
Yields:
6 serving(s)
Prep Time:
10 mins
Total Time:
1 hr 15 mins
Cal/Serv:
416
The prohibition may be over, but we still plan on making our moonshine 😉. This fall-flavored version is spiced, delicious, and boozy. To reach maximum apple pie flavor, we simmered apple juice and apple cider simmered with warm spices for the base of the drink. A combination of grain alcohol and vodka makes this drink more palatable and a little less dangerous but don't be fooled—these babies are STRONG. Double or triple the recipe to please everyone at your party, but we strongly suggest sippin’ this fall drink slowly. Keep reading for moonshine 101:
What is moonshine?
Moonshine is a clear, unaged whiskey made from mashed barley or corn. It earned its name from the fact that moonshiners had to produce it under the cover of night to avoid detection. Making moonshine at home without a distillers license is 100% illegal, but that's not what we're going for with this. Here, the term moonshine is meant to indicate the strength of these drinks, which we mimic using 190-proof grain alcohol like Everclear.
Variations.
If you want to switch things up here, try swapping out the plain vodka for a flavored variety! Try vanilla, caramel, cinnamon, or even honey vodka to add an extra layer of delicious fall flavor. Not feeling vodka? Spiced rum or cinnamon whiskey would also make for excellent choices.
How long does moonshine last?
Pure moonshine and Everclear are distilled with no sugar and are totally shelf stable. However, we've added a ton of sugar here, meaning it can and will go bad if left at room temperature for too long. The best place to store it is in a jar with a secure lid in the refrigerator for up to 3 months. Take note that the apple flavor will get stronger the longer it sits!
Have you made this yet? Let us know how it went in the comments below!
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Ingredients
- 4 cups
apple juice
- 4 cups
apple cider
- 3/4 cup
granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup
packed brown sugar
- 2
cinnamon sticks
- 1/2 tsp.
ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp.
allspice
- 3/4 cup
190 proof grain alcohol
- 3/4 cup
vodka
Directions
- Step 1In a large pot over medium-high heat, combine apple juice, cider, sugars, cinnamon sticks, and spices. Bring to a simmer, then cover pot with lid and reduce heat to medium-low.
- Step 2Simmer for 1 hour then remove from heat and let cool.
- Step 3Remove cinnamon sticks and stir in grain alcohol and vodka. Transfer to jars or bottles.
- Step 4Shake well before serving.
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