Get ready to infuse your senses with the tantalizing aroma and rich flavor of a true seasonal delight: homemade Apple Pie Moonshine. Crafted with ease in your trusty slow cooker, this Crock Pot Apple Pie Moonshine recipe delivers a remarkably delicious and potent beverage that captures the essence of a warm apple pie in liquid form. It’s an absolute must-try for anyone seeking a unique, comforting, and impressively strong drink, perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy evenings, or as a thoughtful handcrafted gift.
Crafting the Perfect Apple Pie Moonshine in Your Slow Cooker
There’s something uniquely satisfying about creating a homemade brew, and this Apple Pie Moonshine recipe takes the convenience of your slow cooker to a whole new level. Forget complicated distillation processes; this method is all about infusing rich flavors and creating a smooth, potent drink with minimal effort. We’ve had immense fun experimenting with different moonshine flavors this year, from the bright notes of Cherry Pie Moonshine to the zesty kick of Lemonade Moonshine. This apple-infused version, however, stands out as a true autumn and winter classic, quickly becoming a fan favorite for its comforting taste and inviting aroma.
The beauty of using a crock pot for this recipe lies in its ability to gently simmer and meld the ingredients over several hours. This slow infusion process ensures that the apple cider absorbs the warm, spicy notes of cinnamon, creating a deeply aromatic base before the potent Everclear is introduced. It’s a hands-off approach that guarantees a consistent and delicious result every time, making it an ideal choice for both seasoned home brewers and beginners alike. The slow cooker’s steady, low heat allows for a gradual extraction of flavors, preventing scorching and ensuring a perfectly balanced base for your moonshine.
Understanding “Moonshine” in a Modern Context
Historically, “moonshine” referred to illegally distilled, high-proof liquor, often made under the cover of night. This illicit production was born out of necessity and a desire to avoid taxes, particularly during Prohibition. Today, the term has evolved to also describe legal, unaged spirits, or, as in the case of our recipe, a delicious flavored liquor that mimics the traditional potency and spirit of homemade concoctions. This Crock Pot Apple Pie Moonshine is not distilled; rather, it’s a robust infusion where high-proof grain alcohol, like Everclear, is blended with a homemade, spiced apple cider base. The result is a smooth, sweet, and deceptively strong drink that’s perfect for sipping cautiously or mixing into holiday cocktails, embodying the nostalgic charm of a bygone era with a modern twist.
A crucial reminder: this Apple Pie Moonshine recipe is exceptionally potent! Its smooth, inviting flavors of apple and cinnamon can easily mask its high alcohol content, making it dangerously easy to over-consume. Always enjoy this delightful beverage responsibly and in moderation. A small serving goes a long way to experience the full, warming effects of this delicious homemade brew. Pace yourself and savor the experience.
Essential Ingredients for Your Homemade Apple Pie Moonshine
Gathering your ingredients for this delightful recipe is straightforward, requiring only a few key items that come together to create a truly magical drink. Each component plays a vital role in building the complex, comforting flavors of apple pie in a glass, ensuring an authentic taste profile:
- Apple Cider: The very foundation of our moonshine. We recommend opting for a good quality, unfiltered apple cider for the best, most authentic apple flavor. The cloudy nature of unfiltered cider often signifies a richer, more robust apple essence that translates beautifully into the final drink. Explore more apple cider recipes on our site for inspiration.
- Everclear: This high-proof grain alcohol is the heart of the “moonshine” aspect of the recipe. Its neutral flavor profile is precisely what makes it ideal, as it allows the natural apple and cinnamon notes to shine through beautifully without any competing tastes. It provides the desired potency, making this a truly impactful beverage.
- Cinnamon Sticks: These impart a warm, spicy aroma and flavor that is characteristic of classic apple pie. Using whole sticks ensures a gradual, balanced infusion throughout the simmering process, preventing an overly aggressive spice. You can adjust the quantity (3-5 sticks) based on your personal preference for cinnamon intensity.
For those looking to expand on the flavor profile, consider adding a few whole cloves or a tiny pinch of freshly grated nutmeg to the cider as it simmers. These additions can add an extra layer of complexity, reminiscent of a spiced apple pie filling. However, start with the core ingredients to truly appreciate the simplicity and elegance of the classic combination.
