18 Exciting Homemade Moonshine Recipes for Beginners

Ever dreamed of crafting your own signature spirits right at home? You’re in luck! Our roundup of 18 Exciting Homemade Moonshine Recipes for Beginners is your golden ticket to the thrilling world of DIY distilling. Whether you’re after smooth sippers or bold flavors, these easy-to-follow recipes promise fun, flavor, and a dash of adventure. So, grab your mason jars—it’s time to shine with moonshine!

Classic Corn Mash Moonshine

There’s something irresistibly comforting about a bowl of Classic Corn Mash Moonshine, a dish that brings the warmth of the countryside right to your table.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cornmeal
• 4 cups water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 cup milk

Instructions

1. In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil over high heat.
2. Gradually whisk in 2 cups cornmeal and 1 teaspoon salt, reducing the heat to low to prevent splattering.
3. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens to a porridge-like consistency.
4. Stir in 1/2 cup butter, 1/4 cup honey, and 1 cup milk until fully incorporated and the mash is creamy.
5. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes before serving.

This Classic Corn Mash Moonshine stands out for its velvety texture and the perfect balance of sweetness from the honey, making it a versatile side that pairs beautifully with both savory and sweet dishes.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, try substituting the water with chicken or vegetable broth.

Sweet Apple Pie Moonshine

Warm up your gatherings with this homemade Sweet Apple Pie Moonshine, a delightful twist on classic fall flavors that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 gallon apple cider
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 4 cinnamon sticks
• 1 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 750 ml high-proof grain alcohol (like Everclear)
• 1 cup apple juice

Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine the apple cider, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, and ground nutmeg. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until the sugars dissolve.
2. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
3. Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, stir in the vanilla extract, grain alcohol, and apple juice.
4. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove the cinnamon sticks and any solids.
5. Pour the moonshine into sterilized bottles or jars and seal tightly. Let it sit for at least a week before serving to allow the flavors to fully develop.

This Sweet Apple Pie Moonshine captures the essence of a freshly baked apple pie in a sip, with a smooth, spiced warmth that improves over time.

Tip: For an extra touch of autumnal flair, garnish each serving with a thin apple slice and a small cinnamon stick.

Peach Cobbler Moonshine

There’s nothing quite like the sweet, boozy kick of Peach Cobbler Moonshine to warm you up from the inside out. This homemade concoction tastes just like dessert in a glass, with a smooth finish that’ll have you coming back for more.

Ingredients

• 4 cups peach nectar
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp allspice
• 2 cups moonshine (100 proof or higher)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the peach nectar, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. Stir until the sugars have completely dissolved.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature. This should take about 30 minutes.
4. Once cooled, stir in the moonshine and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Pour the mixture into clean mason jars or bottles, seal tightly, and store in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

The magic of this Peach Cobbler Moonshine lies in its aging process; the longer it sits, the more the flavors deepen into a rich, dessert-like sip that’s irresistibly smooth.

Tip: For an extra peach cobbler vibe, serve over a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with a slice of warm pie.

Spiced Cherry Moonshine

Dive into the heartwarming embrace of homemade Spiced Cherry Moonshine, a spirited concoction that blends the tartness of cherries with a whisper of spice for a truly unique sipping experience.

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh cherries, pitted
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 3 whole cloves
• 1 star anise
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 750 ml high-proof moonshine

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine 4 cups fresh cherries, 2 cups granulated sugar, and 1 cup water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add 1 cinnamon stick, 3 whole cloves, and 1 star anise to the saucepan. Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 tsp vanilla extract. Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
4. Once cooled, strain the cherry mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large jar or bottle, pressing on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the solids.
5. Add 750 ml high-proof moonshine to the cherry syrup, seal the jar or bottle, and give it a good shake to combine.
6. Let the Spiced Cherry Moonshine infuse in a cool, dark place for at least 1 week before serving, shaking gently every other day.

The magic of this moonshine lies in the slow infusion process, where the boldness of the moonshine softens to let the spiced cherry flavors shine through, creating a perfectly balanced sip.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a strip of orange zest to the infusion.

Blueberry Blast Moonshine

Get ready to wow your friends with this homemade Blueberry Blast Moonshine, a sweet and potent treat that’s perfect for sipping on a cool evening.

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh blueberries
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 quart high-proof grain alcohol (190 proof)
• 1 quart water
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 vanilla bean, split

Instructions

1. In a large saucepan, combine the blueberries, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 1 quart water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the blueberries begin to burst, about 10 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature. Once cooled, add the 1 quart high-proof grain alcohol, cinnamon stick, and split vanilla bean.
3. Transfer the mixture to a large glass jar, seal tightly, and store in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks, shaking gently every few days.
4. After 2 weeks, strain the moonshine through a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth into a clean jar or bottle. Discard the solids.
5. Serve your Blueberry Blast Moonshine chilled or over ice for a smooth, fruity kick that’s bursting with berry flavor.

