Name: Apple Pie Moonshine Cocktail
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 oz apple pie moonshine; 4 oz apple juice (or spiced apple cider); 1 oz cinnamon simple syrup (see below); 1 oz fresh squeezed lemon juice; Apple slices, for garnish; Cinnamon sticks, for garnish; 1 cup water; 1 cup granulated sugar; 3 cinnamon sticks

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This Apple Pie Moonshine Cocktail captures the comforting essence of a fresh-baked apple pie in a glass. With a blend of sweet apple juice, spiced cinnamon syrup, tart lemon, and smooth apple pie moonshine, it’s an irresistible drink for fall and winter. I like how easy it is to make, whether I’m enjoying a quiet evening or entertaining a crowd.

Apple Pie Moonshine Cocktail

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this cocktail balances cozy apple pie flavors with the brightness of lemon and the warmth of cinnamon. It’s smooth, a little sweet, and surprisingly strong, so it sneaks up on me in the best way. I can serve it chilled over ice or warm it up for a comforting drink by the fire. The ingredients are simple, but the flavors are anything but.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

apple pie moonshine
apple juice
cinnamon simple syrup
fresh squeezed lemon juice
apple slices, for garnish
cinnamon sticks, for garnish

For the cinnamon simple syrup:

water
granulated sugar
cinnamon sticks

Directions

I start by making the cinnamon simple syrup: I combine equal parts water and sugar with cinnamon sticks in a saucepan, bring it to a boil, then let it steep for 30 minutes off heat. After straining and cooling, it’s ready to use.

To mix the cocktail, I combine the apple pie moonshine, apple juice, cinnamon syrup, and lemon juice in a shaker with ice. I stir it for 10–15 seconds to chill it well, strain, then serve over fresh ice. A garnish of apple slices and a cinnamon stick makes it look just as good as it tastes.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 2 servings and takes only 5 minutes to prepare. If I need to serve more guests, it multiplies easily and works great as a pre-mixed batch cocktail stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

Variations

There are so many ways I make this cocktail my own:

I’ve used spiced apple cider instead of juice for extra flavor.
A splash of bourbon gives it more depth and strength.
Sometimes I skip the syrup and use high-quality maple syrup for a different twist.
When I’m feeling indulgent, I top it with cinnamon-spiced whipped cream or a caramel drizzle.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover cocktail mix in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. If I’m serving it warm, I gently heat it on the stove (never boil) before serving. The cinnamon simple syrup itself lasts in the fridge for up to two weeks.

FAQs

What is apple pie moonshine, and where do I get it?

Apple pie moonshine is a flavored spirit that tastes like spiced apple pie. I usually find it in liquor stores alongside flavored whiskeys or craft spirits. Midnight Moon, Ole Smoky, and Sugarlands Shine are all solid choices.

Can I make this cocktail in advance?

Yes, I often mix a big batch ahead of time (without ice) and store it in the fridge. When it’s time to serve, I shake or stir it well and pour it over fresh ice.

What can I use instead of cinnamon simple syrup?

If I’m short on time, I swap in a good maple syrup or store-bought cinnamon syrup. But I really like the homemade version—it’s simple and packed with flavor.

Is it better served hot or cold?

I like it both ways. Cold, it’s refreshing and crisp. Warm, it’s comforting and cozy. It depends on my mood—and the weather.

Can I make this non-alcoholic?

Absolutely. I just skip the moonshine and use spiced apple cider with a splash of lemon. It still tastes amazing and works for everyone.

Conclusion

This Apple Pie Moonshine Cocktail is one of those drinks I come back to every fall and winter. It’s festive, flavorful, and ridiculously easy to make. Whether I’m serving it at a holiday party or sipping it on a chilly night, it always delivers a delicious dose of comfort.