Blue Moon has become a favorite for many craft beer lovers thanks to its smooth, citrusy flavor and refreshing finish. This Belgian-style wheat ale stands out with its unique blend of malt and orange peel, making it a perfect choice for warm days or casual gatherings. We’ve crafted a Blue Moon beer clone recipe that captures all those signature flavors so you can enjoy this classic brew right at home.
Brewing your own Blue Moon clone lets us control every ingredient and tweak the taste to our liking. Whether you’re a seasoned homebrewer or just starting out, this recipe offers a straightforward way to replicate the crisp, slightly sweet profile that makes Blue Moon so popular. Let’s dive into the process and bring a taste of this beloved beer to our own taps.
Ingredients
To craft our Blue Moon Beer Clone, we need to gather specific ingredients that capture its distinctive Belgian-style wheat ale character. Each component plays a crucial role in mimicking the beer’s smooth texture and citrus aroma.
Malts and Grains
The base of this clone recipe relies on a blend of malts and grains that provide the creamy mouthfeel and subtle sweetness typical of Blue Moon.
- 6.6 lbs Pilsner malt (provides a light, crisp malt foundation)
- 4.4 lbs White wheat malt (adds body and smoothness)
- 0.5 lbs Acidulated malt (helps with pH balance and enhances crispness)
- 0.25 lbs Carapils malt (improves head retention and volume)
Hops
To balance the sweetness and add mild bitterness without overpowering the citrus notes, we use:
| Hop Variety | Amount | Addition Time | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Magnum | 0.5 oz | 60 minutes (start) | Provides clean bitterness |
| Cascade | 0.75 oz | 15 minutes | Adds floral and citrus aroma |
Yeast
The yeast strains are essential for the characteristic Belgian-style fermentation, producing subtle fruity esters and a dry finish.
- Wyeast 3944 Belgian Witbier yeast or
- White Labs WLP400 Belgian Wit Ale yeast
Both strains deliver the signature flavor profile of Blue Moon with moderate attenuation and mild spice notes.
Additional Flavorings
To replicate Blue Moon’s unique citrus and spice character, we add natural flavorings during the last minutes of the boil or at packaging.
- 1 oz Valencia orange peel (fresh or dried, for bright citrus aroma)
- 0.5 oz Coriander seeds (lightly crushed, for subtle spice)
- Optional: 0.25 oz Curacao orange peel (for added depth and sweetness)
These key additions round out the clone recipe’s flavor spectrum and give it the refreshing finish we love.
Equipment Needed
To successfully brew our Blue Moon Beer Clone at home, we need to gather precise equipment that ensures control over every step of the brewing process. Each tool plays a vital role in developing the beer’s signature smooth and citrusy profile.
Essential Brewing Equipment
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Brewing kettle (5 gallons) | Boils the wort and allows full ingredient extraction |
| Fermentation vessel | Holds the beer during fermentation, usually glass or food-grade plastic |
| Airlock and stopper | Allows CO2 to escape while preventing contamination |
| Hydrometer or refractometer | Measures specific gravity to track fermentation progress |
| Thermometer | Monitors temperature at critical stages of brewing |
| Large brewing spoon or paddle | Stirring and mixing ingredients thoroughly |
| Sanitizer solution | Sanitizes all equipment to avoid contamination |
| Grain mill or pre-crushed grains | If using whole grains, ensures proper crushing |
| Strainer or mesh bag | Holds grains for the mash or hops during the boil |
| Measuring spoons and cups | Accurate measurement of adjuncts like Valencia orange peel and coriander seeds |
| Bottling bucket with spigot | Transfers fermented beer for bottling |
| Bottles and capping supplies | Stores finished beer for carbonation and aging |
Optional but Recommended
- Wort chiller: Rapidly cools the wort post-boil, reducing contamination risk.
- pH meter: Helps adjust mash pH for optimal flavor extraction and mouthfeel.
- Pump or siphon: Transfers liquids with minimal oxygen exposure.
- Bottle filler: Controls liquid flow for clean and efficient bottling.
Brewing Workflow Highlights
“Precision equipment ensures that our Blue Moon Beer Clone captures the perfect balance of malt sweetness and citrus brightness.”
By using a brewing kettle sized for at least 5 gallons, we have enough volume to develop complexity. Maintaining consistent temperature with a thermometer throughout mash and fermentation helps express the character of the chosen yeast strain (Wyeast 3944 or White Labs WLP400). An airlock guarantees a clean fermentation environment while letting CO2 release naturally.
Sanitizing all containers and tools before contact with wort or beer is crucial to preserving purity and flavor integrity. The hydrometer’s gravity readings guide us to judge fermentation progress and readiness for bottling.
Gathering the right equipment lays a solid foundation for brewing our homemade Blue Moon Beer Clone with confidence and precision, setting us up for flavorful and aromatic results.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To ensure the best results when brewing our Blue Moon Beer Clone recipe, preparation is key. Following these make-ahead instructions helps streamline the brewing process and enhances the beer’s flavor and aroma.
