Pineapple Moonshine Recipe: How to Make This Tropical Homemade Drink

Key Takeaways

• Pineapple moonshine combines tropical sweetness with the kick of high-proof alcohol for a unique homemade spirit
• Store-bought moonshine or Everclear serves as the perfect base for this infusion, eliminating the need for actual distillation
• The infusion process takes 5-7 days, with flavor peaking around 2 weeks for the perfect balance of sweetness and alcohol
• Using fresh pineapple yields the most vibrant flavor, but canned can work in a pinch with slightly adjusted sugar levels
• Tropical Liquors offers premium spirit-making kits that provide all the essentials for creating perfect homemade infusions every time

Tropical Moonshine Magic: Why Pineapple Moonshine Is Worth Making

“Pineapple Moonshine Recipe” from www.clawhammersupply.com and used with no modifications.

There’s something undeniably alluring about transforming fresh tropical fruits into spirited concoctions right in your own kitchen. Pineapple moonshine captures the essence of summer in a jar—bright, sweet, and with just enough kick to remind you it’s not just juice you’re sipping. While traditional moonshine conjures images of secret stills and prohibition-era shenanigans, today’s legal homemade versions offer all the fun without the risk of federal agents knocking at your door.

What makes pineapple particularly special for moonshine is its perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. The natural sugars in pineapple create a smooth-drinking infusion that masks the potency of high-proof alcohol, while its tropical essence transports you to island beaches with every sip. Unlike commercial pineapple spirits that often taste artificial, homemade pineapple moonshine delivers authentic flavor that develops and deepens over time. Try out some of these awesome ingredients we highly recommend.

This recipe has become wildly popular among home brewers for good reason. It’s surprisingly simple to make, requires minimal ingredients, and offers impressive results that will have friends begging for your secret. As Tropical Liquors notes in their beverage guides, pineapple-infused spirits also make excellent bases for cocktails, giving you tremendous versatility from a single batch. Whether you’re a seasoned moonshine maker or trying your first infusion, this tropical variation deserves a prime spot in your home bar collection.

Pineapple Moonshine Ingredients: Everything You’ll Need

Creating the perfect batch of pineapple moonshine starts with gathering quality ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—you’ll need just a handful of components to create a spectacular infusion. Your shopping list will include: 1 large ripe pineapple (or 4 cups cubed), 1-2 cups granulated sugar (adjustable to taste), 1 liter of high-proof neutral spirit (like Everclear or store-bought moonshine), 1-2 cinnamon sticks (optional), and the zest of one lime for brightness.

Base Spirits: Choosing Your Alcohol

The foundation of any good moonshine infusion is the base spirit. For legal homemade pineapple moonshine, you’ll need to start with store-bought high-proof alcohol rather than distilling your own (which requires permits in most places). The ideal choice is Everclear (190 proof/95% alcohol) or commercially available moonshine (usually around 100 proof/50% alcohol). These neutral spirits provide the perfect blank canvas for absorbing pineapple flavor without competing taste elements. If these aren’t available in your area, the highest proof vodka you can find makes a reasonable substitute, though you’ll get a slightly less potent final product. Remember that higher proof spirits extract flavors more efficiently, which is why professional infusions typically start with overproof alcohol.

Fresh vs. Canned Pineapple: Which Works Better?

Fresh pineapple is the gold standard for this recipe, delivering vibrant flavor and natural sweetness that canned varieties simply can’t match. When selecting your pineapple, look for one that’s fragrant at the base and has begun developing a golden color—these indicators of ripeness translate directly to flavor intensity in your moonshine. However, if fresh isn’t an option, canned pineapple chunks in juice (not syrup) can work in a pinch. If using canned, drain thoroughly and reduce added sugar by about 25% since canned pineapple typically contains more sugar already. The texture difference between fresh and canned won’t matter much since you’ll be straining the fruit out, but the flavor profile will be noticeably brighter with fresh fruit.