The vanilla and cinnamon add a warm, spicy depth to the bright blueberry notes, making this moonshine a standout at any gathering.

Tip: For an extra smooth finish, let the moonshine age for an additional week before straining.

Traditional Sugar Shine

There’s nothing quite like the sweet, smooth finish of Traditional Sugar Shine, a homemade delight that brings warmth to any gathering.

Ingredients

• 5 cups granulated sugar
• 1 gallon water
• 1 packet (1/4 ounce) active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon baking soda

Instructions

1. In a large pot, dissolve 5 cups of granulated sugar in 1 gallon of water over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool to lukewarm (about 110°F). Sprinkle 1 packet of active dry yeast over the surface and let it sit for 10 minutes without stirring.
3. After the yeast has activated, stir in 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of baking soda. Cover the pot with a clean cloth and let it ferment in a warm, dark place for 7 days, stirring once daily.
4. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean container, then transfer to bottles for storage. The Sugar Shine is ready to enjoy immediately, but the flavor improves with age.

The magic of this recipe lies in the fermentation process, which transforms simple ingredients into a complex, flavorful spirit with a surprisingly smooth finish.

Tip: For a clearer final product, let the strained liquid sit for an additional day before bottling to allow any remaining sediment to settle.

Vanilla Bean Moonshine

Dive into the sweet, aromatic world of homemade Vanilla Bean Moonshine, a delightful concoction that brings a touch of elegance to your liquor cabinet.

Ingredients

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• 2 vanilla beans, split lengthwise
• 750 ml high-proof vodka (at least 80 proof)

Instructions

1. In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup granulated sugar and 1 cup water. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is completely dissolved. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
2. Once the syrup is cool, pour it into a large, clean jar. Add 2 split vanilla beans and 750 ml of high-proof vodka. Seal the jar tightly.
3. Store the jar in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks, shaking gently every few days to infuse the flavors.
4. After 2 weeks, taste the moonshine. If you desire a stronger vanilla flavor, let it infuse for another week.
5. Strain the moonshine through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean bottle, discarding the vanilla beans.

The magic of this Vanilla Bean Moonshine lies in its simplicity and the deep, rich vanilla flavor that develops over time, making it a standout addition to cocktails or a smooth sipper on its own.

Tip: For an extra vanilla punch, add a fresh vanilla bean to the bottle before serving.

Cinnamon Stick Moonshine

Warm up your evenings with this homemade Cinnamon Stick Moonshine, a sweet and spicy concoction that’s as fun to make as it is to sip.

Ingredients

• 1 gallon of apple cider
• 1 cup of granulated sugar
• 10 cinnamon sticks
• 1 teaspoon of whole cloves
• 1 cup of high-proof grain alcohol (like Everclear)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine the apple cider, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 10 cinnamon sticks, and 1 teaspoon of whole cloves. Stir over medium heat until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it steep for 20 minutes to infuse the flavors, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove the pot from heat and allow the mixture to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, stir in 1 cup of high-proof grain alcohol.
4. Strain the moonshine into a clean gallon jug or bottle, removing the cinnamon sticks and cloves. Seal tightly and store in a cool, dark place for at least a week before serving to let the flavors meld.

The magic of this moonshine lies in its perfect balance of sweet apple and fiery cinnamon, creating a warming drink that’s ideal for sharing on chilly nights.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a splash of vanilla extract before bottling.

Maple Syrup Moonshine

There’s something irresistibly cozy about sipping on homemade Maple Syrup Moonshine, a sweet and spirited concoction that brings a touch of warmth to any gathering.

Ingredients

• 2 cups pure maple syrup
• 1 cup water
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 cup high-proof grain alcohol (like Everclear)

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups pure maple syrup, 1 cup water, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1 cinnamon stick. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes until well combined.
2. Remove the saucepan from heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature, about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
3. Once cooled, remove the cinnamon stick and stir in 1 cup high-proof grain alcohol. Transfer the mixture to a clean glass jar or bottle, sealing tightly.
4. Let the moonshine sit for at least 24 hours before serving to allow the flavors to deepen. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

The magic of this Maple Syrup Moonshine lies in its perfect balance of sweetness and spice, with the vanilla and cinnamon adding layers of flavor that make each sip more intriguing than the last.

Tip: For an extra smooth finish, strain the moonshine through a coffee filter before bottling to remove any sediment.

