How to Make Delicious Moon Pie Moonshine: The Sweetest Treat

Table of Contents

Introduction

Welcome to the fascinating world of Moonshine and Moon Pie Moonshine! In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the intriguing concoction known as Moon Pie Moonshine. From its origins to the ingredients used, and the process of distillation, we’ll uncover the secrets behind this beloved beverage. Get ready to embark on a journey through the history, craftsmanship, and cultural significance of Moon Pie Moonshine.

What Is Moon Pie Moonshine

Moon Pie Moonshine is a unique type of flavored moonshine inspired by the classic Southern treat, the Moon Pie. This nostalgic dessert, known for its marshmallow and graham cracker layers coated in chocolate, inspired distillers to create a spirit that captures its iconic flavors. Moon Pie Moonshine typically blends traditional corn-based moonshine with flavors like chocolate, graham, and marshmallow, mimicking the essence of a Moon Pie in liquid form. The result is a sweet, dessert-like moonshine with a smooth finish that’s usually lower in proof than traditional moonshine, making it more approachable for casual sipping or mixing.

This moonshine has become a novelty in Southern distilleries, popular with those looking to enjoy a taste of nostalgia alongside a bit of kick. Moon Pie Moonshine is often enjoyed straight, on the rocks, or mixed into cocktails, adding a unique twist to classic drinks. The flavor profile is crafted to be smooth, sweet, and flavorful, appealing to dessert lovers and moonshine enthusiasts alike. Many distilleries even offer various Moon Pie-inspired flavors, from classic chocolate to other variations like banana or vanilla, broadening its appeal as a modern Southern specialty

Ingredients of Moon Pie Moonshine

Primary Ingredients

Here’s a detailed list of ingredients needed to make a homemade Moon Pie Moonshine. This recipe is inspired by the classic Moon Pie flavors, so it includes elements that bring out the chocolate, marshmallow, and graham cracker taste in a smooth, dessert-style moonshine.

Ingredients

Corn Moonshine Base (or Vodka) – 1 quart (about 4 cups)
Use traditional corn moonshine if available, as it provides an authentic, slightly sweet, and rustic flavor. Vodka can be used as a substitute for a cleaner, more neutral base.
Chocolate Syrup or Chocolate Liqueur – 1/2 cup
Chocolate syrup is commonly used to add a rich chocolate flavor. Chocolate liqueur (such as Godiva or Crème de Cacao) can be used for a more intense chocolate profile and a bit of extra alcohol content.
Graham Cracker Extract – 1 to 2 teaspoons
Graham cracker extract or flavoring will give the moonshine a distinct graham flavor. Adjust the quantity based on preference; 1 teaspoon provides a mild flavor, while 2 teaspoons give a bolder taste.
Marshmallow Fluff or Marshmallow Extract – 1/4 cup or 1 teaspoon, respectively
Marshmallow fluff can be melted into the mixture for a sweeter, creamier texture. If you prefer a cleaner finish, use marshmallow extract for a subtle marshmallow flavor without added texture.
Sweetened Condensed Milk or Cream Liqueur (optional) – 1/4 cup
For a creamier texture, add a small amount of sweetened condensed milk or a cream liqueur like Baileys. This addition is optional and adds richness and body to the moonshine.
Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon
Vanilla extract helps round out the flavors, adding warmth and depth to complement the chocolate and marshmallow.
Simple Syrup (optional) – Adjust to taste
Add simple syrup if you prefer a sweeter moonshine. Start with 1-2 tablespoons and adjust according to how sweet you’d like the final product to be.
Distilled Water (optional) – For diluting
Depending on the proof of your moonshine or vodka, you may want to dilute the mixture slightly with distilled water. This can make it smoother and easier to sip.
Crushed Graham Crackers (for garnish) – Optional
Use crushed graham crackers to rim the glasses when serving for a Moon Pie-inspired presentation. This step is optional but adds a nice decorative and flavorful touch.

These ingredients combine to create a smooth, dessert-like moonshine with a layered flavor profile reminiscent of the classic Moon Pie. Adjust the quantities of each ingredient to match your personal taste and desired strength.

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Moonshine Recipe (Base)

Materials Needed:

Fermenter: A food-grade container to ferment your mash.
Airlock and Stopper: Allows gases to escape while preventing contaminants from entering.
Stirring Spoon: Long enough to reach the bottom of the fermenter.
Heating Element: For heating the mash during fermentation.
Still: A distillation apparatus made up of a boiler, condenser, and collection vessel.
Thermometer: To monitor temperatures throughout the distillation process.
Hydrometer and Test Jar: To measure alcohol content.
Glass Jars or Bottles: To collect the distilled moonshine.
Charcoal Filter (optional): For additional purification of the final product.

Ingredients:

Cornmeal: The traditional base for moonshine.
Sugar: Enhances fermentation and alcohol production.
Yeast: To ferment the sugars into alcohol.
Water: Clean, distilled water is best for the mash.