Sweeteners and Flavor Enhancers

While pineapple brings natural sweetness to the infusion, additional sugar helps balance the harsh edge of high-proof alcohol. Standard granulated sugar works perfectly, though raw sugar or demerara adds subtle caramel notes that complement pineapple beautifully. The amount of sugar you’ll need depends partly on your pineapple’s ripeness and your personal preference—start with 1 cup per liter of spirit and adjust upward if needed after tasting. Some brewers prefer to create a simple syrup first (equal parts sugar and water, heated until dissolved) for smoother incorporation, while others add sugar directly and let time do the dissolving work. If you’re interested in exploring other fruity infusions, check out this fruit punch moonshine recipe for a tropical twist.

Pro Tip: For an extra dimension of flavor, try replacing up to half the white sugar with brown sugar or honey. These alternative sweeteners introduce caramel or floral notes that complement pineapple’s tropical profile while adding complexity to your moonshine. For more sweet inspiration, check out how to craft the best caramel moonshine.

Optional Add-ins for Flavor Complexity

While a pure pineapple infusion is delicious on its own, thoughtful additions can elevate your moonshine to new heights. Cinnamon sticks provide warming spice that balances the tropical sweetness, while vanilla beans add creamy undertones that soften the alcohol’s edge. For a truly tropical experience, toasted coconut flakes create a piña colada effect that’s irresistible. Citrus elements like lime zest or orange peel brighten the overall profile without adding significant sweetness. For those who enjoy heat with their sweet, a few slices of jalapeño or a pinch of crushed red pepper creates a fascinating sweet-heat combination that’s particularly good in cocktails.

Essential Equipment for Making Pineapple Moonshine

“Mason Jars, 4-Pack (8 oz)” from tribest.com and used with no modifications.

Crafting pineapple moonshine doesn’t require fancy distilling equipment, but having the right tools makes the process smoother and more enjoyable. Most items you’ll need are probably already in your kitchen. Think of this as an infusion project rather than true distillation, which keeps it accessible for home enthusiasts and legal in most places. Don`t forget the must have accessories and supplies we always recommend.

Storage Containers and Jars

Mason jars are the traditional and practical choice for moonshine infusions. The wide mouths make adding ingredients easy, and their secure seals prevent evaporation during the infusion period. I recommend using quart-sized jars for testing batches and half-gallon jars for full recipes. Look for jars with rubber gasket seals for the best results. If you’re making a larger batch, a 1-gallon glass jar with a tight-fitting lid works perfectly. Avoid plastic containers as they can leach chemicals when exposed to high-proof alcohol and affect the flavor of your final product. For more ideas on creating flavorful moonshine, check out this raspberry moonshine recipe.

Straining and Filtering Tools

Proper filtration is crucial for achieving crystal-clear moonshine with smooth flavor. Start with a fine-mesh strainer for removing the larger fruit pieces, then progress to finer filtration methods. Coffee filters work surprisingly well for the final polish, though they filter slowly. For larger batches, cheesecloth layered several times achieves similar results more quickly. Patience during the filtering stage pays off with a cleaner final product that looks as good as it tastes. Some enthusiasts use specific moonshine filters, but these household options work just as effectively for most home brewers. For a refreshing twist, try using these techniques with a fruit punch moonshine recipe.

Measuring Equipment for Precision

Precision matters when balancing flavors in moonshine. A good digital kitchen scale helps measure fruit consistently across batches, while liquid measuring cups ensure accurate proportions of alcohol. If you plan to dilute your final product to a specific proof, an alcoholmeter (hydrometer) proves invaluable for measuring alcohol content accurately. These simple tools make the difference between a good batch and a great one, eliminating guesswork and helping you replicate successful recipes. Even if you’re the type to cook by feel, measuring your ingredients at least once gives you a baseline for future experimentation.

