Are you ready to shake things up and get a taste of the old country? Look no further! Homemade moonshine has been a staple in American culture for centuries, and we’re excited to share our top 18 classic recipes with you. From sweet treats like Apple Pie Moonshine to spicy twists like Cherry Bomb Moonshine, these authentic recipes will transport you back to a simpler time.
But what exactly is moonshine? In its purest form, moonshine refers to any type of spirits that are distilled at night or outside the reach of law enforcement – hence the name! Over time, moonshiners developed their own secret recipes and techniques, resulting in a wide range of flavors and strengths. Today, we’re celebrating this rich history by sharing our favorite recipes with you. So grab your still, don your best “shine”-maker’s hat, and let’s get started on this boozy journey!
Apple Pie Moonshine
Apple Pie Moonshine Recipe
Elevate your spirits with this sweet and tangy moonshine that captures the flavors of a classic apple pie. This recipe is perfect for those who love a good blend of bourbon, apple, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups moonshine
– 1 cup apple cider
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6 cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions:
1. Combine the moonshine, apple cider, brown sugar, and honey in a large saucepan.
2. Add the cinnamon sticks, cloves, nutmeg, and ginger to the mixture.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together and the liquid has reduced slightly.
4. Strain the moonshine into a clean glass bottle through cheesecloth or a coffee filter.
5. Store the Apple Pie Moonshine in the refrigerator and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Peach Cobbler Moonshine
Transform the flavors of your favorite peach cobbler into a smooth and sweet moonshine, perfect for sipping on its own or using as a base for mixed cocktails.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon white corn liquor
– 2 cups peach puree (canned or fresh)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Combine the peach puree, sugar, and water in a large pot. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the white corn liquor and vanilla extract.
3. Transfer the mixture to a glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid.
4. Store in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Strain the moonshine through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another container. Discard any sediment.
Cooking Time: None (the mixture will steep over time)
Cherry Bomb Moonshine
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with this bold and fruity moonshine recipe! Cherry Bomb is a sweet and tangy concoction that’s perfect for sipping on its own or using as a base for other cocktails.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs cherries, pitted
– 1 lb sugar
– 1 gallon water
– 1/4 cup corn syrup
– 1/4 cup moonshine (at least 40% ABV)
Instructions:
1. Combine cherries and sugar in a large pot.
2. Add water and bring to a boil, stirring until sugar dissolves.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, or until cherries are soft.
4. Strain mixture through cheesecloth into a clean container.
5. Add corn syrup and moonshine. Stir well to combine.
6. Store in the refrigerator for at least 2 weeks to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Corn Mash Moonshine
Combine the rich flavors of corn with a hint of moonshine for a unique and potent treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of fresh or frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup of white sugar
– 1/4 cup of water
– 1 tablespoon of baking powder
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 cup of moonshine (at least 40% ABV)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine corn kernels, sugar, water, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the corn is tender.
4. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled corn mixture with moonshine. Stir until well combined.
6. Pour the mixture into glass jars or containers and store in the refrigerator.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Strawberry Lemonade Moonshine
Experience the perfect blend of sweet and tangy with this refreshing moonshine recipe that combines the flavors of strawberries, lemons, and a hint of sweetness. Perfect for sipping on a warm summer evening or sharing with friends at your next outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of strawberries, crushed
– 1 cup of lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
– 1 cup of moonshine (your preferred brand)
– 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup of water
– Sliced lemons for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the crushed strawberries and lemon juice. Stir until well combined.
2. Add the moonshine, sugar, and water to the pitcher. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Serve the Strawberry Lemonade Moonshine over ice and garnish with sliced lemons.
Cooking Time: None required! This moonshine recipe is ready to drink as soon as it’s chilled.
Blackberry Shine
This sweet and tangy drink is perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a pick-me-up any time of the year. Blackberry shine combines the flavors of blackberries, lemon juice, and honey to create a unique and delicious beverage.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blackberries
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup water
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine blackberries, honey, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth.
2. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher or jug to remove seeds and pulp.
3. Add the water to the pitcher and stir well.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
5. Serve the blackberry shine over ice cubes, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Yield: Serves 4-6 people
Traditional Sugar Shine
Traditional Sugar Shine Recipe
This classic recipe produces a rich, golden syrup that’s perfect for topping pancakes, waffles, or French toast. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying this sweet treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
Instructions:
1. Combine the sugar, water, and corn syrup in a medium saucepan.
2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for about 10-12 minutes or until the syrup reaches 240°F on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to a clean glass jar.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Tips: For a clearer syrup, you can filter it through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth before bottling. Traditional Sugar Shine is best consumed within 2 weeks of making, so be sure to store it in the refrigerator to prolong its shelf life.
Spiced Rum Moonshine
Add a touch of warmth and spice to your moonshine with this simple recipe that combines the bold flavors of rum, spices, and sugar.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon moonshine (at least 40% ABV)
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup dark rum
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the moonshine, brown sugar, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
3. Add the dark rum, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Stir well to combine.
4. Transfer the mixture to a clean glass jug or bottle. Store in a cool, dark place for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to mature.
5. Strain the moonshine before serving. Enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Blueberry Blast Moonshine
Get ready to shine with this sweet and tangy blueberry-infused moonshine! This recipe combines the natural sweetness of blueberries with the smooth, grain-based spirit of moonshine.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups blueberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 gallon moonshine (at least 150 proof)
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 1 cinnamon stick
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine blueberries and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the berries release their juice and the mixture thickens into a syrup-like consistency.
2. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Add moonshine to the pot, stirring well to combine.
4. Add sliced lemon and cinnamon stick to the mixture.
5. Transfer the mixture to a clean glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid.
6. Store in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks to allow flavors to mature.
7. Strain the moonshine through cheesecloth or a coffee filter before serving.
Cooking Time: None required
Pineapple Upside-Down Moonshine
This recipe combines the flavors of pineapple, brown sugar, and bourbon to create a unique moonshine that’s perfect for sipping on its own or using in cocktails.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey (at least 100 proof)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine pineapple juice, brown sugar, and bourbon. Heat over low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in cinnamon and nutmeg.
3. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container.
4. Store in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None
Peppermint Patty Moonshine
Get ready to experience a unique twist on traditional moonshine with this Peppermint Patty recipe. This sweet and refreshing drink is perfect for warm weather or as a creative addition to your holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon of moonshine (or white whiskey)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies (such as Andes Mints)
– 1/4 cup patty cream liqueur (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine the moonshine, sugar, and water in a large pot and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and stir in crushed peppermint candies until well combined.
4. Let the mixture cool before transferring it to a glass jug or bottle.
5. If desired, add patty cream liqueur (such as Baileys Irish Cream) and stir well.
6. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Caramel Apple Moonshine
This recipe combines the warmth of apple cider with the richness of caramel, perfect for a crisp autumn evening. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a unique and delicious moonshine that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon moonshine (at least 80 proof)
– 2 cups apple cider
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Caramel coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the apple cider, sugar, and corn syrup. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the moonshine and vanilla extract.
3. Strain the mixture into a clean glass bottle or jug.
4. If desired, add caramel coloring to tint the moonshine.
5. Store in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Grape Ape Moonshine
This recipe takes inspiration from the classic Grape Ape strain and turns it into a unique moonshine flavor profile. Rich, fruity notes of concord grapes meet sweet, velvety textures in this delightful concoction.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of neutral-tasting moonshine (at least 150 proof)
– 1 cup of concord grape juice
– 1/4 cup of honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– 1/4 teaspoon of citric acid powder
– 1/8 teaspoon of natural grape flavor extract
Instructions:
1. Combine the moonshine, grape juice, and honey syrup in a large mixing bowl.
2. Stir until the honey is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
3. Add the citric acid powder and grape flavor extract. Stir well to combine.
4. Pour the mixture into a clean glass bottle or jug.
5. Store the moonshine at room temperature for at least 24 hours to allow flavors to meld together.
6. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter to remove any sediment.
