Apple pie moonshine is a delicious fall and winter drink that many enjoy making at home. But like any homemade alcohol, there are questions around how long it keeps and whether it will go bad in the fridge over time. Let’s take a closer look at how long apple pie moonshine lasts and how to tell if it has gone bad.
What is Apple Pie Moonshine?
Apple pie moonshine is a cinnamon and apple flavored version of traditional moonshine. It’s made by infusing a neutral spirit like vodka or grain alcohol with apple pie spices and often apple juice or apple cider. Some recipes also include actual apples or apple slices.
The end result is a smooth, appley tasting “shine” that resembles the flavor of warm apple pie. It’s usually served cold, often over ice. Apple pie moonshine is a popular drink for fall and winter holidy parties and gatherings.
Does Apple Pie Moonshine Go Bad?
Because apple pie moonshine is made with a high proof neutral spirit as its base, it has an extremely long shelf life compared to other homemade liqueurs and infusions. The alcohol acts as a preservative, preventing microbial growth that could spoil the moonshine.
Properly stored apple pie moonshine can last for years without going bad. Over time, it may slowly lose some flavor and intensity, but it will remain safe to drink. Here are some general guidelines for how long apple pie moonshine lasts:
- Unopened – Up to 5 years or longer
- Opened, stored in the fridge – Up to 1-2 years
How to Tell if Apple Pie Moonshine Has Gone Bad
Because apple pie moonshine can last so long, it’s not common for it to actually spoil or become unsafe to drink. But occasionally you may come across a batch that has gone off.
Here are some signs that your apple pie moonshine has gone bad and should be discarded:
- Changes color – It becomes darker, cloudy or has particles
- Smells unpleasant – Smells rotten, moldy or like chemicals
- Changes texture – Becomes thick and syrupy
- Tastes very off – Sour, bitter, unpleasant flavors
As long as your moonshine smells and tastes normal, you can safely store it in the fridge for 1-2 years after opening. But if you notice any of the above changes, it’s best to toss it.
How to Store Apple Pie Moonshine
To get the longest shelf life out of your homemade apple pie moonshine, proper storage is key. Here are some tips for storing it correctly:
- Store unopened moonshine at room temperature in a cool, dark place.
- Once opened, transfer to an airtight container like a mason jar or bottle with tight lid.
- Keep opened moonshine refrigerated at all times.
- Make sure the container is full to minimize air exposure.
- Avoid extreme heat or freezing temperatures.
- Don’t let sunlight hit the moonshine, as light can degrade flavor over time.
How Does Refrigeration Help Preserve Apple Pie Moonshine?
Refrigerating opened apple pie moonshine helps it last longer for a few reasons:
- Slows chemical reactions – Cold temps slow down reactions that can change flavors.
- Retards microbial growth – The cold restricts bacteria and mold growth.
- Minimizes oxidation – Oxygen reacts less quickly with colder liquid.
- Sediments precipitate – Chilling helps particles settle, preventing clouding.
While an unopened bottle can be kept at room temp for years, refrigeration is key once exposed to air by opening. The cold fridge temps help preserve the quality and prevent spoilage.
How Long Does Apple Pie Moonshine Last in the Freezer?
While refrigerating opened apple pie moonshine can extend its shelf life to 1-2 years, the freezer allows it to keep even longer. In the freezer, apple pie moonshine can last:
- 6-8 months in a full, airtight container
- 2-3 years if frozen in smaller portions like ice cube trays
Freezing minimizes chemical reactions and stops microbial growth completely. Smaller frozen portions have less surface area exposed to air.
One downside is that freezing can degrade the texture and flavor over time. Thaw and taste test occasionally when storing in the freezer.
Can You Make Apple Pie Moonshine Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! In fact, making your apple pie moonshine 1-2 months before you plan to serve it allows the flavors to fully develop and meld. The inclusion of apple juice and spices means it benefits from sitting over time.
When making apple pie moonshine ahead:
- First infuse the neutral spirit with your ingredients for 1-2 weeks.
- Strain out solids if desired.
- Store in a sealed container in a cool dark place for 1-2 months.
- Taste occasionally and adjust flavor if needed.
- Serve chilled or over ice.
You may also consider making large batches and freezing portions to enjoy later in the year. Just leave an inch of headspace for expansion and use durable freezer-safe containers.
Tips for Making the Best Apple Pie Moonshine
Follow these tips to make smooth, flavorful apple pie moonshine with maximum shelf life:
- Use 100-150 proof neutral spirit like vodka or grain alcohol.
- Select juicy, sweet apple varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji.
- Add apple juice for sweetness and apple flavor.
- Use real cinnamon sticks instead of ground cinnamon.
- Fine strain for a clear final product.
- Sweeten to taste – add simple syrup if needed.
- Refrigerate immediately after opening.
Serving Apple Pie Moonshine
Apple pie moonshine is delicious served chilled, over ice, or simply at room temperature. It’s sweet and smooth enough to sip straight.
You can also use it to make fun fall cocktails. Try adding a splash to:
- Apple cider
- Ginger beer
- Spiced rum
- Prosecco or sparkling wine
Garnish your apple pie moonshine cocktails with apple slices, cinnamon sticks or whipped cream for a festive treat!
Storing Leftover Apple Pie Moonshine
To store leftover apple pie moonshine, first tightly seal the container. Then refrigerate immediately to maximize freshness and shelf life.
Pour any remaining moonshine into a smaller bottle or jar if there is a lot of headspace left. The key is minimizing oxygen exposure. An airtight container will keep leftover moonshine tasting great for 1-2 years.
For long term storage of 6 months or longer, consider dividing moonshine into freezer-safe containers. Frozen portions will keep for 2-3 years.
Enjoying Apple Pie Moonshine Safely
Apple pie moonshine contains a high percentage of alcohol, so it’s important to enjoy it responsibly:
- Pace yourself – don’t overdo it.
- Stay hydrated by drinking water between servings.
- Measure your pouring accurately.
- Don’t drive or operate machinery after consuming.
- Keep out of reach of children and minors.
Infused moonshine like apple pie can be deceivingly smooth. But the effects of alcohol still apply. Sip your autumnal apple pie moonshine slowly and safely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should apple pie moonshine be refrigerated?
Apple pie moonshine should always be refrigerated after opening. An unopened bottle can be stored at room temp. Refrigeration is necessary once exposed to oxygen to maximize freshness and shelf life.
Can you freeze apple pie moonshine?
Yes, freezing is an excellent option for long term storage. It will last even longer frozen – up to 2-3 years when frozen in small portions. Just be sure to leave headspace in containers for expansion.
How long does apple pie moonshine last unopened?
Unopened apple pie moonshine has an extremely long shelf life of up to 5 years or longer when stored properly. An unopened bottle doesn’t require refrigeration.
Does apple juice go bad in apple pie moonshine?
The high alcohol content prevents the apple juice from going truly bad. However, over very long periods it may start losing flavor. For best quality, refrigerate after opening and consume within 1-2 years.
Is apple pie moonshine better aged?
Yes! Allowing apple pie moonshine to age for at least 1-2 months allows the flavors to fully marry and develop. Many recipes call for “setting” it aside before serving.