Steps to Distill Moonshine:

1. Prepare the Mash

Ingredients

8.5 lbs (4 kg) of cracked corn or cornmeal
5 lbs (2.3 kg) of granulated sugar
5 gallons (19 liters) of water
2 packets of distiller’s yeast or baker’s yeast

Instructions

Heat the Water: Bring 4 gallons (15 liters) of water to a boil in a large pot.
Add Cornmeal: Slowly stir in the cracked corn or cornmeal, ensuring there are no lumps. Maintain a temperature of around 190°F (87°C) and cook for about 30 minutes. This process gelatinizes the starches in the corn, making them accessible for conversion into fermentable sugars.
Add Sugar: Slowly add 5 lbs of sugar to the mash while stirring continuously. This boosts the potential alcohol content.
Cool the Mixture: Once the sugar has dissolved, remove the pot from heat and let the mixture cool to 75°F (24°C). Rapid cooling can be achieved by placing the pot in an ice bath.
Add Yeast: Once the mash has cooled, add the yeast. Stir well to distribute the yeast evenly.
Fermentation: Transfer the mixture to the fermenter, attach the airlock, and place it in a warm, dark place. Allow it to ferment for 5-10 days or until bubbling stops in the airlock.

2. Distillation Process

Prepare the Still: Ensure the still is clean and free of any contaminants. Transfer the fermented mash into the boiler of your still, avoiding any solid residue that could burn during distillation.
Heat the Mash: Gradually heat the mash in the still. Monitor the temperature carefully. Ethanol (drinking alcohol) evaporates at 173°F (78°C). Maintain the temperature to allow for a slow distillation process.
Discard the Foreshots: The first 5% of the distilled liquid, known as foreshots, should be discarded. It contains methanol, which is toxic and can cause blindness or death if ingested.
Collect the Heads, Hearts, and Tails:

Heads: The next portion (approximately 20-30%) contains volatile alcohols and should be discarded or reused in future distillations.
Hearts: This is the desirable part, containing ethanol and the best-tasting product. Continue collecting until the temperature reaches around 200°F (93°C).
Repeat if Necessary: To achieve higher purity and better flavor, you may want to run the distillate through the still again. This is known as “double distilling.”

3. Final Steps:

Filter and Dilute: Optionally, filter the moonshine through activated charcoal to remove any impurities. If the moonshine is too strong, dilute it with distilled water to the desired proof.
Bottle the Moonshine: Transfer the finished product into glass jars or bottles and seal them tightly.
Age (Optional): For a smoother flavor, you can age the moonshine in a wooden barrel or with wood chips.

How is Moon Pie Moonshine Made?

Instructions to Make Moon Pie Moonshine

1.Prepare the Moonshine Base

Start by pouring your moonshine or vodka base into a large, clean jar or mixing container. If you’re using vodka as a substitute, be sure to choose one with a neutral flavor for the best results.

2.Add the Chocolate Flavor

Pour in the chocolate syrup or chocolate liqueur and stir well. This will add the main chocolate note that resembles the outer coating of a Moon Pie.

3.Incorporate the Graham Cracker Flavor

Add the graham cracker extract to bring out the graham cracker flavor. Use 1 teaspoon for a light flavor or 2 teaspoons if you want a stronger graham taste. Stir the mixture to blend the flavor evenly.

4.Mix in the Marshmallow Component

If marshmallow fluff is used, add 1/4 cup to the mixture and stir until it’s mostly dissolved. This may take a few minutes to fully incorporate. For a cleaner texture, substitute with 1 teaspoon of marshmallow extract instead.

5.Add Vanilla and Optional Sweeteners

Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for added warmth and depth. If you’d like a sweeter moonshine, add simple syrup 1 tablespoon at a time, tasting as you go until it reaches your desired sweetness level.

6.Add Creamy Elements (Optional)

For a richer, dessert-like texture, add 1/4 cup of sweetened condensed milk or cream liqueur (like Baileys). This step is optional, but it adds a creamy layer that enhances the Moon Pie experience.

7.Adjust with Water if Needed

Depending on the proof of your moonshine and personal preference, you may want to dilute the mixture slightly with distilled water. Start with a few tablespoons, tasting after each addition to ensure it doesn’t lose too much strength.

8.Shake or Stir Thoroughly

After you ensure the lid is secure you will stir vigorously until the moonshine is smooth and cohesive.

9.Let the Flavors Set

You should let the moonshine sit for at least 24 hours in the refrigerator. This will then allow the flavors to meld together and, as a result create a smoother and more balanced drink.

10.Serve and Garnish

You can pour the Moon Pie Moonshine into small glasses. For an added touch, rim each glass with crushed graham crackers to enhance the Moon Pie theme.

Tips:

Storage: Keep your Moon Pie Moonshine in a sealed jar in the refrigerator.
Serving Suggestions: Serve it over ice or as a dessert shot.
Enjoy your homemade Moon Pie Moonshine!

Conclusion

As we conclude our exploration of Moon Pie Moonshine, it’s evident that this beloved beverage seamlessly merges tradition, innovation, and nostalgia. From its unique ingredients to the intricacies of its distillation process, Moon Pie Moonshine embodies the artistry and creativity of artisanal spirits. Moon Pie Moonshine continues to leave an indelible mark on the world of spirits, inviting all to savor its distinctive charm and rich heritage.