
Apple pie moonshine is an alcoholic beverage that combines apple juice, cinnamon, and other spices with whiskey or grain alcohol. While the exact alcohol content can vary, it is typically made with high-proof liquor, such as 190-proof Everclear, resulting in a drink that packs a punch. Moonshine is typically homemade and has a long history in the United States, particularly in the Appalachian region, where it was introduced by Scots-Irish immigrants. Today, it is illegal to produce, transport, or consume moonshine in the United States, but pre-made versions, such as Ole Smoky® Apple Pie Moonshine (70 proof), are available for purchase.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Alcohol Content | 70 proof, 80 proof, 100 proof, 150 proof, 180 proof, 190 proof |
| Ingredients | Apple juice, apple cider, white sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, apple pie spice, grain alcohol, vodka, Everclear, whiskey, rum |
| Taste | Strong, smooth, dangerous, delicious |
| Storage | Store in a tightly sealed mason jar in a cool, dark room or in the freezer |
| Serving Temperature | Chilled or heated |
| Legal Status | Illegal in the United States to make, transport, or consume |
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What You'll Learn
- Apple pie moonshine is a homemade high-proof liquor, typically made with Everclear (190 proof) or grain alcohol
- It is illegal to make, possess or consume moonshine in the US, so people use legal alcohol like Everclear as a substitute
- The drink is made by combining apple cider, apple juice, sugar, cinnamon sticks, and apple pie spice, then adding grain alcohol and vodka
- It is best to let the mixture sit for at least 3-4 weeks before drinking, as it improves with age
- Apple pie moonshine is smooth and packs a punch, so it is recommended to consume it in moderation

Apple pie moonshine is a homemade high-proof liquor, typically made with Everclear (190 proof) or grain alcohol
The process of making apple pie moonshine involves combining apple cider, apple juice, white sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, and apple pie spice in a large pot. This mixture is heated to almost a boil, then covered and simmered for about an hour. After removing from the heat, the mixture is allowed to cool before stirring in the grain alcohol and, optionally, vodka. The result is a flavour-packed liquor that can be enjoyed immediately but is best left to age for a few weeks to enhance the flavour.
The name "moonshine" originates from the practice of making alcohol illegally under the cover of night during the Prohibition era. While it is no longer illegal to consume moonshine, it is still prohibited to distill liquor without a license and comply with state and local laws.
The proof of apple pie moonshine can vary depending on the type of alcohol used and the specific recipe followed. Everclear, a grain alcohol, is commonly used and is available in 151 and 190-proof varieties. The higher the proof, the higher the alcohol content, and the faster the bubbles will dissipate when the bottle is shaken.
Some people prefer their apple pie moonshine to have a lower alcohol content, opting for a 100-proof spirit or diluting it with other liquids to achieve the desired flavour and strength. It is important to note that unfermented sugars in apple pie can affect the accuracy of alcohol content measurements using a hydrometer, so dilution calculations may be necessary to determine the proof.
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It is illegal to make, possess or consume moonshine in the US, so people use legal alcohol like Everclear as a substitute
Apple pie moonshine is a homemade high-proof liquor, typically made with apple cider, apple juice, white sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, apple pie spice, grain alcohol, and vodka. While it is illegal to make, possess or consume moonshine in the US, some states allow it for personal consumption. These include Alaska, Arizona, Massachusetts, and Missouri, and North Dakota. However, Arizona requires a permit for producing moonshine, and North Dakota enforces a limit on the number of gallons produced.
Due to the illegality of producing moonshine, people often substitute legal alcohol, such as Everclear, a 190-proof grain alcohol, in their apple pie moonshine. If Everclear is unavailable, a lower-proof alternative, such as 150-proof grain alcohol, or additional vodka, can be used instead.
The process of making apple pie moonshine involves combining apple cider, apple juice, sugars, cinnamon sticks, and apple pie spice in a large stockpot. The mixture is then brought to a boil, simmered for an hour, and allowed to cool before removing the cinnamon sticks and adding the grain alcohol and vodka. The resulting moonshine can be consumed immediately but is often stored in sealed mason jars and left to age for several weeks to enhance its flavor.
The proof of apple pie moonshine can vary depending on the recipe and the type of alcohol used. Some recipes aim for a proof of around 100, while others result in a lower proof of 70. The proof can be adjusted by diluting the mixture with water or using a higher-proof alcohol.
While the use of legal substitutes like Everclear circumvents the issue of moonshine's illegality, it is important to note that high-proof alcohols, whether moonshine or store-bought, can be dangerous and should be consumed in moderation.
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The drink is made by combining apple cider, apple juice, sugar, cinnamon sticks, and apple pie spice, then adding grain alcohol and vodka
Apple pie moonshine is a drink that combines apple cider, apple juice, sugar, cinnamon sticks, and apple pie spice, with grain alcohol and vodka. The drink is easy to make at home and can be customised to one's taste. The alcohol content of the drink can be adjusted by altering the amount of grain alcohol and vodka added, but it is typically a very strong drink.
