Caramel Apple Pie Moonshine

Recipe 03  |  Prep Time: 15 minutes  |  Cook Time: 45–60 minutes  |  Total Time: 1–1½ hours + cooling

This version adds a rich caramel note to the classic apple pie moonshine. It is smooth, dessert-like, and perfect for fall gatherings. Because it contains caramel and a lower final alcohol strength, it must be stored in the refrigerator.

Ingredients

• 1 gallon apple cider
• 1 gallon apple juice
• 1½ cups granulated sugar
• 1½ cups packed brown sugar
• 1 cup caramel sauce (or 1 cup soft caramel candies, unwrapped)
• 4 cinnamon sticks
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups 190-proof grain alcohol (e.g., Everclear)
• 2 cups vodka

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Combine the base. In a large stockpot over medium heat, combine the apple cider, apple juice, granulated sugar, brown sugar, caramel sauce or candies, cinnamon sticks, ginger, allspice, and cloves. Stir well.
2. Simmer gently. Bring the mixture to a low simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sugar and caramel are completely dissolved. Do not let it boil hard.
3. Add vanilla. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Cool completely. Let the mixture cool to room temperature. This is important — adding alcohol to a hot liquid will cause it to evaporate and may create dangerous fumes.
5. Remove whole spices. Take out the cinnamon sticks. If any caramel has settled, stir again until smooth.
6. Add the alcohol. Stir in the grain alcohol and vodka until fully combined.
7. Bottle and store. Pour into clean glass jars or bottles. Seal tightly and refrigerate. Shake well before each serving, because caramel and spices may settle.

Tip: For the best flavor, let the moonshine rest in the refrigerator for 1–2 weeks before drinking. It will keep in the fridge for up to 2–3 months. For a stronger batch, reduce the apple cider to 8 cups, but always keep it refrigerated.

Safety notes: Grain alcohol is highly flammable. Never add it near an open flame or hot stove. This recipe is for adults only. For your 14-year-old batch, follow the visual, smell, and tiny-taste checks from the earlier safety guide — when in doubt, throw it out.