Experience the Authentic Taste of Old Smoky with These Classic Moonshine Recipes
Moonshining has a rich history that dates back to the Prohibition era, when clever distillers would secretly brew and sell their own liquor. Today, moonshine is enjoying a resurgence in popularity, thanks in part to its unique flavor profiles and versatility in cocktails. If you’re looking to try your hand at making some authentic Old Smoky-style moonshine, we’ve got you covered! Here are 18 classic recipes that showcase the best of this beloved spirit.
From sweet treats like Smoky Apple Pie Moonshine to spicy sippers like Traditional Cinnamon Fire Moonshine, these recipes will transport you back in time to the Appalachian hills where moonshining was born. Whether you’re a seasoned distiller or just starting out, these tried-and-true formulas are sure to yield a batch of delicious and potent ‘shine that’ll impress even the most discerning palates.
Smoky Apple Pie Moonshine
Smoky Apple Pie Moonshine Recipe
This moonshine recipe combines the flavors of apple pie with a hint of smokiness, perfect for sipping on a chilly evening.
- Ingredients:
- 1 gallon neutral grain spirit (at least 80% ABV)
- 4 cups apple cider
- 2 cups sugar
- 2 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp smoked sea salt
- 1/4 cup bourbon barrel chips (optional)
- Instructions:
- Mix apple cider, sugar, and vanilla extract in a large pot. Heat until the sugar dissolves.
- Add smoked sea salt and stir to combine.
- Pour the mixture into a sterile, food-grade container. If using bourbon barrel chips, add them now.
- Allow the mixture to age for at least 2 weeks, shaking occasionally.
- Serve chilled, or store in an airtight container for up to 6 months.
Old Fashioned Corn Mash Moonshine
A classic Appalachian recipe that’s been passed down through generations, this corn mash moonshine is a rich and smooth spirit perfect for sipping on its own or mixing into cocktails.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of cornmeal
– 1 cup of water
– 1/4 cup of sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon of yeast (active dry or brewer’s)
– 1 gallon of bourbon whiskey (at least 90 proof)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the cornmeal and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 180°F.
2. Remove from heat and stir in sugar until dissolved.
3. Allow the mixture to cool to around 100°F.
4. Add yeast and let it sit for 12-24 hours to allow fermentation to take place.
5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a large jug or container.
6. Add the bourbon whiskey and stir well to combine.
Cooking Time: None (distillation process only)
Notes: This recipe requires patience, as the fermentation process can take several days. Make sure to monitor the temperature and adjust as needed to avoid contamination or spoilage. Happy sipping!
Smoky Peach Cobbler Moonshine
Elevate your dessert game with this unique and delicious Smoky Peach Cobbler Moonshine recipe, perfect for a special occasion or as a gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup peaches, sliced
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup moonshine (100 proof)
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 pie crust, homemade or store-bought
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine peaches, brown sugar, moonshine, smoked paprika, vanilla extract, and salt.
3. Mix well until the peaches are evenly coated with the mixture.
4. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch round baking dish.
5. Pour the peach mixture into the pie crust.
6. Dot the top of the cobbler with melted butter.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
8. Remove from oven and let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Traditional Mountain Dew Moonshine
Traditional Mountain Dew Moonshine Recipe
Get ready to experience a sweet and tangy twist on traditional moonshine with this unique recipe!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of cornmeal
– 1 cup of sugar
– 1/4 cup of citric acid (optional)
– 1 gallon of water
– 1/2 cup of Mountain Dew syrup (or to taste)
Instructions:
1. Combine the cornmeal, sugar, and citric acid (if using) in a large pot.
2. Add the gallon of water to the pot and bring to a boil, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the Mountain Dew syrup until fully incorporated.
5. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass container.
6. Allow the moonshine to cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 1 gallon
Smoky Cherry Bomb Moonshine
Get ready to ignite your senses with this smoldering blend of sweet cherries and savory smoke. This moonshine recipe is perfect for those who crave a bold, complex flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of cherry juice (mix of tart and sweet cherries)
– 1 cup of water
– 1/4 cup of brown sugar
– 1/4 cup of smoked sea salt
– 1/4 cup of vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup of moonshine base (100-proof or higher)
Instructions:
1. Combine cherry juice, water, and brown sugar in a large pot. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add smoked sea salt and vanilla extract to the mixture. Stir until well combined.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Strain the mixture into a sanitized container or jug. Discard solids.