To make apple pie moonshine, one should start by combining apple cider, apple juice, sugar, cinnamon sticks, and apple pie spice in a large stock pot. The mixture should be brought to a boil, then covered and simmered for about an hour. After removing the pot from the heat, it should be allowed to cool, and the cinnamon sticks removed. At this stage, the grain alcohol and vodka are stirred in. The drink is then transferred to sterilised quart jars or bottles and garnished with a cinnamon stick.
The drink can be consumed immediately, but it is recommended to store it in the refrigerator for 3-4 weeks to allow the flavours to develop. The longer it sits, the better it tastes. Freezing is also an option to extend the shelf life of the drink, and it can be stored in the freezer for up to two years.
The alcohol content of apple pie moonshine can vary depending on the recipe and the type of alcohol used. Some recipes call for 190-proof grain alcohol (Everclear), while others suggest substituting it with 150-proof alcohol or using more vodka. The alcohol content can also be adjusted to one's preference, with some preferring their apple pie moonshine at 100-proof for a strong apple flavour.
Apple pie moonshine is a versatile drink that can be customised to one's taste. Some variations include adding vanilla vodka, spiced rum, or Fireball cinnamon whisky. The drink can be served in mason jars or shot glasses and makes a great gift for special occasions.
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It is best to let the mixture sit for at least 3-4 weeks before drinking, as it improves with age
Apple pie moonshine is a homemade high-proof liquor, typically made with 190-proof grain alcohol, also known as Everclear. It is often prepared with additional ingredients such as apple cider, apple juice, white sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, and apple pie spice. While it can be enjoyed immediately, many believe that it improves with age.
For those who wish to age their apple pie moonshine, it is recommended to let the mixture sit for at least 3-4 weeks before drinking. This allows the flavours to meld and develop, resulting in a smoother and more complex taste. The longer it sits, the better it gets, with some enthusiasts suggesting ageing for up to several months or even years.
The process of ageing enhances the drinking experience by allowing the harsh alcohol notes to mellow and the flavours to become more integrated. During this time, the various ingredients' flavours have time to blend and harmonize, creating a more rounded and nuanced beverage. This ageing process is similar to that of fine wines or whiskeys, where maturation adds depth and character to the drink.
To facilitate ageing, it is advisable to store the apple pie moonshine in airtight containers, such as mason jars or bottles, and keep them in a cool, dark place, like a refrigerator or cellar. This helps maintain the quality and freshness of the drink while it ages. Additionally, ensuring proper sealing prevents oxidation and the undesirable effects of exposure to light, both of which can negatively impact the flavour and longevity of the moonshine.
While ageing is not mandatory, it is generally agreed that apple pie moonshine benefits from this process, becoming smoother and more flavourful over time. However, it is essential to exercise moderation when consuming this beverage due to its high alcohol content, typically ranging from 70-proof to 190-proof, depending on the recipe and ingredients used.
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Apple pie moonshine is smooth and packs a punch, so it is recommended to consume it in moderation
Apple pie moonshine is a drink that combines apple juice, apple cider, cinnamon, and other spices with high-proof grain alcohol or vodka. It is often made with Everclear, a commercially available grain alcohol that is sold in 151 or 190 proof. In terms of alcohol content, 190 proof alcohol translates to about 85% to 95% pure alcohol.
The drink is known for its smooth and delicious flavor, reminiscent of apple pie. However, it is important to remember that apple pie moonshine packs a punch due to its high alcohol content. It is recommended to consume it in moderation, as it can be dangerous if consumed in excess. The smooth taste of the drink can make it difficult to gauge how strong it actually is, and it is easy to overindulge.
To make apple pie moonshine, one typically combines apple cider, apple juice, white and brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, and apple pie spice in a large pot. This mixture is heated until it almost reaches a boil, then simmered for about an hour. After cooling, grain alcohol and vodka are added, and the mixture is transferred to sterilized jars or bottles. It is often recommended to let the mixture sit for several weeks to allow the flavours to meld and enhance the taste.
Apple pie moonshine has a long history, dating back to the Scots-Irish who brought shine-making techniques to America. It was especially important in the Appalachian region, where it became traditional. Today, it is illegal to distill your own liquor in the United States, but commercially-made apple pie moonshine is available, such as the Ole Smoky® brand, which offers a 70-proof version.
Overall, apple pie moonshine is a tasty treat, but its high alcohol content means it should be enjoyed in moderation and with caution. It is a drink to be savoured and appreciated, rather than consumed in large quantities.
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Frequently asked questions
Moonshine is around 180 to 190 proof or about 85% to 95% pure alcohol.
Apple pie moonshine is a drink made by combining apple cider, apple juice, white sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, and apple pie spice. The mixture is brought to a boil, cooled, and then mixed with grain alcohol and vodka.
Apple pie moonshine can last up to two years if stored in a sealed container in the freezer. If opened, it will keep for about three months in the refrigerator.
Liquor-control laws in the United States prohibit moonshining, including the distillation of liquor and possession of illegal alcohol containers. However, some sources suggest that it is possible to make legal moonshine by using commercially available high-proof liquor such as Everclear.






