Recommended Kitchen Tools for Brewing Success
While the recipe itself is simple and doesn’t require specialized equipment, having the right tools can make the process even smoother, more efficient, and ensure a higher quality end product:
- Slow Cooker: A generously sized crock pot, ideally 6-quart or larger, is essential for simmering the apple cider. We highly recommend one that features a digital timer and an automatic “keep warm” setting. This function is incredibly convenient, ensuring your spiced cider cools down safely after the cooking time without over-reducing or becoming too hot, thus giving you peace of mind and preventing constant monitoring.
- Large Pot or Bowl: After the cider has simmered and cooled, you’ll need a spacious container for mixing it thoroughly with the Everclear. You may need to transfer the cooled cider from the slow cooker to a separate, larger pot or bowl if your crock pot isn’t big enough to comfortably hold both liquids once combined.
- Mason Jars or Canning Jars: These are indispensable for storing your finished apple pie moonshine. Their sturdy construction and airtight seals are perfect for preserving the flavor, ensuring longevity, and preventing any spills or evaporation. Quart-sized jars are ideal for individual gifts or convenient storage.
- Funnel: A wide-mouth funnel will prove incredibly useful for transferring the liquid mixture into the narrow openings of the canning jars, helping to prevent any sticky messes and wasted product.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Creating Your Apple Pie Moonshine
Crafting your delicious homemade Apple Pie Moonshine is a straightforward process when following these simple steps. Patience is a virtue, especially during the cooling and aging phases, as these are critical for developing the best flavor:
- Simmer the Cider: Begin by carefully pouring the entire gallon of apple cider into your slow cooker. Add the 3-5 cinnamon sticks directly to the cider. Set your slow cooker to a low setting and allow the mixture to cook for a full 8 hours. This prolonged, gentle simmering process is key, as it allows the cider to become deeply infused with the warm, aromatic spice of the cinnamon, building a rich and fragrant base that will define your moonshine.
- Cool Down Completely: Once the 8 hours of simmering are complete, turn off your slow cooker. It is absolutely crucial to allow the spiced apple cider to cool completely within the pot. This step cannot be rushed. Do NOT add the Everclear to hot or even warm liquid, as alcohol evaporates quickly at elevated temperatures, which would significantly reduce the potency and overall yield of your moonshine. Ensure the liquid reaches room temperature before proceeding.
- Combine with Everclear: Once the apple cider has fully cooled, carefully mix in the entire liter of Everclear. Depending on the size of your slow cooker, you may need to transfer the cooled cider to a larger pot or container to comfortably accommodate both liquids and allow for thorough mixing. Stir the mixture gently but thoroughly to ensure the Everclear is well combined and evenly distributed throughout the spiced cider base.
- Jar and Age for Perfection: Using a funnel, carefully pour the finished moonshine mixture into clean canning jars, filling them to within an inch of the rim. Seal the jars tightly with their lids. Store these sealed jars in a cool, dark place for a minimum of 30 days before serving. This “aging” period is not merely a suggestion; it is vital for allowing the alcohol and flavors to truly meld, deepen, and mellow. This process results in a smoother, more complex, and wonderfully integrated apple pie taste that truly comes alive with time.
Expert Tips for the Best Apple Pie Moonshine Experience
To ensure your homemade Apple Pie Moonshine is nothing short of perfection and to maximize your enjoyment, keep these valuable tips in mind:
- Potency Alert: We cannot stress this enough – this is a remarkably strong drink! Its delicious, sweet flavor makes it deceptively easy to drink, but the effects are potent and can be felt quickly. Please enjoy responsibly, in small quantities, and never drive after consuming.
- Aging is Key for Flavor: While it might be tempting to taste your creation right away, the 30-day aging period is absolutely non-negotiable for the best flavor. This crucial time allows the alcohol and all the subtle apple and cinnamon notes to fully integrate, mellow, and develop into that smooth, signature apple pie essence you’re looking for.
- Enhance the Flavor Profile: For an even richer and more intense cinnamon profile, consider adding an additional fresh cinnamon stick to each individual mason jar before filling it with the moonshine. Let these extra sticks sit and infuse during the entire aging process for an intensified spice. You can also experiment with a few whole cloves or a small piece of star anise during the initial cider simmering phase for added depth and complexity, but introduce these sparingly.
