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Homemade Apple Pie Moonshine

This homemade apple pie moonshine recipe captures the nostalgic essence of traditional apple pie with a bold, grown-up twist. It blends fresh apple cider, warm spices, and a touch of vanilla with smooth spirits to create a comforting, aromatic beverage perfect for sipping, gifting, or seasonal gatherings. Unlike store-bought versions, this recipe uses natural ingredients and is easily adjustable for sweetness and strength, making it a healthier, customizable treat with that signature apple pie flavor.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Drinks / Cocktails
Cuisine American
Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

  • Large stockpot (at least 8-quart capacity)
  • Fine-mesh strainer
  • Large funnel
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Stirring spoon
  • Sterilized glass jars or mason jars with lids (for storing)
  • Cutting board and sharp knife (for slicing apples)
  • Optional: Ice bath setup for faster cooling

Ingredients
  

  • 1 gallon 3.8 liters fresh apple cider (unfiltered preferred)
  • 1 quart 0.9 liters 100% apple juice (no added sugar)
  • 3 cups brown sugar or coconut sugar/monk fruit for healthier version
  • 8 –10 cinnamon sticks
  • 1 tablespoon whole cloves
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
  • 1 vanilla bean split (or 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract)
  • 4 –6 star anise pods optional
  • 3 –4 cups moonshine grain alcohol, or vodka (to taste)
  • 6 –8 fresh apples thinly sliced (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith recommended)

Instructions
 

  • Prepare workspace: Sanitize jars and utensils, and gather all ingredients.
  • Make the base: Combine apple cider, apple juice, and sugar in a large stockpot over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves (8–10 mins).
  • Add spices: Stir in cinnamon sticks, cloves, nutmeg, vanilla bean, star anise, and sliced apples.
  • Simmer: Reduce heat and simmer gently for 60 minutes. Do not boil.
  • Cool completely: Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature (45–180 mins).
  • Add alcohol: Strain out solids. Stir in moonshine, grain alcohol, or vodka.
  • Bottle: Pour into sterilized jars, leaving ½ inch headspace. Seal tightly.
  • Age: Store in a cool, dark place for 2–4 weeks for best flavor. Shake gently before serving.

Notes

Flavor Variations: Try adding orange peel, a splash of maple syrup, or a few allspice berries for a unique twist.
Gift-Giving Tip: Portion into 8 or 16 oz mason jars, add a cinnamon stick, and tie with twine for a charming homemade gift. Include a tag with serving suggestions and aging date.
Alcohol Options: Vodka creates a smoother, milder flavor. Grain alcohol gives it a stronger kick. Adjust quantity based on your desired potency.
Straining Tip: For ultra-clear moonshine, strain again through cheesecloth or a coffee filter after initial infusion.
Serving Idea: Chill jars before serving. Rim glasses with cinnamon sugar for a festive touch.
Shelf Life: When stored in a sealed container in a cool, dark place, the moonshine can last up to 2 years. Flavors peak between 1–6 months.
Cloudiness: Natural cloudiness may occur from apple pectin—this is normal. Just shake gently before serving.