Step-by-Step Pineapple Moonshine Recipe

Now that you understand the ingredients and equipment, let’s walk through the process of creating your tropical elixir. This method yields approximately 1 liter of finished pineapple moonshine. For those interested in exploring more tropical flavors, you might want to try this fruit punch moonshine recipe. The entire process from preparation to drinking takes about two weeks, with most of that time spent waiting as flavors develop and meld.

1. Preparing Your Pineapple

Start with a ripe, fragrant pineapple that yields slightly when pressed. Remove the crown and base, then stand the pineapple on end and slice away the spiny skin in downward strokes, being sure to remove all the “eyes.” Cut the peeled pineapple in half lengthwise, then quarter each half to remove the tough core. Dice the remaining flesh into small cubes approximately 1/2 inch in size. Smaller pieces create more surface area, allowing for better flavor extraction. If you’re concerned about enzymes in fresh pineapple affecting the infusion, briefly blanch the cubes in boiling water for 30 seconds, then plunge them into ice water before proceeding.

2. Creating the Sugar Mixture

In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup water with 1-2 cups sugar (depending on your sweetness preference). Heat over medium flame, stirring constantly until the sugar completely dissolves and the mixture turns clear. Remove from heat and allow to cool to room temperature. This simple syrup will blend more easily with your alcohol than adding sugar directly. For flavor variations, this is the stage where you might add cinnamon sticks, vanilla beans, or other infusion elements to the cooling syrup, allowing their flavors to incorporate before combining with the alcohol.

3. Combining Ingredients

In your large glass jar or container, combine the prepared pineapple cubes, cooled sugar syrup, and lime zest if using. Pour in the full liter of your chosen high-proof spirit, ensuring all fruit is completely submerged. If needed, add additional alcohol to cover. Seal the container tightly and gently invert several times to mix ingredients without bruising the fruit. Label your container with the date and contents—a step that seems simple but proves invaluable when you start making multiple infusions. Place the sealed container in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight, which can degrade both flavor and alcohol content.

4. Infusion Time: How Long to Wait

Patience becomes your most important ingredient during the infusion stage. The interaction between pineapple and alcohol needs time to develop full flavor complexity. At minimum, allow your moonshine to infuse for 5-7 days, gently agitating the container daily by tilting it back and forth rather than shaking. This gentle movement helps extract flavor without breaking down the fruit structure too quickly.

• Days 1-3: Alcohol begins extracting color and surface flavors
• Days 4-7: Deeper flavor compounds infuse, sweetness increases
• Days 8-14: Flavors mellow and integrate, harshness diminishes
• Beyond 14 days: Diminishing returns, risk of bitter notes developing

For optimal results, most experienced brewers recommend a two-week infusion period. This sweet spot allows enough time for complete flavor extraction while preventing the development of bitter compounds that can emerge with overextraction. Sample tiny amounts (just a drop) periodically after the first week to monitor flavor development and stop when it reaches your preferred intensity.

Temperature plays a crucial role in infusion speed. Warmer environments accelerate the process but can produce less refined flavors, while cooler temperatures slow extraction but often yield more complex results. For a balanced outcome, you might want to explore recipes like cool raspberry moonshine, which can benefit from consistent room temperature around 65-70°F (18-21°C).

5. Straining and Bottling Your Moonshine

Once your infusion reaches peak flavor, it’s time to separate the fruit from your precious liquid. Begin with a coarse straining through a colander to remove the bulk of the pineapple pieces. Press gently on the fruit to extract absorbed liquid, but avoid excessive pressure that might push pulp through. Next, perform a finer filtration through several layers of cheesecloth or coffee filters to remove smaller particles and achieve clarity. This step may take time as high-proof alcohol filters slowly, but rushing produces cloudy results. For more fruity infusions, check out our guide on Fruit Punch Moonshine.

