Inspired by the traditional Appalachian drink, this non-alcoholic Apple Pie Moonshine-Style Drink captures the essence of fall without alcohol. Named after the legendary moonshiner Popcorn Sutton, this sweet and spiced beverage melds the flavors of apple pie with the warmth of spices. It’s a delightful concoction perfect for social gatherings or cozy evenings, offering the taste of apple, cinnamon, and nutmeg in every sip.
What is Popcorn Sutton Apple Pie Moonshine?
This version of Popcorn Sutton’s Apple Pie Moonshine emulates the homemade alcoholic beverage but without the alcohol. It combines apple juice, apple cider, sugar, and a blend of spices to recreate the rich, spiced, and sweet flavors traditionally achieved with high-proof moonshine. This drink is crafted to mimic the smooth and warming characteristics of the original, making it suitable for everyone to enjoy.
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Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Authentic Appalachian Taste: Enjoy a genuine Appalachian flavor experience with all the warmth of traditional moonshine drinks, minus the alcohol.
- Simple, Wholesome Ingredients: All you need are a few common kitchen ingredients to whip up this inviting drink.
- Ideal for Gifting: This non-alcoholic moonshine makes a thoughtful and unique gift for any occasion, especially during the festive season.
- Fully Customizable: Tailor the sweetness and intensity of the spices to suit your preferences, creating a drink that’s perfectly adjusted to your taste.
- Perfect for Any Gathering: Whether it’s a family dinner, a bonfire night, or a holiday party, this drink is sure to be a hit, allowing everyone to enjoy the flavor of moonshine safely.
Ingredients Needed to Make Popcorn Sutton Apple Pie Moonshine
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious apple pie-flavored moonshine:
- 1-gallon apple cider
- 1-gallon apple juice
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 6-8 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Non-alcoholic spirit or a mix of apple cider vinegar and whiskey essence to taste
Equipment
- Large Pot: For simmering the apple juice and spices.
- Whisk: Stirring the ingredients together.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: These are used to measure the ingredients accurately.
- Jars or Bottles: For storing the finished moonshine.
- Funnel: For pouring the moonshine into jars or bottles.
Instructions to Make Popcorn Sutton Apple Pie Moonshine
- Simmer the Apple Mixture: In a large pot, combine the apple cider, apple juice, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, ground cinnamon (if using), and nutmeg. Whisk the mixture to dissolve the sugar.
- Heat the Mixture: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Let it simmer for about 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the sugars are fully dissolved and the spices are well incorporated.
- Cool the Mixture: Remove the pot from the heat and allow the apple cider mixture to cool completely. This step is crucial as it ensures the flavors meld without the evaporation associated with alcohol.
- Add the Non-Alcoholic Spirit: Once the apple mixture is completely cool, stir in your choice of non-alcoholic spirit or a blend of apple cider vinegar and whiskey essence. Mix well to combine.
- Bottle the Drink: Using a funnel, pour the apple pie moonshine-style drink into clean glass jars or bottles. Drop a cinnamon stick into each jar to enhance the flavor.
- Let It Rest: Seal the jars or bottles tightly and store them in the refrigerator. For the best flavor, let the drink sit for at least 1-2 days before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: When ready to serve, pour the non-alcoholic apple pie moonshine-style drink into glasses. It can be served chilled or over ice. For a warming experience during colder months, gently heat before serving.
What Goes Well With Popcorn Sutton Apple Pie Moonshine
This sweet and spiced moonshine pairs well with a variety of treats:
- Apple Pie: Serve alongside a slice of classic apple pie for a dessert-inspired pairing.
- Cheese and Crackers: The richness of cheese complements the sweet and tangy flavors of the moonshine.
- Charcuterie Board: A mix of cured meats, nuts, and dried fruits pairs wonderfully with the spiced notes of the drink.
- Roasted Nuts: Warm, roasted nuts like almonds or pecans enhance the cozy fall flavors in the moonshine.
- Pumpkin Desserts: Pair with pumpkin pie or pumpkin bread for a festive fall treat.
Essential Tips for Perfecting Popcorn Sutton Apple Pie Moonshine
Follow these tips to ensure your apple pie moonshine turns out perfectly:
- Use High-Quality Apple Cider: Fresh, high-quality apple cider will give your moonshine a richer, more authentic flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Cooling Step: Make sure the apple mixture is completely cool before adding the moonshine or high-proof alcohol to preserve the alcohol content.
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet drink, reduce the amount of sugar to your taste.
- Let It Rest: For the best flavor, let the moonshine sit for at least a week before serving. The longer it sits, the more the flavors will meld together.
- Store Properly: Keep the moonshine in a cool, dark place to preserve the flavor and alcohol content.
