Apple Pie Moonshine Recipe: A Sweet and Spiced Delight
Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that blends the comforting flavors of apple pie with the kick of moonshine? This recipe will guide you through creating a truly unique and delicious alcoholic beverage perfect for autumn gatherings or a cozy night in. This recipe is intended for adults only and should be consumed responsibly.
Ingredients:
This recipe yields approximately 1 gallon of moonshine. Adjust quantities as needed.
- For the Apple Pie Filling:
- 8 cups peeled, cored, and sliced apples (Granny Smith or a mix of tart and sweet varieties recommended)
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons allspice
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ cup lemon juice
- For the Moonshine:
- 1 gallon high-quality neutral grain spirit (moonshine) – ensure it's at least 100 proof for proper preservation
- 1 (750ml) bottle of apple cider (optional, adds more apple flavor)
Instructions:
Making the Apple Pie Filling:
- In a large saucepan, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, allspice, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and lemon juice.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the liquid has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Remove from heat and let the filling cool completely. This is crucial; adding hot filling to your moonshine can lead to unwanted cloudiness or spoilage.
Combining and Aging the Moonshine:
- Once the apple pie filling is completely cool, carefully transfer it to a large glass jar or food-grade container.
- Add the gallon of moonshine (and optional apple cider) to the jar. Stir gently to combine. Avoid vigorous shaking.
- Seal the jar tightly with an airtight lid.
- Store the moonshine in a cool, dark place for at least 4-6 weeks, allowing the flavors to meld and mature. The longer it ages, the smoother and more complex the taste will become. You can check the flavor after 4 weeks and continue aging based on your preference.
Bottling and Serving:
- After the aging period, carefully strain the moonshine through cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove any solids.
- Bottle the finished moonshine into clean, sterilized bottles.
- Store in a cool, dark place.
Tips for Success:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better your moonshine will taste.
- Adjust sweetness to your liking: If you prefer a sweeter moonshine, add more sugar to the apple pie filling.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spice amounts to create your own unique flavor profile. A dash of cardamom or a pinch of star anise could add interesting complexity.
- Proper sanitation is key: Ensure all your equipment and containers are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized to prevent unwanted bacteria or mold growth.
Important Note: Always drink responsibly. This recipe produces a potent alcoholic beverage. Never operate machinery or drive after consuming.
This Apple Pie Moonshine recipe is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Enjoy responsibly! Remember to always check your local laws and regulations regarding the production and consumption of alcoholic beverages.