Prepare and Measure Ingredients in Advance
- Measure all malt grains including Pilsner malt, White wheat malt, Acidulated malt, and Carapils malt precisely as per the recipe.
- Prepare hops by weighing Magnum and Cascade hops according to the bitterness and aroma schedule.
- Peel and dry the Valencia orange peel and toast the coriander seeds ahead of time to intensify their flavor impact.
Sanitize All Brewing Equipment
- Sanitize the 5-gallon brewing kettle, fermentation vessel, airlock, hydrometer, and any utensils at least 30 minutes before starting to prevent contamination.
- Use a sanitizer solution and ensure thorough rinsing with clean water.
Make Starter Yeast Culture
- Prepare a yeast starter with Wyeast 3944 or White Labs WLP400 at least 24 hours before brewing.
- This ensures active fermentation and consistent flavor profile.
| Item | Preparation Time Before Brewing | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Malt Grains & Hops | 1 day | Accurate measurement & drying |
| Orange Peel & Coriander | 1-2 days | Flavor concentration |
| Brewing Equipment | 30 min before use | Sanitation |
| Yeast Starter | 24 hours | Healthy fermentation |
Prepare Water Profile
- Adjust water pH to ideally between 5.2 and 5.6 using acidulated malt or food-grade acids a few hours prior to mashing.
- This optimizes enzyme activity and malt extraction.
Wort Boiling Schedule
- Set up your brewing kettle and heating source early so you can start boiling at the desired time without interruption.
- Pre-boiling the Valencia orange peel and coriander seeds in a small amount of wort 10 minutes before the end of the boil enhances their essential oils release.
By adhering to these make-ahead steps, we maintain control over the entire brewing process of our Blue Moon Beer Clone. This preparation ensures a smooth brew day and a final product with the signature crisp, citrus-forward, and slightly sweet characteristics that make Blue Moon so unique.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to brew our Blue Moon Beer Clone with precision and care. Each stage builds flavor and aroma to mirror the iconic Belgian-style wheat ale.
Prep
- Sanitize all brewing equipment thoroughly at least 30 minutes before starting to avoid contamination.
- Prepare a yeast starter culture 24 hours ahead to ensure optimal fermentation activity.
- Measure and crush the following malts exactly: Pilsner malt, White wheat malt, Acidulated malt, and Carapils malt.
- Toast coriander seeds lightly on a dry pan until fragrant, then grind coarsely.
- Peel Valencia oranges carefully avoiding pith, dry the peels for use during the boil.
Mash
- Heat 3.5 gallons of water to 165°F (74°C) and add all crushed grains.
- Maintain mash temperature at 152°F (67°C) for 60 minutes to convert starches into fermentable sugars.
- Stir occasionally to prevent clumping and promote even enzymatic activity.
- After 60 minutes, raise temperature to 170°F (77°C) and mash out for 10 minutes to stop enzymatic activity.
- Drain wort carefully and sparge grains with 2 gallons of 170°F water to rinse remaining sugars.
| Step | Temperature (°F) | Duration | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mash In | 165 | 5 minutes | Mix grains & water |
| Saccharification | 152 | 60 minutes | Convert starch to sugars |
| Mash Out | 170 | 10 minutes | Stop enzymatic activity |
Boil
- Bring wort to a rolling boil, then add Magnum hops for bittering.
- Boil for 60 minutes, adding Cascade hops in the last 15 minutes for aroma.
- Add finely ground toasted coriander seeds and dried Valencia orange peel during the last 5 minutes.
- Maintain a vigorous boil to concentrate flavors and drive off unwanted volatiles.
- Chill wort quickly with a wort chiller to below 70°F as soon as boiling ends.
| Timing | Additions | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 0 minutes | Magnum hops | Bittering |
| 45 minutes | Cascade hops | Aroma |
| 55 minutes | Coriander seeds, orange peel | Flavor & Citrus Character |
Fermentation
- Transfer chilled wort into sanitized fermenter.
- Pitch the Wyeast 3944 or White Labs WLP400 yeast starter for authentic Belgian-style fermentation.
- Seal fermenter with airlock and maintain temperature between 68-72°F.
- Allow primary fermentation for 10-14 days, monitoring gravity with a hydrometer.
- When fermentation slows and gravity stabilizes, proceed to bottling or kegging.
Bottling or Kegging
- Sanitize bottles, caps, and bottling equipment thoroughly.
- Prepare priming sugar solution and mix gently into fermented beer to carbonate.
- Fill bottles or keg, leaving minimal headspace.
- Cap bottles securely and store at 70°F for carbonation over 10-14 days.