5. Add moonshine base to the mixture, stirring gently to combine.
6. Let the mixture age for at least 2 weeks in a cool, dark place.
Cooking Time: None
Old Smoky Blackberry Moonshine
A classic Appalachian recipe gets a boost from the sweetness of blackberries in this moonshine recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups blackberries, crushed
– 1 gallon water
– 4 cups sugar
– 2 gallons corn mash
– 1/2 cup yeast (Champagne or Baker’s)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Combine crushed blackberries and sugar in a large pot.
2. Add water to the pot, stirring until sugar is dissolved.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
4. In a separate container, combine corn mash and yeast. Stir until yeast dissolves.
5. Add corn mash mixture to the blackberry mixture, stirring well.
6. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
7. Transfer moonshine to a clean glass container with a tight-fitting lid.
8. Store in a dark place for at least 30 days before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes + storage time
Smoky Honey Whiskey Moonshine
Transforming the rich flavors of whiskey into a smooth, smoky moonshine is an art form. This recipe combines the warmth of honey and the mystique of smoke to create a unique and intriguing spirit.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon corn whiskey (or other clear whiskey)
– 1 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons applewood-smoked sea salt
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon activated charcoal powder (optional, for color)
Instructions:
1. Combine whiskey, honey, smoked sea salt, and vanilla extract in a large pot or stainless steel container.
2. Stir until the honey dissolves, then let it steep at room temperature for 24-48 hours to allow flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another container. Discard solids.
4. If desired, add activated charcoal powder and stir well.
5. Bottle the moonshine in glass containers with tight-fitting lids.
Cooking Time:
24-48 hours (steeping), 0 minutes (no cooking time required)
Classic Sugar Shine Moonshine
Get ready to shine with this timeless recipe that combines the smoothness of sugar and the warmth of moonshine!
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon corn mash (or 2 cups store-bought whiskey)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon citric acid (optional, but recommended for clarity)
– 1 quart water
Instructions:
1. Combine the corn mash and sugar in a large pot or container.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
4. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container.
5. Add the citric acid (if using) and stir well.
6. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days to allow the flavors to mature.
Cooking Time: None – this recipe is a simple infusion process!
Smoky Spiced Apple Moonshine
A twist on traditional apple moonshine, this recipe adds a smoky depth and warm spices to create a unique and complex flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs apples, chopped
– 1 lb sugar
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 cup smoked whiskey (such as Lapsang Souchong)
– 2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/2 tsp ground cloves
– 1/4 tsp ground allspice
Instructions:
1. Combine apples, sugar, and water in a large pot.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl.
4. Add smoked whiskey, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice to the apple mixture.
5. Stir well to combine, then let it sit at room temperature for 2 days.
6. After 2 days, strain the mixture again through cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
7. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes + 2 days of steeping time
Old Smoky Pineapple Moonshine
Get ready to taste the sweet and tangy combination of pineapple and smoky flavors with this unique moonshine recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of cornmeal
– 1 cup of sugar
– 1/2 gallon of water
– 1/4 cup of pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons of smoked whiskey or bourbon (optional)
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine cornmeal and sugar.
2. Gradually add in water while stirring to avoid lumps.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in pineapple juice, apple cider vinegar, smoked whiskey or bourbon (if using), and vanilla extract.
5. Allow the mixture to cool and settle for at least 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Smoky Maple Bourbon Moonshine
This recipe combines the smoothness of bourbon with the sweetness of maple syrup and a hint of smokiness, creating a unique and delicious moonshine.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon corn whiskey or white light corn liquor
– 1 cup maple syrup
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup smoked sea salt (such as Lapsang souchong)
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Combine the corn whiskey, maple syrup, brown sugar, and smoked sea 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 30 minutes.
3. Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool slightly.
4. Add the vanilla extract and stir well.
5. Strain the moonshine into a large glass jug or container to remove any sediment.
6. Store the moonshine in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Traditional Cinnamon Fire Moonshine
This classic recipe combines the warmth of cinnamon with the fiery spirit of moonshine, creating a unique and flavorful drink perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups moonshine (at least 80% ABV)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 cinnamon sticks (broken into smaller pieces)
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine the moonshine, sugar, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add the broken cinnamon sticks and ground cinnamon to the mixture. Stir well to combine.
3. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass container. Discard the solids.
5. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a steeping process rather than cooking.
