Are you ready to take your moonshining skills to the next level? With a 5-gallon still, you can create a wide variety of delicious and unique flavored spirits. And what better way to get started than with some classic recipes that have been perfected over time? In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 traditional moonshine recipes that are sure to please even the most discerning palates.
From sweet treats like Peach Cobbler Moonshine and Caramel Apple Moonshine, to fruity flavors like Strawberry Shortcake Moonshine and Blueberry Blast Moonshine, there’s something for everyone. And if you’re looking for a little more heat in your moonshine, we’ve got recipes like Cherry Bomb Moonshine and Fireball Cinnamon Moonshine that are sure to ignite your taste buds.
Whether you’re a seasoned moonshiner or just starting out, these classic recipes are the perfect place to start experimenting with new flavors and techniques. So grab your still and let’s get started on this moonshine adventure!
Traditional Corn Mash Moonshine
Get ready to savor a taste of the past with this classic corn mash moonshine recipe, perfect for those who love the smooth, rich flavor of traditional moonshine.
Ingredients:
– 5 lbs of dent corn (hominy)
– 1 lb of sugar
– 1 gallon of water
– 1/2 cup of pure cane sugar
– 1 tablespoon of baking soda
– 1 tablespoon of yeast (distiller’s yeast or champagne yeast)
Instructions:
1. Crush the corn into a coarse grind using a grain mill or mortar and pestle.
2. Combine the crushed corn, sugar, water, and baking soda in a large pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Add the yeast and stir well to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a fermentation vessel (food-grade plastic bucket or glass carboy) and cover with cheesecloth or a coffee filter.
6. Allow fermentation to take place over 7-10 days, or until the bubbles stop forming on the surface.
7. Distill the mash using a still or copper pot distillation equipment.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (simmer time)
Apple Pie Moonshine
Get ready to warm up with a mug of this delightful moonshine, infused with the flavors of apple pie. This unique recipe combines the sweetness of apples and spices with a hint of cinnamon and vanilla.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups moonshine (at least 80 proof)
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/2 tsp ground cloves
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Combine moonshine, water, apple cider, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt in a large pot.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
4. Let the mixture cool slightly before straining it into clean glass containers or bottles.
5. Store in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Peach Cobbler Moonshine
Experience the sweet and tangy flavors of peach cobbler in a whole new way with this moonshine recipe. This unique spirit combines the classic dessert with the smoothness of whiskey.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint of peaches, pureed
– 2 cups of sugar
– 1 cup of bourbon or corn whiskey
– 1/4 cup of honey
– 1/4 cup of heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon powder
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine the pureed peaches, sugar, and 1/2 cup of water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Add the bourbon or corn whiskey, honey, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and cinnamon powder to the peach mixture. Stir until well combined.
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
4. Strain the mixture into a clean glass jar or bottle. Store in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with a slice of peach if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
Cherry Bomb Moonshine
Get ready to shake things up with this fruity twist on traditional moonshine! This Cherry Bomb recipe combines the sweetness of cherries with a hint of spice and a kick of moonshine, perfect for sipping on a warm summer evening.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 cups of cherry puree (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups of sugar
– 4 cups of water
– 1/2 cup of moonshine (100 proof)
– 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon of ground cloves
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the cherry puree and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add the water to the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the moonshine, cinnamon, and cloves. Let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Strain the mixture into a clean glass bottle or jug. Store in a cool, dark place.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes + 30-minute steeping time
Sweet Tea Moonshine
Sweet Tea Moonshine Recipe
Get ready to savor the sweet taste of the South with this simple recipe for Sweet Tea Moonshine!
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon water
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 tea bags (black or green tea)
– 2 cups moonshine (or strong whiskey)
– 1 lemon, sliced
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil and add the sugar, stirring until dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and steep the tea bags for at least 10 minutes.
3. Strain the tea into a large pitcher or jug.
4. Add the moonshine (or whiskey) and stir well.
5. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None – just steep and chill!
Tips:
– Adjust the amount of sugar to your taste.
– Use a strong, bold tea for a more robust flavor.
– Experiment with different types of moonshine or whiskey for unique flavor profiles.
– Serve chilled over ice, garnished with a lemon slice.
