Apple Pie Moonshine Recipe Guide: Sweet, Smooth & Potent

Craving something that blends nostalgia with a bold kick? This apple pie moonshine recipe is the answer. A delicious fusion of apple cider, cinnamon, and high-proof spirits, it delivers sweet warmth in every sip. Whether you’re prepping for a fall gathering, holiday party, or just want a cozy drink for chilly nights, homemade apple pie moonshine brings flavor and fun to your glass.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything: how to make it, store it, serve it, and even how to craft your own creative versions. From first-timers to seasoned crafters, you’ll find pro-level tips and flavor hacks that make a difference.

Learn more about comfort flavors in desserts from Pumpkin Banana Loaf Recipe—a great complement to your jar of moonshine.

Let’s kick things off by understanding why this sweet, spiced spirit has taken the DIY world by storm.

Print

Apple Pie Moonshine Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Print Recipe

This apple pie moonshine recipe delivers a smooth, sweet, and spiced flavor perfect for fall and holiday gatherings. Easy to make, delicious to sip, and fun to gift!

• Total Time: PT1H
• Yield: 12 servings

Ingredients

– 1 gallon apple cider

– 1 gallon apple juice

– 1½ cups white sugar

– 1½ cups brown sugar

– 6–8 cinnamon sticks

– 1 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)

– 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract

– 1–2 bottles high-proof alcohol (Everclear or vodka)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

– In a large stockpot, combine apple juice, apple cider, sugars, cinnamon sticks, and nutmeg. Stir over medium-high heat until sugar dissolves.

– Reduce heat and let the mixture simmer gently for 30 to 45 minutes to infuse the spices.

– Remove from heat and allow the liquid to cool completely before adding alcohol.

– Stir in high-proof alcohol and vanilla extract after cooling. Mix well.

– Use a cheesecloth or strainer to remove solids. Pour into mason jars or glass bottles and seal tightly.

Notes

This apple pie moonshine is best aged for 2 to 4 weeks to allow the flavors to fully develop.

Always cool your mixture completely before adding alcohol, and store in sterilized mason jars for the best shelf life.

Enjoy chilled, warmed, or mixed into a cocktail.

• Author: eppicrecipes.com
• Prep Time: PT15M
• Cook Time: PT45M
• Category: Beverage
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 glass (4 oz)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 26g
• Sodium: 5mg
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0mg
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0g

Introduction to Apple Pie Moonshine

What is Apple Pie Moonshine?

Apple pie moonshine is a flavored alcoholic beverage made by combining apple cider, apple juice, sugar, cinnamon, and grain alcohol (like Everclear or vodka). The result is a smooth, sweet, spicy drink that tastes just like Grandma’s apple pie—with a bold boozy twist. This homemade liquor became a backyard favorite because it’s easy to make, tastes amazing, and stores well for long periods.

Despite the name, today’s versions don’t require illegal distillation. You’re not running a hidden still in the woods—just blending store-bought ingredients to create a flavored infusion. The term “moonshine” today mostly refers to the style, not the legality.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try for Flavor & Fun

Why does this recipe stand out? Simple: flavor, nostalgia, and versatility. Imagine sipping on something that combines the warmth of cinnamon, the sweetness of apples, and the rich character of spiced alcohol. It’s not just a drink—it’s a vibe.

Plus, it makes a great gift. Poured into a mason jar and sealed with a ribbon, apple pie moonshine becomes a homemade holiday or birthday present people actually want. It’s also perfect for tailgates, bonfires, and cozy evenings by the fire.

Most importantly? It’s easy. With just a few ingredients and a little patience, you can create a batch that rivals anything sold in stores.

Apple Pie Moonshine Recipe Essentials

Main Ingredients You’ll Need (Cinnamon, Apple Juice, etc.)

To make a truly flavorful apple pie moonshine recipe, you’ll need a well-balanced mix of sweet, spicy, and strong. Below are the core ingredients that give this drink its signature warm and delicious character:

Tips:

• Use real apple cider, not sparkling or carbonated versions.
• Choose high-proof alcohol (190-proof if using Everclear) for the best infusion and longevity.
• Consider adding cloves or allspice if you prefer a more complex, spiced profile.

