We love the sweet burst of ripe blueberries in every sip of this homemade moonshine. It’s inspired by the comforting flavors of a classic blueberry pie so we knew we had to merge these two pleasures. Our batches fill the kitchen with a fresh fruity aroma and a hint of cozy spices.
We’ve learned that infused spirits have a long tradition in American households and we’re excited to keep that tradition alive. Our Blueberry Pie Moonshine packs a fun nostalgic punch for any gathering and it makes a great gift too.
We can’t wait to show you how to create this sweet and potent treat in your own kitchen.
Blueberry Pie Moonshine Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 cups fresh blueberries washed and stems removed
- 4 cups water
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 stick cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups high-proof moonshine or grain alcohol
- 1 clean cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Place the blueberries in a large pot with the water and sugar. Stir well to ensure the sugar dissolves evenly.
- Add the cinnamon stick to the pot. Heat over medium and bring to a gentle simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Remove the pot from the heat and let the blueberry mixture cool thoroughly. This cool-down step helps preserve the fresh and sweet blueberry aroma.
- Strain the mixture using a cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer. Press gently to extract all the fruit juices and capture the deep flavor.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and the high-proof moonshine. Swirl slowly to fuse all ingredients.
- Pour the Blueberry Pie Moonshine into sterilized mason jars. Seal each jar tightly and store in a cool and dark place.
Time and Storage Guide
| Step | Time or Method |
|---|---|
| Simmer Blueberry Mixture | 20 minutes |
| Cool Mixture Completely | Approximately 30 minutes |
| Infusion Time in Mason Jars | 2 weeks recommended |
We let our Blueberry Pie Moonshine rest in sealed jars for at least two weeks. This waiting period heightens the sweet and slightly tart notes of the fruit and yields a strong boozy finish. The final spirit boasts a cozy color and bold berry aroma worthy of any nostalgic blueberry dessert.
Equipment And Tools
We rely on a handful of sturdy utensils and storage solutions for our Blueberry Pie Moonshine. Each tool preserves our infusion’s vibrant flavor.
Jars And Containers
We prefer wide-mouth mason jars or glass bottles with secure lids. They make it easier to add our fruit mix without spills. Glass containers also help us monitor the rich hue during infusion. We sterilize them before use to avoid contamination.
| Recommended Jars | Volume |
|---|---|
| Small Mason Jar | 16 oz |
| Large Mason Jar | 32 oz |
| Glass Bottle | 25 oz |
Measuring Tools
We work with simple implements to maintain precise ratios. A set of measuring cups helps us handle water and sugar. A digital scale offers accurate weight readings for larger or smaller batches. A standard teaspoon measures our cinnamon and vanilla extract.
Ingredients
Use these fresh and flavorful items to craft our Blueberry Pie Moonshine. We rinse the blueberries thoroughly before we begin so we can capture that sweet and savory flavor without any impurities.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh blueberries | 3 cups | Rinsed and drained |
| Water | 4 cups | Use filtered water if possible |
| Granulated sugar | 1.5 cups | Adjust for desired sweetness |
| Cinnamon stick | 1 stick | Adds subtle spiciness |
| Vanilla extract | 2 teaspoons | Enhances fragrant pie-like notes |
| High-proof moonshine | 750 mL | Choose a 190-proof neutral spirit |
We measure and prepare our ingredients in advance. We keep our blueberries in a bowl, our sugar in a separate container, and our cinnamon stick within reach. We position everything near the stovetop and ensure our mason jars or bottles are sterilized so we can bottle the moonshine promptly.
- We place the water and granulated sugar in a large saucepan and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- We stir gently for about five minutes until the sugar dissolves fully.
- We add the fresh blueberries and the cinnamon stick. We continue simmering until the blueberries begin to soften.
- We remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature.
- We stir in the vanilla extract. We discard the cinnamon stick if we prefer a milder spice profile.
- We strain the cooked blueberries and reserve the liquid.
- We combine the cooled blueberry syrup with the high-proof moonshine in a separate container. We stir repeatedly to ensure the flavors blend evenly.
- We pour the final mix into sterilized jars or bottles. We store them in a cool dark area for at least two weeks before enjoying our Blueberry Pie Moonshine.
Prep
We gather our ingredients and tools. This ensures a smooth workflow throughout our process.
Clean And Measure Berries
We rinse our fresh blueberries in cool water and remove any loose stems or blemishes. We measure our berries precisely so we can balance their natural sweetness. We pat them dry with paper towels to prevent extra moisture. This simple step preserves the bright taste and enhances the overall infusion.
Set Out Alcohol
We place our high-proof moonshine at room temperature for easier mixing. We check the label to confirm a suitable proof. This spirit will fuse with our berries and bring indulgent warmth to our Blueberry Pie Moonshine.
Cook
We create the Blueberry Pie Moonshine foundation on the stovetop. We keep a steady heat to preserve the sweet aroma and rich color.
Make The Blueberry Base
- We place a medium saucepan over medium heat and add water.
- We sprinkle in the granulated sugar and stir gently until dissolved.
- We add fresh blueberries and a cinnamon stick. We let them simmer for about 15 minutes while stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- We watch for the berries to soften into a fragrant mash.
| Step | Approximate Time |
|---|---|
| Simmer Blueberries | 15 minutes |
Cool Down The Mixture
- We remove the saucepan from the heat source.
