Apple Pie Moonshine
Ingredients:
● 1 gallon apple cider
● 1 1/2 cups light brown sugar
● 4 small lemons, halved
● 2 small navel oranges, halved
● 4 whole cloves
● 3 cinnamon sticks
● 3 whole star anise
● Two 2-inch pieces fresh ginger root, peeled
● 4 cups moonshine (or unflavored vodka as a milder substitute)
● 4 unpeeled apples, quartered (any variety)
Instructions:
1️⃣ Add the apple cider, brown sugar, lemons, oranges, cloves, cinnamon sticks, star anise, and ginger to a large 2-gallon pot.
2️⃣ Bring the mixture just up to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it bubble softly for about 5 minutes so the spices infuse.
3️⃣ Remove the pot from the heat and allow the mixture to cool completely to room temperature.
4️⃣ Stir in the moonshine (or vodka) and add the quartered apples to the cooled cider mixture, then cover the pot.
5️⃣ Let the mixture stand at room temperature overnight so the flavors meld and the apples absorb the liquid.
6️⃣ The next day, lift out and discard the citrus halves. Taste and either strain out the spices or leave them in if you prefer a stronger spice flavor.
7️⃣ Ladle the moonshine and apple pieces into clean quart-size Mason jars, seal with lids, and refrigerate until ready to drink or gift.
8️⃣ To serve, pour the chilled apple pie moonshine over ice and enjoy.
Preparation Time: 10 hours 30 minutes
