotted spoon, scoop out and discard the cinnamon, cardamom, star anise, and cloves.
Stir 1 cup grain alcohol, 1/2 cup vodka, and 1 tablespoon vanilla extract into the moonshine. Transfer into sterilized glass jars and seal tightly. Refrigerate for 1 week and before enjoying.
Recipe Notes
Storage: Refrigerate for up to 1 month.