Not as strong as real moonshine, but it still packs a kick!
This label was made using the Avery Label maker app, printed on sticky Avery labels and stuck on the mason jars the "moonshine" was put in. Included as a gift, were the cute little mason jar shot glasses below. For gift wrapping, put the jar of moonshine and shot glasses (wrapped in a bit of tissue paper) in a plain brown paper bag, twist the top of the bag, and tie with a piece of twine.
Do a search for "mason jar shot glasses". They can be found with lids, or without.
RECIPE (best made at least 2 weeks ahead)
Makes: 6 quarts (or 12 pints)Purchase the number of quart or pint mason jars you need.
Ingredients
½ gal (8 cups) spiced apple cider (*see note)
½ gal (8 cups) apple juice
6 cinnamon sticks
1 whole clove
1 teaspoon ground allspice
¾ cup sugar
¾ cup brown sugar
3 cups 190 proof grain alcohol (like Everclear)
2 cups whipped cream vodka
3 apples (any kind except Red Delicious), peeled, cored, and each cut in eight pieces
*Note: I used “Apple Pie Cider” from Walmart but any cider that says “spiced” is fine. It may be seasonal, so if you can’t find it, see recipe below.
Instructions
In a large stock pot, combine all ingredients except for the alcohol and apples. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat & let cool to room temperature. Once the mixture is completely cool, add in the alcohol. Remove cinnamon sticks and divide them evenly into the mason jars. Throw away clove. Divide apple pieces evenly and put in the mason jars. Pour moonshine into mason jars, and put on lids.
Store in refrigerator, or in a cool, dark, dry place. (*see note)
Shake gently before pouring/drinking.
~After a couple of weeks your Apple Pie Moonshine will taste even better. It is very good ice cold, as well as at room temperature or slightly warmed.~
*Note: As far as long-term storage (being out more than a day or two), some sources say this moonshine should be kept refrigerated because, since it is cut with apple cider/juice, the alcohol content is not high enough to preserve the fruit juice and fruit. On the flip side, some sources say it doesn’t need to be refrigerated, and that they’ve kept it on their pantry for a year with no problems. You will need to decide for yourself, although I would recommend erring on the side of caution and keeping in the fridge.
SPICED APPLE CIDER
8 cups apple cider2 cinnamon sticks
4 whole cloves
1 orange, cut into 8 slices (do not peel)
Put everything in a 3-quart saucepan. Heat until hot, stirring occasionally. Strain into a pitcher or other container.
Your thoughts are always appreciated!