Transfer your filtered moonshine to clean, preferably sterilized glass bottles with tight-fitting caps or corks. Dark-colored bottles help protect your creation from light damage during storage. Consider setting aside small samples in separate containers to track how flavors continue developing over time. Most pineapple moonshine continues improving for several weeks after bottling as flavors integrate and mature, though the most dramatic changes happen during the initial infusion period.

Flavor Variations and Add-ins

“Frozen Pina Colada” from www.palmettodistillery.com and used with no modifications.

While pure pineapple moonshine delivers tropical delight on its own, experimenting with complementary flavors can create custom variations that suit different occasions and preferences. The basic pineapple recipe serves as an excellent canvas for creativity, allowing you to craft signature infusions that friends and family will recognize as uniquely yours. Consider these popular variations as starting points for your own experimentation.

Coconut Pineapple Paradise

Transform your moonshine into a piña colada-inspired treat by adding toasted coconut during infusion. Spread 1 cup unsweetened coconut flakes on a baking sheet and toast at 325°F (163°C) until golden brown, watching carefully to prevent burning. Allow the coconut to cool completely before adding to your infusion jar alongside the pineapple. The toasting process releases essential oils that provide true coconut flavor rather than the suntan lotion notes that can come from raw coconut or artificial flavoring. For a creamier finish, consider adding a split vanilla bean during the final week of infusion. If you’re interested in exploring more fruity flavors, check out our strawberry lemonade moonshine recipe for cool summer sippin’.

Spiced Pineapple Kick

Adding warming spices creates a complex moonshine perfect for cooler months or evening sipping. Cinnamon and pineapple form a classic pairing, with 2-3 cinnamon sticks providing noticeable but balanced warmth. For more exotic notes, consider adding 3-4 whole cloves, a star anise pod, or a 1-inch piece of fresh ginger sliced thinly. These spices complement pineapple’s natural sweetness while adding depth that pure fruit infusions sometimes lack.

For those who enjoy heat with their sweet, adding a sliced jalapeño or habanero (seeds removed for milder heat) creates a fascinating contrast that wakes up your palate. The capsaicin from peppers extracts quickly, so taste test daily when using hot peppers and remove them when your desired heat level is reached, usually within 2-3 days rather than the full infusion period.

Citrus Pineapple Blend

Brightening your moonshine with additional citrus elements creates a refreshing variation perfect for summer cocktails and punches. Adding the zest (colored part only) of one orange and one lime provides complementary citrus notes without overwhelming the pineapple. For more intense citrus presence, include thin slices of the fruits themselves, being careful to remove all bitter white pith. This variation particularly shines when served over ice with a splash of soda water, creating an adult alternative to traditional lemonade that’s perfect for warm-weather gatherings. For a similar refreshing option, you might also enjoy this strawberry lemonade moonshine recipe.

1. Tropical Sunrise

This refreshing morning cocktail transforms your pineapple moonshine into a sophisticated brunch option. Mix 2 oz pineapple moonshine with 4 oz fresh orange juice and a splash of grenadine. Pour over ice and watch as the grenadine creates a beautiful sunrise effect in the glass. The combination of citrus brightness and tropical pineapple makes this an instant crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to create.

For an elevated version, try using blood orange juice instead of standard orange juice and garnish with a flamed orange peel. The complex citrus notes pair beautifully with the sweet pineapple undertones, creating layers of flavor that evolve as you sip. This cocktail proves that moonshine can compete with premium spirits in sophisticated drink applications.

2. Pineapple Moonshine Colada

Reimagine the classic piña colada with your homemade infusion for a drink that puts commercial versions to shame. Blend 3 oz pineapple moonshine with 2 oz cream of coconut, 2 oz pineapple juice, and 1 cup ice until smooth and frothy. Pour into a chilled hurricane glass and garnish with a pineapple wedge and cherry. The homemade moonshine adds depth and character that regular rum simply can’t match, while delivering a potent kick that reminds you this isn’t a standard resort beverage.