- We allow the mixture to reach room temperature.
- We discard the cinnamon stick and strain out the blueberry solids if we prefer a smoother texture.
- We transfer the cooled liquid to our chosen jar to prepare for moonshine infusion.
Infuse
We are ready to finalize our Blueberry Pie Moonshine. The last step is to Infuse these flavors to achieve a smooth and satisfying taste.
Combine Everything
We pour the cooled blueberry mixture into our sterilized jar. Then we add the high proof moonshine. We stir gently to create a rich infusion. This process ensures that every note of sweet berry and subtle spice melds into our spirit.
We secure the lid firmly to preserve aroma and color. We keep the container in a cool dark spot to help maintain its vibrancy.
Rest For Optimal Flavor
We let our mixture rest for at least two weeks. Each passing day binds the fruit essence more closely with the spirit. Below is a quick reference for infusion times and flavor impact:
| Infusion Period | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| 2 weeks | Lightly sweet with gentle berry warmth |
| 3 to 4 weeks | Bold berry taste and deeper spice notes |
We recommend tasting after two weeks. If we crave a robust result we leave it for up to four weeks before we pour ourselves a sample. Our patience rewards us with a deeper character in our Blueberry Pie Moonshine.
Serving And Storage
When we are ready to enjoy our Blueberry Pie Moonshine we can serve it chilled in a shot glass or add it to a favorite cocktail for a bold berry kick. We love pouring a small amount over vanilla ice cream for a sweet twist. For an optional garnish we can drop a few fresh blueberries in each glass.
We recommend storing our Blueberry Pie Moonshine sealed in a cool and dark location such as a pantry or cellar. Properly sealed we can keep it for up to one year while maintaining its rich flavor. If we prefer to keep it chilled we can place the jar in the refrigerator for at least two hours before serving.
We have found that the flavor continues to develop over time so we can refer to the table below for different taste profiles as the infusion matures.
| Storage Duration | Flavor Intensity |
|---|---|
| 2 weeks | Light and sweet with gentle berry warmth |
| 3 weeks | Moderately sweet with deeper spice undertones |
| 4 weeks | Bold berry taste with pronounced spice notes |
| Up to 1 year | Maintains depth and layered flavors |
If our infusion becomes cloudy we can strain it through a fine mesh sieve before serving. That way we preserve its bright color and smooth texture. We also recommend labeling our jars with dates to track each batch and compare flavor over time.
Conclusion
We love how this infusion brings a sense of nostalgia and warmth to every sip. The sweet berry notes and smooth finish invite us to gather around the table and share a taste of homemade tradition.
We hope you savor the bright flavors and discover fun ways to serve this moonshine at your next gathering. It’s a simple yet delightful treat that reminds us why homemade creations hold a special place in our hearts.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?
Using fresh blueberries is recommended for optimal flavor and aroma. However, if fresh berries are unavailable, you can use frozen ones. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before simmering. Frozen berries may release more liquid, so adjust the water or sugar if needed. This minor tweak helps maintain the sweet, concentrated essence of homemade Blueberry Pie Moonshine and ensures a robust flavor. Always confirm the berries have no added sugars or preservatives that might affect the final taste.
2. Why should I sterilize my jars?
Sterilizing jars or bottles helps prevent contamination and preserves the quality of your Blueberry Pie Moonshine. When jars are clean and free from bacteria, the infusion process remains stable, ensuring your moonshine lasts longer without unwanted flavors. Simply wash containers in hot, soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and boil them for at least 10 minutes. Let them cool before adding your infusion. This straightforward step provides peace of mind and keeps your homemade spirit fresh and safe to enjoy.
3. How long should I let the moonshine infuse?
Allow the Blueberry Pie Moonshine to sit for at least two weeks for a pleasant berry flavor. If you can wait longer, three to four weeks will yield a richer, spicier taste. Patience is key as the flavors develop over time. Feel free to sample a small amount after two weeks to check its sweetness and strength. If you desire deeper notes, let it continue steeping. Remember, this resting process infuses the moonshine with bold blueberry essence, making every sip more satisfying.
4. How do I serve Blueberry Pie Moonshine?
Serve chilled in a shot glass for a flavorful sip, or add it to cocktails for a fruity twist. For a sweet indulgence, drizzle it over vanilla ice cream or mix it into dessert sauces. If you want a festive touch, garnish with fresh blueberries or a cinnamon stick. Its versatility allows it to brighten social gatherings, complimenting your favorite mixed drinks or acting as a delightful standalone treat that guests will remember.
5. How should I store my homemade moonshine?
Keep your Blueberry Pie Moonshine in a cool, dark spot with the lid secured. Proper storage protects the infusion’s taste and aroma for up to one year. Label each container with the date, so you can track flavor changes over time. If the mixture becomes cloudy, strain it through a fine mesh sieve. This ensures the final product remains smooth and visually appealing. Consistent darkness and cooler temperatures help preserve its deep, sweet berry profile.
6. Can I adjust the sweetness?
Yes! If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar in the initial simmer or dilute with a bit more high-proof moonshine once the infusion is complete. For a sweeter version, stir a small amount of simple syrup into the finished product until you reach your desired taste. Tweak cautiously and taste-test as you go. This flexibility allows you to personalize your Blueberry Pie Moonshine, ensuring it matches your palate and becomes a true reflection of your homemade spirit mastery.