These ingredients are pantry staples during the fall and winter, making it easy to whip up a batch without a trip to a specialty store.

Tools & Equipment: From Mason Jars to Cheesecloth

Crafting a smooth apple pie moonshine experience isn’t just about what goes into the pot—your tools matter too. Using the right equipment ensures safety, cleanliness, and quality.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Large stockpot (at least 8 quarts): For simmering your base mixture
• Glass measuring cup: Ensures accurate liquid portions
• Funnel: Essential for pouring into jars without spills
• Ladle: Makes transferring liquid easier
• Cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer: For straining out spices and solids
• Mason jars with lids: For storing and aging the moonshine
• Labels and marker: To record batch dates and flavor notes

Make sure your jars and lids are sterilized before filling. This helps preserve the drink and reduces the chance of contamination.

You can find most of these items in any kitchen, but if you’re planning on making moonshine regularly, it’s worth investing in airtight, reusable glass containers for better preservation.

How to Make Apple Pie Moonshine from Scratch

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Making your own apple pie moonshine recipe at home isn’t just easy—it’s actually fun. The process involves simmering a sweet-spiced base and blending it with strong alcohol. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you nail it.

Step 1: Combine Juices and Spices

In a large stockpot, add the following:

• 1 gallon apple cider
• 1 gallon apple juice
• 1½ cups white sugar
• 1½ cups brown sugar
• 6–8 cinnamon sticks
• 1 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)

Turn the heat to medium-high and stir until all sugars dissolve.

Step 2: Simmer the Mixture

Once it starts to steam but not boil, lower the heat. Let it simmer gently for about 30 to 45 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse the liquid.

Step 3: Cool the Mixture Completely

This is crucial. Remove the pot from heat and allow the mixture to cool completely to room temperature. Never add alcohol to hot liquid—it can cause evaporation or even dangerous fumes.

Step 4: Add the Alcohol

Once the base has cooled, pour in:

• 1 to 2 bottles (750ml each) of Everclear, vodka, or a mix of both.

Stir in 1 tablespoon of pure vanilla extract for smoothness. Mix well to ensure even blending.

Step 5: Strain and Bottle

Using a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer, pour the liquid into mason jars or glass bottles. Discard any solid spices.

Seal the jars tightly and label them with the date.

Now you’ve got yourself a batch of homemade apple pie moonshine ready to enjoy—or better yet, to let age for enhanced flavor.

Important Safety Tips for Alcohol Infusion

While making a flavored liquor at home is legal (as long as you’re not distilling alcohol), there are a few precautions you should never skip:

• Never heat alcohol directly. Always let your cider base cool completely before mixing in spirits.
• Store in a cool, dark place to avoid light damage and maintain flavor.
• Use high-proof alcohol if you plan on aging the drink for more than a month.
• Label your jars with alcohol content estimates, especially if gifting or serving to others.

Check out cozy combinations in Condensed Milk Recipes for ideas on creamy dessert pairings that go well with a shot of moonshine.

How to Store and Preserve Your Moonshine

Refrigeration Tips & Longevity

A common question with any apple pie moonshine recipe is: How long will it last? Fortunately, when stored properly, this homemade spirit can last for up to 6 months or more—sometimes even longer.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Refrigerate after opening: Once you crack open a jar, place it in the refrigerator. The sugars and juices in the mix can ferment or spoil if left at room temperature for too long.
• Before opening: If your jars are tightly sealed and stored in a cool, dark place, they don’t have to be refrigerated—but doing so can help maintain a consistent flavor.
• Shake before serving: Natural sediment from spices can settle. A quick shake brings everything back together.
• Watch for changes: If you see any cloudiness, fizzing, or off-smells, toss the jar. While rare, spoilage can happen—especially if the mixture wasn’t cooled fully before bottling.

Proper refrigeration will keep the apple and spice notes crisp, while preserving the smooth, boozy kick that makes this recipe a fan favorite.

Best Containers for Storing Apple Pie Moonshine

Picking the right container is more important than most think. Not all jars are created equal, especially when dealing with high-proof alcohol and sugary ingredients.

Top container choices:

Avoid:

• Plastic containers – They can leach chemicals and absorb flavors
• Metal lids without liners – May corrode over time from alcohol exposure

Be sure to sterilize your storage containers with hot water or a vinegar solution before each use. This kills bacteria and extends shelf life.

