Hey there, cocktail enthusiast! Craving a sip of Apple Pie Moonshine that tastes like a warm slice of apple pie in a glass? This homemade recipe blends sweet apple cider, warm spices, and a kick of moonshine for a festive drink perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights by the fire. I made a batch for a Thanksgiving party, and it went faster than my cousin’s bad dance moves! Ready in about an hour (plus cooling), it’s an easy, crowd pleasing treat for any occasion. Let’s get mixing!

What is Apple Pie Moonshine?

Apple Pie Moonshine is a homemade infused liquor that combines the sweet, tart flavors of apple cider with warm spices and high proof alcohol, mimicking the taste of apple pie. It’s a Southern inspired drink often enjoyed at fall gatherings or given as a festive gift. I first tasted it at a friend’s bonfire, and this recipe captures that cozy, nostalgic vibe!

Why You’ll Love This Apple Pie Moonshine

What makes this Apple Pie Moonshine so irresistible? Its sweet, spicy, apple packed flavor delivers a boozy twist on classic fall desserts, perfect for sipping or gifting. The easy prep and forgiving recipe make it a hit for beginners or busy hosts. I served this at a fall party, and it had everyone toasting to seconds before the night was over!

Ingredients for Easy Apple Pie Moonshine

Here’s what you need for this cozy drink (makes about 8 quarts):

Base:
- 1 gallon apple cider
- 1 quart apple juice
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
Spices:
- 4 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tsp whole cloves
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ tsp allspice berries
Alcohol:
- 750 ml high proof grain alcohol (like Everclear, 190 proof)
- 750 ml vodka (80 proof)
For Bottling:
- 8 quart sized mason jars with lids, sterilized

Substitutions: Use unfiltered apple juice for a richer flavor or replace grain alcohol with more vodka for a lower proof version. FYI, maple syrup can swap for brown sugar for a unique twist!

How to Make Apple Pie Moonshine

Prepare the Base

Combine apple cider, apple juice, brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a large stockpot. Stir over medium heat until the sugars dissolve completely.

Add the Spices

Add cinnamon sticks, cloves, nutmeg, and allspice berries to the pot. This infuses the liquid with warm, cozy flavors reminiscent of apple pie.

Simmer the Mixture

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, and let it cook for 30 minutes to meld the flavors. Avoid boiling to preserve the apple’s natural sweetness.

Cool and Add Alcohol

Remove from heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature, about 1 hour. Stir in the grain alcohol and vodka to create the boozy kick.

Bottle and Store

Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into sterilized mason jars, discarding the spices. Seal tightly and store in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks for best flavor.

Tips for Perfecting Your Apple Pie Moonshine

Want your Apple Pie Moonshine to be a total crowd pleaser? Use fresh, high quality apple cider for a vibrant flavor, and let the mixture sit for at least two weeks to mellow the alcohol’s bite. Shake the jars gently every few days to ensure the flavors blend evenly.

Pro Tip: Balance the Sweetness

Taste the cider mixture before adding alcohol to ensure the sweetness isn’t overpowering; adjust with a splash of apple juice if too sweet. I learned this after a batch turned out syrupy, and now I always check for that perfect apple pie balance.

Can You Use Store Bought Moonshine?

Yes, store bought moonshine (around 100 proof) works great if high proof grain alcohol isn’t available! Ensure it’s neutral flavored to avoid clashing with the apple and spices; I’ve used local moonshine for a smoother sip, and it’s just as delicious.

Pro Tip: Infuse for Extra Flavor

Let the moonshine sit for 4 to 6 weeks for deeper, richer flavors, as the spices continue to meld over time. I tried this for a holiday gift batch, and the extra aging made it taste like a bakery in a jar.

Customizing Your Apple Pie Moonshine

Make this drink your own! Add a vanilla bean to the simmering mixture for a creamy, dessert like note; I tried this for a fall party, and it was a huge hit. For a spiced twist, toss in a star anise pod during simmering for a subtle licorice kick.

Making a Lower Alcohol Version

Want a lighter sip? Reduce the grain alcohol to 500 ml and increase vodka to 1 liter for a lower proof moonshine that’s still flavorful. I made this for a friend who prefers milder drinks, and it was just as cozy without the strong kick.

Choosing the Best Ingredients for Apple Pie Moonshine

Choose fresh, unfiltered apple cider for a rich, authentic apple flavor; avoid overly processed versions with additives. High quality spices like whole cinnamon sticks and cloves ensure a bold, aromatic infusion; I always source fresh spices for the best taste.

How to Store Apple Pie Moonshine

Store sealed mason jars in a cool, dark place like a pantry for up to a year to maintain flavor. Once opened, keep refrigerated and consume within 3 months for the best taste.

Can You Age Apple Pie Moonshine?

Absolutely, aging enhances the flavor! Let the sealed jars sit for 2 to 6 months in a cool, dark place to let the spices and apple flavors deepen; I aged a batch for Christmas, and it was smooth and festive.

FAQs About Apple Pie Moonshine Recipe

Got questions? Here are answers to real life queries!

Can I use apple juice instead of cider?
Yes, apple juice works, but choose unfiltered, 100% juice for a richer flavor closer to cider. I’ve used juice in a pinch, and it still makes a tasty moonshine with a slightly lighter taste.
How do I make it less sweet?
Reduce the brown sugar to ½ cup and skip the granulated sugar for a less sweet, more tart moonshine. I did this for a friend who prefers savory drinks, and it balanced the flavors perfectly.
Can I serve it right after making it?
You can, but letting it sit for at least 2 weeks mellows the alcohol and enhances the apple pie flavor. I served a fresh batch once, and waiting a bit made the next one taste even better.
Is it safe to make moonshine at home?
This recipe uses store bought alcohol, so it’s safe as long as you follow proper sterilization and storage practices. I always sterilize my jars and keep everything clean to ensure a safe, delicious batch.

How to Serve Apple Pie Moonshine

Serve chilled or at room temperature in small shot glasses for sipping, or mix into cocktails like a spiked cider. Pair with apple slices, cheese, or shortbread cookies for a cozy, fall inspired spread.

Nutritional Info for Apple Pie Moonshine

Per serving (2 oz):

Calories: 150 kcal
Protein: 0g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 0g
Sugars: 11g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Source: USDA Food Database (2025). Values are approximate. The cider and sugars provide a sweet base, while alcohol adds calories.

Let’s Wrap It Up

There you have it: an Apple Pie Moonshine recipe that’s cozy, boozy, and ready in about an hour (plus aging). Perfect for fall gatherings, holiday gifts, or sipping by the fire, its sweet spicy flavor makes it a crowd pleaser you’ll make again and again.