Honey Lemon Moonshine

Brighten up your evening with this sweet and tangy Honey Lemon Moonshine, a homemade concoction that’s as fun to make as it is to sip.

Ingredients

• 1 cup honey
• 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons)
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 cup moonshine (or vodka for a milder version)

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup honey, 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice, 2 cups water, and 1 cup granulated sugar. Stir over medium heat until the sugar and honey are completely dissolved.
2. Add 1 tsp lemon zest and 1 cinnamon stick to the mixture. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes to infuse the flavors.
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature. Once cooled, stir in 1 cup moonshine.
4. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean jar or bottle to remove the zest and cinnamon stick. Seal tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

The magic of this Honey Lemon Moonshine lies in the balance of sweet honey and sharp lemon, with a warm hint of cinnamon that makes it irresistibly smooth.

Tip: For a festive twist, serve chilled with a sprinkle of edible gold dust or a lemon wheel garnish.

Ginger Spice Moonshine

Warm up your evenings with this homemade Ginger Spice Moonshine, a fiery yet sweet concoction that’s perfect for sipping by the fire.

Ingredients

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1/2 tsp whole cloves
• 1/2 tsp whole allspice berries
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 750 ml high-proof vodka

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup granulated sugar and 1 cup water. Heat over medium until the sugar dissolves, stirring occasionally.
2. Add 1/2 cup fresh ginger, 1 cinnamon stick, 1/2 tsp whole cloves, 1/2 tsp whole allspice berries, and 1/4 tsp nutmeg to the syrup. Simmer for 10 minutes to infuse the flavors.
3. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool completely. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a large jar, discarding the solids.
4. Pour 750 ml high-proof vodka into the jar with the infused syrup. Seal tightly and shake well to combine.
5. Store in a cool, dark place for at least 3 days before serving, shaking the jar daily to meld the flavors.

The slow infusion process unlocks a deep, spicy warmth from the ginger and spices, making this moonshine a standout for its layered complexity.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a few slices of fresh jalapeño to the infusion jar.

Pumpkin Pie Moonshine

Warm up your gatherings with this spiced Pumpkin Pie Moonshine, a creamy, boozy treat that tastes just like your favorite holiday dessert in a glass.

Ingredients

• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup vanilla vodka
• 1/2 cup spiced rum
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. In a blender, combine 1 cup pumpkin puree, 1 cup heavy cream, 1 cup vanilla vodka, 1/2 cup spiced rum, 1/2 cup pure maple syrup, 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice, 1/2 tsp vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
2. Blend on high until smooth, about 1 minute.
3. Pour the mixture into a large jar or bottle and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Shake well before serving over ice or chilled in small glasses.

This moonshine stands out with its velvety texture and the perfect balance of sweet and spice, making it a memorable nightcap or a festive party starter.

Tip: For an extra festive touch, rim the glasses with a mix of cinnamon and sugar before pouring.

Caramel Apple Moonshine

Warm up your evenings with this homemade Caramel Apple Moonshine, a sweet and spicy concoction that’s perfect for sharing with friends around a bonfire.

Ingredients

• 1 gallon apple cider
• 1 cup caramel sauce
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 4 cinnamon sticks
• 1 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 750 ml moonshine (or high-proof vodka)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine the apple cider, caramel sauce, and brown sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has completely dissolved.
2. Add the cinnamon sticks, ground nutmeg, and vanilla extract to the pot. Simmer on low heat for 20 minutes to infuse the flavors.
3. Remove the pot from heat and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, stir in the moonshine.
4. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean jug or bottle. Discard the cinnamon sticks.
5. Serve chilled or over ice, garnished with a cinnamon stick if desired.

The magic of this recipe lies in the balance of sweet caramel and tart apple, with a warming kick from the moonshine that’s irresistibly smooth.

Tip: For an extra caramel flavor, drizzle a little extra caramel sauce on top of each serving just before drinking.

Blackberry Bramble Moonshine

Dive into the sweet and spirited world of homemade infusions with this Blackberry Bramble Moonshine, a delightful concoction that marries the tartness of blackberries with the smooth kick of moonshine.

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh blackberries
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 (750ml) bottle of moonshine (100 proof)
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise

Instructions

1. In a large mason jar, combine the fresh blackberries and granulated sugar. Gently muddle the berries to release their juices.
2. Pour the moonshine over the blackberry mixture, ensuring all ingredients are fully submerged.
3. Add the cinnamon stick and split vanilla bean to the jar, giving it a gentle stir to incorporate.
4. Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks, shaking it gently every few days to help the flavors meld.
5. After 2 weeks, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bottle, pressing on the berries to extract all the flavorful liquid. Discard the solids.
6. Your Blackberry Bramble Moonshine is now ready to enjoy! Serve it chilled or over ice for a smooth, berry-infused sip that packs a punch.