Creative Variations of Apple Pie Moonshine

Sugar-Free & Low-Carb Versions

Love the idea of sipping spiced apple goodness but want to skip the sugar spike? You’re not alone. There are several ways to create a sugar-free apple pie moonshine recipe that still delivers full flavor.

Simple swaps:

• Use apple-flavored herbal tea instead of juice for a low-carb base.
• Replace sugar with erythritol or monk fruit sweetener—both dissolve well in hot liquid.
• Choose unsweetened apple cider for a smoother, less syrupy finish.

To compensate for the lack of sweetness, enhance the flavor with extra vanilla extract, a touch more cinnamon, and apple extract for that bold orchard punch.

This version is perfect for keto followers, diabetics, or anyone watching their sugar intake—without losing that warm fall flavor we all crave.

Spiced or Bourbon-Enhanced Alternatives

Want to elevate your moonshine into a more complex, cocktail-ready drink? These variations on the basic apple pie moonshine recipe pack in character and depth.

1. Bourbon Apple Pie Moonshine

• Swap half the Everclear or vodka with bourbon.
• Adds smoky, oaky flavor that pairs beautifully with apple and cinnamon.

2. Spiced Citrus Moonshine

• Add orange zest and whole cloves to the apple juice simmer.
• Gives a holiday punch vibe, perfect for cold evenings.

3. Caramel Apple Moonshine

• Stir in ½ cup caramel syrup or a sugar-free caramel extract.
• Tastes just like those fairground treats in a jar.

4. Fireball Infused

• Replace a portion of your alcohol with Fireball Cinnamon Whisky.
• For the daring palate—spicy, sweet, and smooth.

Each of these variations can be made using the same base method, just with adjusted ingredients. Always make sure to cool the base completely before adding alcohol, especially with liquors that already have added sugars or flavorings.

Don’t miss our twist on traditions in Sugar Plum Recipe—another holiday-ready treat that pairs well with moonshine’s cozy character.

Serving Apple Pie Moonshine Like a Pro

Chilled, Warmed, or Mixed – What’s Best?

One of the best things about a great apple pie moonshine recipe is its versatility. Whether you serve it hot or cold, this spiced spirit always delivers a satisfying sip. Here’s how to serve it right depending on the occasion.

1. Chilled

• Best for: Summer nights, casual gatherings
• How: Store your moonshine in the fridge, then serve it cold in a shot glass or over ice
• Flavor note: Chilling enhances sweetness and dulls some of the alcohol’s bite, making it smoother

2. Warmed

• Best for: Holiday parties, winter evenings
• How: Gently warm a serving on the stovetop or microwave (do NOT boil). Add a cinnamon stick for flair.
• Flavor note: Warming brings out the spices and enhances aroma—like liquid pie in a cup

3. Mixed Into a Cocktail

• Best for: Tailgates, celebrations, brunches
• Mixers to try:
  • Cream soda
  • Apple-flavored sparkling water
  • Ginger beer
  • Fireball whisky
  • Vanilla cream liqueur

With these mix-ins, you turn your basic moonshine into a signature cocktail everyone will remember.

Perfect Pairings: Snacks & Meals That Work Well

If you’re sipping on moonshine, why not pair it with the right flavors to match? A good apple pie moonshine recipe deserves some equally impressive sidekicks.

Sweet Pairings

• Mini apple tarts
• Snickerdoodle cookies
• Pumpkin loaf (try it with this Pumpkin Banana Loaf Recipe if you missed it earlier)
• Cheesecake bites

Savory Pairings

• Sharp cheddar cheese
• Bacon-wrapped dates
• Spiced nuts
• Pulled pork sliders

These combinations balance the sweetness and spice of your moonshine while elevating the overall tasting experience.

Apple Pie Moonshine Cocktails & Mixers

Best Mix-ins: From Cream Soda to Fireball

Sure, drinking apple pie moonshine straight is bold and delicious, but mixing it into cocktails takes things to the next level. With the right additions, you can create drinks that taste like autumn in a glass—or even dessert in liquid form.