7. Enjoy your Grape Ape Moonshine! (Note: Please consume responsibly and follow local laws regarding moonshine production and consumption.)
Cooking Time: None required; simply mix, wait, and enjoy!
Sweet Tea Moonshine
Get ready to taste the essence of the South with this sweet tea-infused moonshine recipe. With a hint of citrus and a touch of sweetness, this concoction is perfect for sipping on a warm summer evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon white lightning moonshine (100 proof)
– 4 cups strong brewed sweet tea
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 1 orange, sliced
Instructions:
1. Combine the moonshine and sweet tea in a large pot or container.
2. Add the granulated sugar and stir until dissolved.
3. Add the sliced lemons and oranges to the mixture.
4. Let it steep for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a separate container. Discard the solids.
6. Store the sweet tea moonshine in an airtight container and let it chill in the refrigerator before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Banana Pudding Moonshine
Banana Pudding Moonshine Recipe: A creamy and sweet treat that combines the flavors of banana pudding with a hint of moonshine. This recipe is perfect for those who want to add a little excitement to their dessert game.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 large ripe bananas, sliced
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup moonshine (or substitute with a clear spirit of your choice)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Add the sliced bananas to the mixture and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the bananas are tender and the mixture is heated through.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the cornstarch mixture to the saucepan and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the pudding thickens.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the moonshine (or substitute). Let it cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fireball Cinnamon Moonshine
Add a warm and spicy twist to your favorite cocktails with this homemade Fireball Cinnamon Moonshine recipe. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and potent moonshine that’s perfect for sipping on its own or using as a base for craft cocktails.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon of everclear or other high-proof grain alcohol
– 1 cup of cinnamon syrup (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup of water
– 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon of ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Combine the everclear, cinnamon syrup, apple cider vinegar, and water in a large pot.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and add the ground cinnamon and nutmeg. Stir to combine.
4. Let the mixture cool to room temperature before transferring it to a clean glass bottle.
5. Store in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None
Lemon Drop Moonshine
Brighten up your spirits with this refreshing lemon-flavored moonshine recipe! Made with a blend of citrusy lemons and sweet sugar, this homemade moonshine is perfect for sipping on a warm evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon water
– 2 pounds sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated citric acid (available at home brew supply stores)
– 10-12 lemons, juiced
– 1 teaspoon lemon extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine the water and sugar in a large pot and heat until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and add the citric acid and lemon juice. Stir until well combined.
3. Allow the mixture to cool before transferring it to a sanitized container.
4. Add the lemon extract, if using.
5. Store in a dark place for at least 14 days to allow the flavors to mature.
6. Strain the moonshine through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another sanitized container.
Cooking Time: None, as this is an infusion process.
Vanilla Bean Moonshine
Experience the smooth, velvety texture and subtle sweetness of vanilla bean-infused moonshine with this easy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart (32 oz) moonshine or vodka
– 2-3 whole vanilla beans, split lengthwise
– 1 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Combine the moonshine and split vanilla beans in a large glass jar or container.
2. Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks to allow the flavors to meld together.
3. After the infusion period, strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another container, discarding the vanilla beans.
4. Add the granulated sugar to the moonshine mixture and stir until dissolved.
5. Bottle the moonshine in airtight containers and store it at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 2 weeks (infusion period)
Yield: 1 quart (32 oz) of Vanilla Bean Moonshine
Summary
Get ready to shine with these 18 classic homemade moonshine recipes! From sweet treats like Apple Pie and Caramel Apple, to fruity flavors like Strawberry Lemonade and Blackberry Shine, there’s something for every taste bud. You’ll also find traditional favorites like Corn Mash and Spiced Rum, as well as creative twists like Peppermint Patty and Fireball Cinnamon. With these authentic recipes, you can create your own moonshine at home – perfect for special occasions or just a little something to brighten up your day.
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