Smoky Lemon Drop Moonshine
Smoky Lemon Drop Moonshine Recipe
This moonshine recipe combines the brightness of lemon with the smokiness of whiskey to create a unique and refreshing flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon of corn whiskey or moonshine
– 2 cups of sugar
– 4 cups of water
– 1/2 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup of smoked simple syrup (see below for recipe)
– 1/4 teaspoon of citric acid
Smoked Simple Syrup Recipe:
– 1 cup of granulated sugar
– 1 cup of water
– 1/4 cup of liquid smoke
Instructions:
1. Combine the moonshine, sugar, and water in a large pot. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Remove the pot from the heat and add the lemon juice, smoked simple syrup, and citric acid. Stir well to combine.
3. Let the mixture cool to room temperature before transferring it to a glass jug or container with a tight-fitting lid.
4. Store the moonshine in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None. This is a cold-infusion recipe, meaning that the flavors will meld together as the mixture sits in the refrigerator.
Note: As with any homemade moonshine recipe, please ensure you follow proper distillation and handling procedures to avoid accidents or injuries.
Old Smoky Strawberry Moonshine
A sweet and sassy twist on traditional moonshine, this strawberry-infused spirit is perfect for sipping on a warm summer evening or sharing with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon of corn whiskey (or your preferred moonshine base)
– 2 cups of fresh strawberries, pureed
– 1 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup of water
– 1 tablespoon of strawberry extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the moonshine, strawberry puree, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
3. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass jar.
4. Add the water and strawberry extract (if using). Stir well.
5. Store in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a flavor-infusion process rather than a cooking recipe.
Smoky Vanilla Bean Moonshine
Elevate your moonshining game with this rich and creamy recipe, infused with the deep flavors of vanilla bean and a hint of smokiness.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon of high-proof moonshine (at least 160 proof)
– 2 cups of vanilla bean extract
– 1 cup of brown sugar
– 1/4 cup of smoked sea salt
– 1/4 cup of activated charcoal powder (optional, for color)
Instructions:
1. Combine the moonshine, vanilla bean extract, and brown sugar in a large pot.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and let it steep for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
5. Add the smoked sea salt and activated charcoal powder (if using). Stir well to combine.
6. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Cooking Time: 24 hours
Classic Pecan Pie Moonshine
Moist and rich, this pecan pie moonshine is a perfect blend of flavors, with a hint of bourbon to give it a grown-up twist. Perfect for sipping by the fire or sharing with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups corn syrup
– 1 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey (at least 80 proof)
– 1/2 cup pecan halves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together corn syrup, brown sugar, granulated sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, salt, and nutmeg until well combined.
3. Stir in bourbon whiskey until smooth.
4. Fold in pecan halves.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Smoky Ginger Snap Moonshine
Get ready to elevate your moonshine game with this bold and refreshing recipe that combines the spicy warmth of ginger with a hint of smokiness. This unique concoction is perfect for sipping on its own or using as a base for creative cocktails.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups moonshine (at least 80% ABV)
– 1/4 cup fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Combine moonshine, ginger, brown sugar, and water in a large pot. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth into a clean container, discarding solids.
4. Add smoked paprika and vanilla extract. Stir well to combine.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes + steeping time
Old Smoky Blueberry Moonshine
Get ready to taste the smooth, sweet, and tangy flavors of the Old Smoky Blueberry Moonshine! This recipe is perfect for those who love a good blueberry flavor in their moonshine.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of blueberries
– 1 gallon of pure corn mash liquor (moonshine)
– 1 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon of citric acid
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Rinse the blueberries and remove any stems or debris.
2. Combine the blueberries with the moonshine in a large pot and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for about 30 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth into another pot, discarding the solids.
5. Add sugar and citric acid to the liquid, stirring until dissolved.
6. Let it cool and then add water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
Cooking Time: About 2 hours (including chilling time)
Summary
Get ready to taste the authentic flavors of the past with these classic old smoky moonshine recipes. From sweet treats like Smoky Apple Pie Moonshine and Classic Pecan Pie Moonshine, to fruity delights like Old Smoky Strawberry Moonshine and Smoky Cherry Bomb Moonshine, there’s something for every palate. Other highlights include Traditional Mountain Dew Moonshine, Smoky Maple Bourbon Moonshine, and Old Fashioned Corn Mash Moonshine. Whether you’re a moonshine newbie or an old pro, these recipes are sure to transport you back in time with their unique flavor profiles and rich history.
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