Are you ready to take your taste buds on a wild ride? Forget the ordinary; we're diving headfirst into the delicious world of homemade moonshine with this Blueberry Pie Moonshine recipe. This isn't your grandma's pie filling; it's a potent, flavorful spirit that captures the essence of summer in a jar. It's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for seasoned moonshiners and curious beginners alike. This easy recipe is perfect for adding to your collection of quick dinner ideas, especially if you're looking for a unique and delicious dessert-inspired alcoholic beverage.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups of fresh or frozen blueberries
- 2 cups of sugar
- 1 cup of water
- 1 (750ml) bottle of high-quality vodka or neutral grain spirit (Everclear is a popular choice for moonshine but proceed with caution due to its high alcohol content)
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves
- Optional: Zest of one lemon for added brightness
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Blueberry Filling
- In a large saucepan, combine the blueberries, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the blueberries have softened and released their juices, creating a thick, syrupy consistency. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
- Remove from heat and let cool completely. This is crucial for a smooth and delicious finished product.
Step 2: Infusing the Moonshine
- Once the blueberry mixture has cooled, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a large bowl or container, pressing on the solids to extract as much juice as possible. Discard the solids (or use them to make a delicious blueberry sauce for pancakes!).
- Pour the strained blueberry juice into a large glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid.
- Add the vodka (or your chosen spirit), cinnamon sticks, nutmeg, allspice, cloves, and optional lemon zest. Stir gently to combine.
- Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for at least 4-6 weeks, shaking gently every few days to ensure proper infusion. The longer it infuses, the more intense the flavor will become. Patience is key!
Step 3: Filtering and Bottling
- After 4-6 weeks, it's time to filter your moonshine. Line a funnel with cheesecloth or a coffee filter and pour the infused mixture through it into a clean glass bottle or jar.
- Discard the solids. If you want a crystal-clear moonshine, you might consider using a finer filter.
- Seal the bottle tightly and store in a cool, dark place. Your Blueberry Pie Moonshine is now ready to enjoy!
Tips for the Best Results:
- Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Adjust the spices to your liking. A little experimentation can lead to your signature recipe.
- Don't be afraid to experiment with different types of alcohol. Rum or bourbon could also create interesting flavor profiles.
- Taste-test your moonshine periodically during the infusion process to gauge the flavor development.
- Always drink responsibly.
Variations:
- Spiced Blueberry Pie Moonshine: Add a pinch of ginger or cardamom for a more complex flavor profile.
- Citrus Blueberry Pie Moonshine: Add orange or lime zest along with the lemon zest for a brighter, citrusy twist.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving - will vary depending on the alcohol used and serving size):
It's important to note that providing precise nutritional information for alcoholic beverages is difficult, as it greatly depends on the type and amount of alcohol used, as well as the serving size. However, a serving of this moonshine will contain a significant amount of calories from the sugar and alcohol content.
This Blueberry Pie Moonshine recipe offers a unique twist on homemade cooking, allowing you to create a delicious and potent beverage perfect for sharing (responsibly) with friends. Enjoy this healthy alternative for a delightful, boozy experience! Remember to always consume alcohol responsibly and in moderation.