Variations of Popcorn Sutton Apple Pie Moonshine
Feel free to get creative with this recipe by trying different variations:
- Spiced Apple Pie Moonshine: Add extra spices like cloves or allspice for a deeper spiced flavor.
- Citrus Apple Pie Moonshine: Add a couple of lemon or orange slices to the pot while simmering the apple cider for a bright, citrusy note.
- Caramel Apple Moonshine: Stir in caramel sauce or caramel-flavored syrup for a sweet, dessert-like version.
- Honey Apple Pie Moonshine: Replace some of the sugar with honey for a natural sweetness and richer flavor.
- Vanilla Apple Pie Moonshine: Add a vanilla bean to the pot while simmering for a more intense vanilla flavor.
Storing Popcorn Sutton Apple Pie Moonshine: Best Practices
If you have leftovers or want to make extra for later, here’s how to store it properly:
- Store in Glass Jars: Keep the moonshine in tightly sealed glass jars or bottles. Mason jars work well for this.
- Keep in a Cool, Dark Place: Store the moonshine in a cool, dark place like a pantry or cellar to preserve its flavor.
- Long Shelf Life: Apple pie moonshine can last for several months when stored properly.
FAQs
Can You Make Apple Pie Moonshine Without Alcohol?
Yes, you can make a non-alcoholic version of apple pie moonshine by using apple juice and apple cider as the base and adding spices like cinnamon and nutmeg to mimic the traditional flavor. Adding a non-alcoholic spirit or apple cider vinegar mixed with whiskey essence can enhance the complexity of the drink without including alcohol.
What Ingredients Are Needed for Non-Alcoholic Apple Pie Moonshine?
To make non-alcoholic apple pie moonshine, you’ll need apple juice, apple cider, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and optionally, non-alcoholic spirit or a combination of apple cider vinegar and whiskey essence. These ingredients blend together to create a flavorful and festive drink suitable for all ages.
How Long Does Non-Alcoholic Apple Pie Moonshine Last?
Non-alcoholic apple pie moonshine can last up to two weeks when stored in the refrigerator. Ensure it’s kept in a tightly sealed container to maintain freshness. The drink’s flavor may even enhance slightly over time as the spices meld with the apple base.
Is Non-Alcoholic Apple Pie Moonshine Suitable for Children?
Yes, the non-alcoholic version of apple pie moonshine is suitable for children as it contains no alcohol. It’s a fun and festive way to let children enjoy the flavors of a traditional adult beverage during family gatherings and special occasions, making it a family-friendly choice.
Final Words
Popcorn Sutton’s Apple Pie Moonshine is a delightful and flavorful drink that captures the warmth and coziness of fall. With its sweet apple flavor and warming spices, it’s the perfect drink to share with friends or enjoy by the fire on a chilly evening. Whether you’re giving it as a gift or keeping it for yourself, this moonshine is sure to impress with its bold and nostalgic flavors. Enjoy!
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Non-Alcoholic Apple Pie Moonshine-Style Drink Recipe
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 30
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 1x
- Category: Beverages
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Description
This version of Popcorn Sutton’s Apple Pie Moonshine emulates the homemade alcoholic beverage but without the alcohol. It combines apple juice, apple cider, sugar, and a blend of spices to recreate the rich, spiced, and sweet flavors traditionally achieved with high-proof moonshine. This drink is crafted to mimic the smooth and warming characteristics of the original, making it suitable for everyone to enjoy.
Ingredients
-
- 1-gallon apple cider
-
- 1-gallon apple juice
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
-
- 6–8 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Non-alcoholic spirit or a mix of apple cider vinegar and whiskey essence to taste
Instructions
- Simmer the Apple Mixture: In a large pot, combine the apple cider, apple juice, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, ground cinnamon (if using), and nutmeg. Whisk the mixture to dissolve the sugar.
- Heat the Mixture: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Let it simmer for about 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the sugars are fully dissolved and the spices are well incorporated.
- Cool the Mixture: Remove the pot from the heat and allow the apple cider mixture to cool completely. This step is crucial as it ensures the flavors meld without the evaporation associated with alcohol.
- Add the Non-Alcoholic Spirit: Once the apple mixture is completely cool, stir in your choice of non-alcoholic spirit or a blend of apple cider vinegar and whiskey essence. Mix well to combine.
- Bottle the Drink: Using a funnel, pour the apple pie moonshine-style drink into clean glass jars or bottles. Drop a cinnamon stick into each jar to enhance the flavor.
- Let It Rest: Seal the jars or bottles tightly and store them in the refrigerator. For the best flavor, let the drink sit for at least 1-2 days before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: When ready to serve, pour the non-alcoholic apple pie moonshine-style drink into glasses. It can be served chilled or over ice. For a warming experience during colder months, gently heat before serving.