- Perfect Presentation for Gifting: Homemade Apple Pie Moonshine makes an incredible, personalized gift for holidays, birthdays, or any special occasion. Enhance its appeal and thoughtful nature by designing and attaching cute printable labels to your mason jars. A custom label truly elevates this handcrafted present, making it feel extra special.
- Proper Storage for Longevity: Always store your finished moonshine in airtight mason jars. Keep these jars in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight or heat. This not only preserves its quality and flavor but also prevents any evaporation and ensures a long shelf life.
- Versatile Serving Suggestions: Your Apple Pie Moonshine can be enjoyed in various delightful ways. Serve it chilled, over ice for a refreshing kick, or even warmed gently in a saucepan (without boiling!) for a cozy, soul-warming winter beverage. It also makes an excellent base for holiday cocktails, blending wonderfully with ginger ale, sparkling apple cider, or a splash of caramel liqueur for an extra treat.
Why This Moonshine is Perfect for the Holidays
The comforting flavors of apple and cinnamon are synonymous with warmth, comfort, and festive celebration, making this Crock Pot Apple Pie Moonshine an absolutely ideal choice for fall and winter festivities. It’s a fantastic addition to your Thanksgiving cocktails and drinks menu, a standout at Christmas parties, or simply a delightful treat to share with loved ones during chilly evenings. Its unique homemade charm and impressive flavor profile are sure to make it a memorable part of any gathering, inviting conversations and spreading cheer. Consider bringing a batch to your next potluck or family dinner – it’s guaranteed to be a hit!
Explore More Apple-Inspired Delights
If you’re making this exquisite apple-pie inspired drink, chances are you’re a devoted fan of all things apple! We have a plethora of other delightful apple recipes perfect for late summer into early fall, or whenever you crave that crisp, sweet, and comforting fruit. Why not complement your moonshine with some of these delicious treats?
- Apple Blackberry Fruit Tart
- Slow Cooker Apple Crisp
- Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
- Apple Raisin French Toast
- Apple Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
For those who adore the convenience and wholesome goodness of slow cooker meals, be sure to check out all of our vegetarian crockpot recipes. And if you’re always on the hunt for delicious culinary inspiration, whether it’s recreating your restaurant favorites or finding quick weeknight dinners, explore our wide array of copycat recipes, irresistible dessert recipes, and an extensive collection of CrockPot Recipes.
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Crock Pot Apple Pie Moonshine Recipe
Super easy to make homemade Crock Pot Apple Pie Moonshine is absolutely delicious! Learn how to make this delightful moonshine in the slow cooker with our simple recipe. Made with Everclear, this recipe packs a serious punch, so please enjoy responsibly. It makes a fantastic holiday gift or a unique DIY birthday present.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours
Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 16
Calories: 254 kcal
Author: Tammilee Tips
Ingredients
- 1 Gallon Apple Cider
- 1 Liter Everclear
- 3-5 Cinnamon Sticks (depending on your desired cinnamon intensity)
Unit System: US Customary – Metric
Instructions
- Add Apple cider and cinnamon sticks to the crock pot and cook on low for 8 hours. Allow the liquid to cool completely in the crock pot once cooking is done.
- Once cooled, mix Everclear and cider together. You may need to transfer the liquid to a larger pot or pan if your crock pot is not large enough to accommodate both liquids.
- Pour the mixture into clean canning jars and seal them tightly. Store the jars in a cool, dark place for at least 30 days. This aging period is crucial for the moonshine to properly combine and develop its full, fresh flavor.
Kitchen Tools
- Slow cooker
- Large pot or bowl (for mixing)
- Mason jars
- Funnel
Notes
Remember this is a strong drink! Please consume responsibly and in moderation.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrition Facts
Crock Pot Apple Pie Moonshine Recipe
Amount Per Serving
Calories 254
% Daily Value*
Sodium 10mg 0%
Potassium 241mg 7%
Carbohydrates 27g 9%
Sugar 22g 24%
Vitamin C 2.1mg 3%
Calcium 25mg 3%
Iron 0.3mg 2%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
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Recipe originally shared on March 15, 2015. Content updated and enhanced in January 2021 and further revised for clarity, SEO optimization, and an improved reader experience in 2024.