How to Make Apple Pie Moonshine (Easy Recipe + Buying Guide)
There’s something magical about sipping a warm, cozy drink that reminds you of fall — and nothing captures that feeling quite like Apple Pie Moonshine. With its sweet apple flavor, subtle spice kick, and smooth finish, this drink has quickly become a favorite for home mixologists and gift-givers alike.
The best part? You don’t need to be an expert to whip up a batch of this delicious concoction at home. Whether you’re planning to share it at a holiday gathering, bottle it for gifts, or just stock up your bar for those chilly evenings, I’ll walk you step by step through how to make Apple Pie Moonshine, plus recommend some handy tools and ingredients you can easily grab on Amazon.com.
By the end of this guide, you’ll not only have an easy recipe in your back pocket but also a smart buying guide to help you pick the right supplies for your homemade creation.
What Is Apple Pie Moonshine?
Let’s start with the basics. Apple Pie Moonshine isn’t your average cocktail. It’s a flavored spirit made by combining high-proof alcohol with apple juice, apple cider, sugar, and spices like cinnamon and cloves. The result? A smooth, sweet, and spicy drink that tastes just like a slice of apple pie in liquid form.
Originally popular in the southern United States, moonshine was often homemade and unaged. These days, you can find it bottled in stores or make your own version at home. And the good news? You don’t actually need illegal “moonshine” to do it — most people use grain alcohol (like Everclear) or even vodka as the base.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into the step-by-step process, let’s break down the ingredients for this classic recipe. You can easily find all of these at your local grocery store or order online.
- 1 gallon apple cider
- 1 gallon apple juice
- 2 cups white sugar
- 2 cups brown sugar
- 8–10 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tablespoon whole cloves (optional for extra spice)
- 1 bottle (750ml) of Everclear (190 proof grain alcohol) or substitute with high-proof vodka if Everclear isn’t available
- 1 bottle (750ml) of spiced rum (optional for extra depth of flavor)
Pro tip: Make sure you choose high-quality ingredients. The better the cider and spices, the more flavorful your Apple Pie Moonshine will be.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Apple Pie Moonshine
Here comes the fun part. Follow these steps and you’ll have a delicious batch ready to enjoy or gift.
Step 1: Make the Spiced Base
In a large stockpot, pour in the apple cider and apple juice. Add the sugar, cinnamon sticks, and cloves. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar is fully dissolved.
Step 2: Let It Cool
Once the sugar is dissolved and the spices have blended in, remove the pot from heat. Allow the mixture to cool completely — this is important because you don’t want to add alcohol to a hot mixture (it can burn off the alcohol content).
Step 3: Add the Alcohol
Once the mixture is completely cool, stir in the Everclear and spiced rum. Taste test as you go — if you like it sweeter, add a little more brown sugar. If you prefer more spice, throw in another cinnamon stick.
Step 4: Bottle It Up
Using a funnel, carefully pour your Apple Pie Moonshine into mason jars or glass bottles. Seal them tightly and store in the refrigerator. The longer it sits, the more the flavors blend and develop. Ideally, let it rest for at least a week before drinking.
Step 5: Enjoy Responsibly
This drink is smooth and deceptively strong. Always sip responsibly and remember that Everclear packs a serious punch. Serve it chilled, on the rocks, or even warm it up for a cozy, spiked cider vibe.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration is key – Even though the alcohol helps preserve it, keeping your jars in the fridge ensures freshness.
- Shelf life – Properly stored, your Apple Pie Moonshine can last up to 6 months.
- Shake before serving – Some spices and sugars settle at the bottom, so give it a quick shake before pouring.
Perfect Serving Ideas
Want to make your homemade Apple Pie Moonshine even more fun? Here are some creative serving ideas:
- On the rocks: A classic, chilled serving in a mason jar.
- Hot apple toddy: Warm it up and serve in mugs with a cinnamon stick.
- Moonshine float: Pour over vanilla ice cream for a dessert drink.
- Gift jars: Add a ribbon and label to mason jars and give them as holiday gifts.
Buying Guide: Must-Have Tools & Ingredients
If you’re planning to make Apple Pie Moonshine at home, investing in the right tools will make the process smoother (and cleaner). Here are my top picks from Amazon.com with links so you can grab them quickly:
1. Large Stockpot
You’ll need a sturdy stockpot to simmer your cider and spices.
👉 Check this highly rated stockpot on Amazon
2. Mason Jars (for Storage & Gifting)
The classic way to store and serve moonshine. Plus, they make great gifts.
👉 Grab a 12-pack of Mason Jars here
3. Funnel Set
Pouring hot liquid into jars can get messy. A funnel set saves time and keeps things clean.
👉 Shop Funnels on Amazon
4. Cinnamon Sticks & Whole Cloves
Buying in bulk online is often cheaper than the grocery store.
👉 Buy Cinnamon Sticks here
👉 Buy Whole Cloves here
5. Everclear or High-Proof Alcohol
Everclear may not be available in all states, but you can easily find high-proof vodka as an alternative.
👉 Shop Grain Alcohol Options on Amazon
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Apple Pie Moonshine is simple, but here are a few pitfalls to watch for:
- Adding alcohol too soon: Always let the cider mixture cool before adding Everclear, or you’ll cook off the alcohol.
- Making it too sweet: Remember, sugar balances flavor, but too much can overpower the spices. Start with less and add more if needed.
- Not letting it rest: The flavors develop over time. A freshly made batch tastes good, but waiting a week or two makes it amazing.
- Ignoring proof strength: Apple Pie Moonshine can be dangerously smooth. Always know your proof strength before serving.
Is Homemade Apple Pie Moonshine Legal?
Yes! Making Apple Pie Moonshine with store-bought alcohol like Everclear or vodka is perfectly legal. What’s not legal is distilling your own high-proof spirits without a license. As long as you’re using commercially purchased alcohol, you’re in the clear.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a drink that’s cozy, flavorful, and guaranteed to impress friends, learning how to make Apple Pie Moonshine is a must. It’s simple, budget-friendly, and makes for the perfect gift or personal treat.
With the easy recipe above and a few smart buys from Amazon.com, you can be sipping your own homemade batch in no time. Just remember — it’s smooth, but strong — so enjoy responsibly.
So go ahead, stock up on cider, grab those mason jars, and bring a little bit of apple pie magic into your glass. Cheers! 🍏🥃
FAQs About Apple Pie Moonshine
1. How strong is Apple Pie Moonshine?
That depends on the alcohol you use. If you make it with 190-proof Everclear, it can be very strong (close to 70–80 proof after mixing). If you use vodka or rum, the proof will be lower, but it’s still stronger than your average cocktail. Always sip responsibly!
2. How long does homemade Apple Pie Moonshine last?
When stored in tightly sealed mason jars and kept in the refrigerator, your Apple Pie Moonshine can last up to 6 months. The flavor actually gets better the longer it sits, as the spices and alcohol blend together.
3. Can I make Apple Pie Moonshine without Everclear?
Yes, definitely. Everclear is strong, but you can substitute it with high-proof vodka or even use spiced rum alone for a milder version. It will still be delicious, just not as potent.
4. Do I need to refrigerate Apple Pie Moonshine?
Yes, refrigeration is recommended. Even though alcohol acts as a preservative, keeping it in the fridge ensures maximum freshness and flavor. Plus, it tastes better chilled!