Fireball Cinnamon Moonshine
This recipe brings a sweet and spicy twist to the classic moonshine cocktail, perfect for those who love cinnamon and a little kick. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious drink that’s sure to warm up any night.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Fireball Cinnamon Whiskey
– 1/2 oz cinnamon syrup (see below)
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– Splash of ginger beer
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Cinnamon Syrup:
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine water and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
2. Add cinnamon and remove from heat. Let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Strain syrup into a clean glass bottle.
4. Fill a rocks glass with ice. Add Fireball whiskey, cinnamon syrup, and lime juice.
5. Top with a splash of ginger beer. Stir gently.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (for cinnamon syrup)
Blueberry Blast Moonshine
Elevate your moonshine game with this sweet and tangy blueberry blast! This refreshing drink is perfect for warm evenings or as a unique gift for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups high-proof moonshine (at least 160 proof)
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Combine moonshine, blueberries, sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract in a large saucepan.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Strain the moonshine through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container. Discard solids.
5. Store in an airtight container and enjoy within 6 months.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Strawberry Shortcake Moonshine
This recipe combines the flavors of fresh strawberries and vanilla with the smooth warmth of moonshine, perfect for sipping on a warm summer evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strawberry puree
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup corn syrup
– 1/2 cup moonshine (at least 80 proof)
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the strawberry puree and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the corn syrup and moonshine. Let cool to room temperature.
4. Strain the mixture into a glass jar or bottle. Add the vanilla extract and seal.
5. Store in a dark place for at least 2 weeks to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None, as this is an infused drink.
Caramel Apple Moonshine
Combine the smoothness of moonshine with the sweet and tangy flavors of caramel apples to create a unique and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup moonshine (corn-based or other)
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2-3 sliced apples (Granny Smith or other tart variety)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– Pinch of sea salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine moonshine, corn syrup, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
2. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add heavy cream, butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and well combined.
4. Arrange sliced apples in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle caramel mixture over apples, sprinkling with sea salt as desired.
5. Allow to cool and set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Banana Pudding Moonshine
This recipe combines the creamy richness of banana pudding with the smooth, velvety texture of moonshine. Perfect for sipping on its own or using as a unique base for cocktails.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1 1/2 ounces moonshine (your preferred brand)
– Vanilla extract to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add sliced bananas, salt, and vanilla extract. Stir gently to combine.
3. Remove from heat and let steep for 10-15 minutes, or until the flavors meld together.
4. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container. Discard solids.
5. Add moonshine and stir well to combine.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Servings: 1
Pineapple Upside-Down Moonshine
Pineapple Upside-Down Moonshine Recipe
Elevate your moonshine game with this sweet and tangy recipe that combines the flavors of pineapple, cherry, and vanilla. Perfect for sipping on a warm summer evening or serving at your next outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 cups pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup cherry juice
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon moonshine
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, brown sugar, and corn syrup. Heat over medium heat, stirring until dissolved.
2. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in pineapple juice, cherry juice, and vanilla extract.
4. Let mixture cool slightly before adding moonshine. Stir well to combine.
5. Pour mixture into jars or bottles and seal tightly.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including cooling time)
Blackberry Jam Moonshine
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of blackberries with the bold spirit of moonshine, resulting in a unique and delicious concoction perfect for sipping on its own or using as a base for cocktails.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups blackberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 1/2 ounces moonshine (at least 80-proof)
– 1 lemon, juiced
Instructions:
1. Rinse the blackberries and combine them with sugar and water in a medium saucepan.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the berries have broken down and the mixture has thickened.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the moonshine and lemon juice.
4. Let the mixture cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.
5. Store the Blackberry Jam Moonshine in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Peppermint Patty Moonshine
This refreshing moonshine recipe combines the cooling flavor of peppermint with the richness of chocolate, perfect for sipping on a warm evening or sharing with friends. With its sweet and tangy taste, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon moonshine (at least 50% ABV)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup peppermint extract
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine moonshine, sugar, and water. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and add peppermint extract, cocoa powder, and salt. Stir well to combine.
3. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers for storage.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with crushed candy canes or chocolate shavings if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Lemon Drop Moonshine
Brighten up your evening with this refreshing twist on traditional moonshine. This citrusy concoction is perfect for sipping on a warm night or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of good quality moonshine (at least 80 proof)
– 1 cup of lemon-flavored simple syrup (see below for recipe)
– 1/4 cup of fresh lime juice
– 1 tablespoon of triple sec or other orange-flavored liqueur
Lemon-Flavored Simple Syrup Recipe:
– 2 cups water
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
Combine water and sugar in a saucepan. Heat, stirring until dissolved. Add lemon juice and remove from heat.
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine moonshine, lemon-flavored simple syrup, and lime juice. Stir well.
2. Add triple sec or orange-flavored liqueur. Stir gently to combine.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
4. Serve over ice and garnish with a slice of lemon, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Just mix and chill.
Gingerbread Moonshine
Create a unique and delicious spirit by infusing your favorite gingerbread spices into moonshine. This sweet and spicy concoction is perfect for sipping on a cold winter’s night or as a gift for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup moonshine (at least 50% ABV)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 6 whole cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Combine the moonshine, brown sugar, and chopped ginger in a large glass jar or container.
2. Add the cinnamon stick, cloves, and nutmeg to the mixture.
3. Seal the jar and store it in a cool, dark place for at least 4 weeks, shaking occasionally.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another container. Discard the solids.
5. Store the Gingerbread Moonshine in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Cooking Time: None required! This recipe is a slow-infusion process that allows the flavors to meld together over time.
Maple Pecan Moonshine
Transform your home into a moonshining haven with this sweet and nutty recipe that combines the richness of maple syrup and the crunch of pecans.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup moonshine (or high-proof neutral grain spirit)
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine the maple syrup and brown sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 180°F.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the moonshine, pecans, and vanilla extract.
3. Let the mixture cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container for storage.
Cooking Time: None; simply let the mixture cool and store!
Raspberry Cheesecake Moonshine
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique recipe that combines the tartness of raspberries with the richness of cheesecake. Perfect for special occasions or just a night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups ripe raspberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 cup moonshine (or your preferred spirit)
– 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Combine raspberries, sugar, and water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Strain the raspberry mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing on solids to release excess juice.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together moonshine, gelatin, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until dissolved.
4. Combine the two mixtures in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth.
5. Pour the mixture into a clean glass bottle and store in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a no-cook, simple infusion process.
Pumpkin Spice Moonshine
Elevate your fall gatherings with this unique and flavorful moonshine recipe. With the warm spices of pumpkin pie, this drink is sure to be a hit at any autumn-themed party or gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon white whiskey (or moonshine)
– 2 cups pumpkin puree
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup cinnamon syrup (see note)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions:
1. Combine the moonshine, pumpkin puree, and brown sugar in a large pot.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
3. Add the cinnamon syrup, nutmeg, and ginger. Stir to combine.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
5. Strain the moonshine into glass jugs or bottles for storage.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (heating) + cooling time
Note: To make cinnamon syrup, combine 2 cups water with 1 cup sugar and 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Let cool before using.
Vanilla Bean Moonshine
Elevate your cocktail game with this smooth and creamy Vanilla Bean Moonshine recipe, perfect for sipping on a warm evening or sharing with friends.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup moonshine (or high-proof vodka)
• 1/2 cup simple syrup
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 bean, split lengthwise and scraped for seeds
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine moonshine, simple syrup, and scraped vanilla bean.
2. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 160°F (71°C).
3. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle.
5. Add heavy cream and vanilla extract. Stir well to combine.
6. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: None required
Root Beer Float Moonshine
Take a trip down memory lane with this unique moonshine recipe that combines the flavors of root beer and vanilla ice cream. Perfect for warm weather or as a sweet treat anytime!
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of root beer-flavored moonshine (at least 40% ABV)
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Add vanilla extract and whisk until combined.
3. Pour in the root beer-flavored moonshine and stir gently to combine.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Serve the Root Beer Float Moonshine over ice cubes and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cold-infusion recipe.
Summary
Get ready to shine with these 20 classic moonshine recipes for your 5-gallon still! From traditional corn mash to sweet tea and everything in between, this collection has something for every taste. Try making Apple Pie Moonshine, Peach Cobbler Moonshine, or Cherry Bomb Moonshine for a taste of the South. Or go sweet with Strawberry Shortcake Moonshine or Banana Pudding Moonshine. Whatever your flavor, these recipes are sure to impress and quench your thirst.