- Chill before serving to experience the full smooth citrus flavor and refreshing finish of our Blue Moon Beer Clone.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy our Blue Moon Beer Clone, we focus on enhancing its signature smooth, citrusy flavor and refreshing finish with perfect pairings and serving techniques. Here’s how we recommend serving our homemade brew to maximize its taste and presentation.
Ideal Glassware
Using the right glass enhances the sensory experience. We suggest:
- Pint Glass (Shaker or Nonic): Classic and versatile, it allows the aromas to swirl and aromas to open up.
- Tulip Glass: Enhances the beer’s aroma and retains the head better, highlighting the citrus notes.
Tip: Pre-chill your glass lightly to keep the beer cool without numbing the flavors.
| Glass Type | Benefit | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Pint Glass | Easy handling, aroma release | Most common, easy to find |
| Tulip Glass | Aroma retention, head support | Ideal for aromatic beers like this |
Serving Temperature
We recommend serving our Blue Moon Beer Clone at 45-50°F (7-10°C). This temperature range:
- Highlights the citrus and subtle spice notes.
- Maintains the beer’s smooth, creamy mouthfeel.
- Avoids masking delicate flavors with excessive cold.
Garnishing Tips
One defining visual cue of Blue Moon is the orange slice garnish. It adds aroma and elegant zest:
- Cut a fresh slice of Valencia orange or navel orange.
- Lightly rub it on the glass rim before placing it in the beer.
- Optional: Add a small sprig of fresh coriander for an herbal note matching our recipe’s spice profile.
Food Pairings
Pairing our Blue Moon Beer Clone with the right foods elevates the tasting experience:
| Food Type | Pairing Reason | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Light seafood | Cleanses palate, complements citrus notes | Grilled shrimp, fish tacos |
| Soft cheeses | Harmonizes creamy malt character | Brie, Camembert |
| Spicy dishes | Balances heat with malt sweetness | Thai curry, spicy chicken wings |
| Fresh salads | Provides refreshing counterpoint | Citrus vinaigrette, arugula salad |
Serving Steps Summary
- Chill glassware lightly to about 50°F.
- Fill with freshly poured Blue Moon Beer Clone, leaving space for a thick foamy head.
- Garnish with a fresh orange slice rubbed on the rim.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the full aroma and flavor profile.
- Offer recommended food pairings alongside for a complete experience.
“Serving our Blue Moon Beer Clone with care not only ensures a refreshing drink but also invites appreciation of its carefully crafted flavor balance.“
By following these serving suggestions, we bring out the best in our Blue Moon Beer Clone, delivering a vibrant and satisfying beer experience every time.
Conclusion
Brewing your own Blue Moon Beer Clone opens up a world of creativity and satisfaction. With the right ingredients, equipment, and attention to detail, we can replicate that signature smooth and citrusy flavor right at home.
Taking control of the brewing process allows us to tweak and perfect the recipe to suit our personal taste. Whether you’re a seasoned homebrewer or just getting started, this clone recipe offers a rewarding way to enjoy a beloved Belgian-style wheat ale anytime.
Let’s raise a glass to crafting great beer and savoring every refreshing sip of our homemade Blue Moon clone.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Blue Moon beer unique?
Blue Moon is a Belgian-style wheat ale known for its smooth, citrusy flavor and refreshing finish, achieved through a blend of malt and the addition of orange peel and coriander.
Can I brew Blue Moon at home?
Yes, by following a clone recipe using specific malts, hops, yeast strains, and natural flavorings like Valencia orange peel, you can brew a close version of Blue Moon at home.
What ingredients are essential for the Blue Moon clone?
Key ingredients include Pilsner malt, White wheat malt, Acidulated malt, Carapils malt, Magnum and Cascade hops, Wyeast 3944 or White Labs WLP400 yeast, plus Valencia orange peel and coriander seeds.
What equipment do I need for homebrewing this beer?
You’ll need a 5-gallon brewing kettle, fermentation vessel, airlock, hydrometer, thermometer, sanitizer solution, and optionally a wort chiller and pH meter for best results.
How should I prepare before brewing?
Prepare and measure ingredients in advance, dry and toast flavorings like orange peel and coriander, sanitize all equipment 30 minutes prior, and make a yeast starter 24 hours ahead for healthy fermentation.
What are the key steps in the brewing process?
Sanitize equipment, mash grains at specific temperatures, sparge to extract sugars, boil with hop and flavor additions, chill wort, pitch yeast, ferment, and finally bottle or keg with proper sanitation and carbonation.
How should I serve a Blue Moon clone for best taste?
Serve in a pint or tulip glass at 45-50°F (7-10°C), garnish with a fresh orange slice, and pair with light seafood, soft cheeses, spicy dishes, or fresh salads to highlight its citrus and spice notes.
Can I customize the Blue Moon clone recipe?
Yes, homebrewing allows you to adjust ingredients and flavorings to suit your taste while maintaining the core characteristics of the original brew.