There’s nothing quite like the warm, comforting flavors of apple pie – except perhaps enjoying those same flavors in a delicious homemade apple pie moonshine recipe that can be shared with friends and family. This beloved concoction has earned a stellar reputation with a 4.5-star rating across 77 reviews, and for good reason. It truly tastes like apple pie in a jar, but as many enthusiasts warn, it “packs a punch” if you’re not careful. The beauty of this apple pie moonshine recipe is that it continues to improve with time in the refrigerator, making it an excellent option for advance preparation or gift-giving.
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The Perfect Apple Pie Moonshine Recipe: Ingredients and Preparation
One of the most appealing aspects of this apple pie moonshine recipe is its straightforward preparation process. Despite its complex flavors, it requires minimal active time in the kitchen. Here’s everything you need to know before getting started:
Preparation Metrics:
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 hour
- Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 2.5 gallons (9.5 liters)
- Servings: 100

Ingredients Table
Quantity | Ingredient |
---|---|
1 gallon | Apple juice |
1 gallon | Apple cider |
2 cups | White sugar |
2 cups | Brown sugar |
4+ sticks | Cinnamon sticks |
1 pinch | Apple pie spice |
750 ml | 190-proof grain alcohol (Everclear) |
750 ml | Vodka |
Many enthusiasts of this apple pie moonshine recipe suggest personalizing the basic formula. One reviewer mentioned using approximately 16 cinnamon sticks for a 5-gallon batch, while another replaced the vodka with Fireball whiskey for an extra cinnamon kick. Some find the full 4 cups of sugar excessive, though the end result remains “solid” according to feedback. For those who prefer a less sweet version, consider reducing the sugar content slightly.
Step-by-Step Apple Pie Moonshine Recipe Instructions
Creating this delicious apple pie moonshine recipe involves just a few straightforward steps. The process is simple enough for beginners while still producing impressive results that will have everyone asking for your secret formula.
- Gather all ingredients – Having everything measured and ready will streamline the cooking process.
- Combine the non-alcoholic ingredients – In a large pot, mix the apple juice, apple cider, white sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, and apple pie spice.
- Heat the mixture – Bring the liquid almost to a boil, then cover the pot.
- Simmer gently – Reduce heat and let simmer for approximately 1 hour to infuse all the flavors.
- Cool completely – Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool entirely. This step is crucial before adding alcohol.
- Add the alcohol – Once cooled, stir in the grain alcohol and vodka.
- Remove cinnamon sticks – Take out the used cinnamon sticks from the liquid.
- Bottle the moonshine – Transfer your apple pie moonshine recipe creation into clean glass jars or bottles.
- Refrigerate – Store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
For optimal flavor development, many enthusiasts recommend placing a fresh cinnamon stick in each storage jar and allowing the mixture to mature for at least a month before consuming. This patience will be rewarded with a smoother, more integrated flavor profile that truly captures the essence of apple pie in liquid form.
Serving and Storage Tips for Your Apple Pie Moonshine Recipe
Storage Options Table
Container Type | Advantages | Recommended Storage Time |
---|---|---|
Mason jars (20 oz) | Traditional look, good seal, gift-ready | 3+ months refrigerated |
Empty juice/cider jugs | Economical, larger volume | 6+ months refrigerated |
Empty wine bottles | Elegant presentation, good for gifts | 3+ months refrigerated |
Spirit bottles | Professional look, secure caps | 6+ months refrigerated |
The apple pie moonshine recipe creates a beverage that improves significantly with aging. While it can be consumed immediately after preparation, allowing it to rest for at least 3-4 weeks in the refrigerator will produce a noticeably smoother and more flavorful result. Many enthusiasts report that their batches continue improving for months, with some claiming the best flavor develops after 6 months of storage.
When serving this apple pie moonshine recipe creation, remember that despite its sweet, dessert-like flavor profile, it contains significant alcohol content. The combination of 190-proof grain alcohol and vodka creates a potent mixture that should be enjoyed responsibly. Consider serving in small portions, perhaps as a digestif after dinner or as a special treat during holiday gatherings.
For gift-giving, many find that placing a fresh cinnamon stick in each jar adds both visual appeal and continuing flavor development. Decorative labels and ribbons can transform these jars into thoughtful, handcrafted presents perfect for holidays, housewarming parties, or special celebrations.
One reviewer noted they mixed their homemade apple pie moonshine 50/50 in pint jars with homemade “White Lightning,” creating what they called their “special jars” that were particularly “hot” (strong). This demonstrates the versatility of this base recipe, which can be adjusted to suit individual preferences for strength and sweetness.
Nutritional Information and Considerations
For those interested in the nutritional profile of this apple pie moonshine recipe, each serving (based on 100 servings per batch) contains approximately:
- Calories: 104
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Sodium: 7mg (0% Daily Value)
- Total Carbohydrate: 17g (6% Daily Value)
- Dietary Fiber: 0g (0% Daily Value)
- Total Sugars: 16g
- Vitamin C: 0mg (0% Daily Value)
- Calcium: 6mg (0% Daily Value)
- Iron: 0mg (1% Daily Value)
- Potassium: 52mg (1% Daily Value)
It’s worth noting that these values are estimates based on available data, and nutritional information may not be comprehensive for all ingredients. Additionally, the values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Those on medically restrictive diets should consult with their healthcare provider or dietitian before consuming this apple pie moonshine recipe.
The beauty of making your own apple pie moonshine recipe at home is the ability to control the quality of ingredients and adjust flavors to your preference. Whether you’re creating it for personal enjoyment or as gifts for friends and family, this recipe creates a memorable treat that captures the essence of comfort and celebration in every sip. Just remember – despite its sweet, approachable flavor, this concoction packs a serious punch and should be enjoyed responsibly and in moderation.
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