The magic of this recipe lies in the slow infusion process, which allows the bold flavors of blackberries and moonshine to create a harmonious blend with just a hint of spice from the cinnamon and vanilla.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, let the moonshine infuse for up to a month. The longer it sits, the deeper the berry flavors become.

Raspberry Delight Moonshine

Dive into the sweet and spirited world of homemade moonshine with this Raspberry Delight Moonshine recipe, a fruity twist that’s perfect for sipping under the stars.

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh raspberries
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 quart high-proof grain alcohol (190 proof)
• 1 quart water
• 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise

Instructions

1. In a large jar, combine 2 cups fresh raspberries and 1 cup granulated sugar. Mash lightly to release the juices.
2. Add 1 quart high-proof grain alcohol and 1 quart water to the jar, stirring gently to dissolve the sugar.
3. Scrape the seeds from 1 vanilla bean into the mixture and add the pod for extra flavor.
4. Seal the jar tightly and store in a cool, dark place for 2 weeks, shaking gently every other day.
5. After 2 weeks, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean jar or bottle, discarding the solids.
6. Let the moonshine rest for an additional week before enjoying to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

The vanilla bean adds a subtle depth to the bright raspberry flavor, making this moonshine a standout at any gathering.

Tip: For a smoother finish, strain the moonshine through a coffee filter before the final rest.

Strawberry Shortcake Moonshine

Nothing says summer like the sweet, tangy kick of Strawberry Shortcake Moonshine—a boozy twist on the classic dessert that’s perfect for sipping under the stars.

Ingredients

• 1 quart fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 liter moonshine (or high-proof vodka)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Mash gently with a potato masher or fork to release the juices. Let sit for 1 hour.
2. Strain the strawberry mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large jar or bottle, pressing to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the solids.
3. Add the moonshine to the strawberry syrup, seal the jar, and shake well to combine. Let infuse for at least 24 hours, or up to a week, for deeper flavor.
4. Before serving, whip the heavy cream with the lemon juice until soft peaks form. Serve the moonshine in small glasses, topped with a dollop of the whipped cream.

The magic of this recipe lies in the infusion process, where the moonshine takes on the vibrant flavor of strawberries, creating a dessert drink that’s both potent and refreshing.

Tip: For an extra touch of sweetness, rim the glasses with crushed shortbread cookies before pouring.

Chocolate Mint Moonshine

Dive into the festive spirit with this Chocolate Mint Moonshine, a creamy, minty delight that’s perfect for sharing (or not) during the holiday season.

Ingredients

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tsp peppermint extract
• 1 cup chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup crushed candy canes

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt. Whisk continuously until the mixture is hot but not boiling, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and stir in peppermint extract and chocolate chips until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Pour the mixture into a large jar or bottle and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until chilled.
4. Serve in small glasses, garnished with crushed candy canes for an extra minty crunch.

The magic of this Chocolate Mint Moonshine lies in its velvety texture and the way the cool mint plays off the rich chocolate, making it a standout treat at any winter gathering.

Tip: For an adults-only version, add a splash of peppermint schnapps before serving.

Banana Bread Moonshine

Banana Bread Moonshine combines the cozy flavors of homemade banana bread with a spirited kick, perfect for sipping by the fire.

Ingredients

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp cloves
• 1/2 gallon apple cider
• 1/2 gallon apple juice
• 1 liter grain alcohol (190 proof)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine the mashed bananas, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1 cup brown sugar, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1/2 tsp nutmeg, and 1/4 tsp cloves. Stir over medium heat until the sugars dissolve.
2. Add 1/2 gallon apple cider and 1/2 gallon apple juice to the pot. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it steep for 20 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove banana solids.
4. Stir in 1 liter grain alcohol and 1 tsp vanilla extract. Bottle the moonshine and let it age in a cool, dark place for at least a week before enjoying.

The magic of this recipe lies in its deep, spiced banana flavor that mellows beautifully with age, creating a smooth sipper that’s unexpectedly refined.

Tip: For a non-alcoholic version, omit the grain alcohol and enjoy the spiced banana cider warm.

Conclusion

We hope this roundup of 18 exciting homemade moonshine recipes inspires you to start your distilling adventure! Whether you’re a beginner or looking to try something new, there’s a recipe here for everyone. Don’t forget to share your favorites in the comments and pin your must-try recipes on Pinterest. Happy distilling!