Here are some tried-and-true mixers that complement the sweet and spiced profile of your moonshine:

Start with a 1:1 ratio of moonshine to mixer, then adjust to your taste. Add garnishes like cinnamon sticks, apple slices, or nutmeg on top for presentation.

Bar-Style Recipes for Parties & Events

Hosting an event? These quick apple pie moonshine cocktails will wow your guests while keeping prep minimal.

1. Moonshine Mule

• 2 oz apple pie moonshine
• 4 oz ginger beer
• Squeeze of lime
• Serve in a copper mug over ice

2. Apple Pie Float

• 2 oz apple pie moonshine
• 3 oz cream soda
• Scoop of vanilla ice cream
• Garnish with caramel drizzle

3. Spiced Orchard Punch (Party Bowl)

• 2 cups apple pie moonshine
• 1 bottle sparkling apple cider
• 1 cup bourbon
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• Cinnamon sticks and apple slices for garnish
• Serve chilled over ice

4. Cozy Campfire Shot

• 1 oz apple pie moonshine
• 1 oz bourbon cream
• Sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on the rim

These easy-to-make recipes are perfect for backyard barbecues, Friendsgiving dinners, or anytime you want a standout cocktail. They not only highlight your apple pie moonshine recipe, but turn it into an event centerpiece.

Don’t miss our twist on traditions in Sugar Plum Recipe—ideal for serving alongside a festive punch or warm cinnamon drink at your next holiday party.

Homemade Moonshine Tips & Hacks

Flavor-Boosting Secrets

Want to take your apple pie moonshine recipe from great to unforgettable? These tips will help you enhance taste and aroma without adding unnecessary steps.

1. Let It Age

While your moonshine is ready to drink the day it’s made, aging it for at least 2 weeks improves the flavor significantly.

• Store in a cool, dark place
• Shake gently every few days to keep spices suspended
• Label with the date you bottled it

The longer it sits, the smoother and more blended the flavors become. Many say peak flavor hits between 3–6 weeks.

2. Toast Your Spices

Lightly toasting cinnamon sticks and cloves in a dry pan before adding them to the juice can bring out deeper, richer flavors. Let them cool before tossing them into the pot.

3. Infuse with Dried Fruits

Add dried apple rings, orange peel, or even a few raisins to your simmer pot. These additions boost body and complexity, especially in aged moonshine.

4. Use Whole Spices Over Ground

Whole spices like cinnamon sticks and cloves extract flavor slowly and cleanly. Ground spices tend to settle and cloud your mix—making it harder to strain.

5. Add Vanilla Bean

Instead of extract, split a vanilla bean pod and simmer it with the juice mixture. It adds richness and natural sweetness with a subtle aromatic finish.

How to Seal Jars for Longer Shelf Life

Proper sealing is more than just a lid—it’s a preservation method. Here’s how to keep your moonshine fresher, longer:

If you’re gifting the jars or want longer preservation, consider a water bath method:

• Submerge filled and closed jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes
• Remove and cool
• You’ll often hear the “pop” of the vacuum seal—a good sign it’s airtight

These extra steps help your apple pie moonshine stay tasty and safe for months, even unrefrigerated (though refrigeration is always safest after opening).

Explore seasonal vibes in Best Moose Farts Recipe—these no-bake treats are an ideal bite-sized dessert to serve with a moonshine shooter.

Apple Pie Moonshine FAQs Answered

Conclusion: Crafting the Best Apple Pie Moonshine at Home

If you’ve made it this far, you now know how easy—and rewarding—it is to master a delicious, smooth, and fully customized apple pie moonshine recipe. From understanding the essential ingredients to flavor-boosting tricks and cocktail ideas, this guide has armed you with everything you need to create a drink that’s as memorable as it is mouthwatering.

Whether you prefer it straight, mixed with cream soda, or aged for a deeper bite, homemade moonshine lets you control every aspect of the experience. It’s not just a drink—it’s a tradition in a jar, one you can share with friends or savor solo by the fire.

So, gather your apples, grab a bottle of Everclear, and start brewing your own slice of fall-in-a-glass. And remember—aging it a little might just make it the best sip of the season.

Don’t miss our twist on traditions in Sugar Plum Recipe—the perfect sweet bite to pair with your next batch of apple pie moonshine.