3. Island Breeze Punch

Perfect for entertaining, this large-format punch showcases your moonshine while making it party-appropriate. In a punch bowl, combine 2 cups pineapple moonshine, 3 cups pineapple juice, 2 cups mango juice, 1 cup orange juice, and 3 cups ginger ale. Add fresh fruit slices and a large ice block to keep it cold without diluting too quickly. This recipe serves 10-12 guests and can be adjusted up or down depending on your gathering size. The balanced sweetness and tropical flavors mask the potency, so be sure to warn guests about its deceptive strength.

Storage Tips and Shelf Life

Proper storage is crucial for preserving the quality and flavor of your pineapple moonshine. Unlike commercial spirits with precisely controlled production processes, homemade infusions require extra care to maintain their character over time. With the right approach, your tropical creation can last for months or even years while continuing to develop complex flavor notes. For more detailed guidance on creating and storing your homemade infusions, check out this pineapple moonshine recipe.

The high alcohol content in moonshine acts as a natural preservative, preventing bacterial growth that would spoil other homemade beverages. However, flavor compounds can still degrade over time, particularly when exposed to adverse conditions. Understanding how to properly store your moonshine makes the difference between a creation that improves with age and one that loses its charm too soon.

Best Containers for Long-Term Storage

Glass remains the gold standard for moonshine storage, with dark-colored bottles offering additional protection from light exposure. Amber or blue glass bottles with tight-sealing caps provide the best environment for long-term preservation. Avoid plastic containers entirely, as high-proof alcohol can leach chemicals from even food-grade plastics, affecting both safety and flavor. Mason jars work well for shorter-term storage but may not seal as effectively for very long periods. For those interested in exploring different flavors, try this peach brandy moonshine recipe for a sweet southern spirit.

If giving your moonshine as gifts, consider investing in decorative glass bottles with swing-top closures. These not only preserve your creation properly but also highlight the handcrafted nature of your spirits. Just ensure the rubber gaskets are in good condition, as these form the critical seal that prevents evaporation. For maximum presentation points, create custom labels noting the production date, ingredients, and suggested serving ideas. For more creative ideas, check out our fruit punch moonshine recipe.

How Temperature Affects Your Moonshine

Temperature fluctuations are the enemy of properly aged spirits. Store your pineapple moonshine in a cool, dark place with consistent temperature, ideally between 55-65°F (13-18°C). Avoid refrigeration for long-term storage, as the cold temperatures can cause some flavor compounds to precipitate out of solution, potentially affecting the balance of your infusion. However, chilling before serving is perfectly fine and often preferred for tropical varieties that shine when cold.

Signs Your Moonshine Has Gone Bad

While the high alcohol content makes bacterial contamination unlikely, improperly stored moonshine can still deteriorate in quality. Watch for significant color changes beyond the natural darkening that occurs with age, unusual cloudiness that doesn’t clear with settling, or off odors that weren’t present initially. Any visible mold (extremely rare but possible if the alcohol content was lower than expected) means the batch should be discarded immediately. Trust your senses—significant changes in flavor, especially the development of bitter or metallic notes, suggest the moonshine is past its prime enjoyment window.

Most well-made and properly stored pineapple moonshine will remain excellent for 1-2 years, with some batches continuing to improve during the first 6 months as flavors meld and mature. After opening a bottle, try to consume it within 3-6 months for the best flavor experience, as repeated exposure to air will gradually oxidize the contents and alter the taste profile.

Some moonshine enthusiasts intentionally age portions of their batches to compare how the flavor evolves over time. If you produce a large batch, consider bottling in various sizes so you can enjoy some immediately while allowing the rest to mature without repeatedly opening and exposing the main supply to air.

Aging Notes: Month 1 – Bright pineapple with pronounced alcohol heat; Month 3 – Mellower integration with developing complexity; Month 6 – Peak flavor balance for most batches; Year 1+ – Deeper, more caramelized pineapple notes emerge as fresher top notes begin to fade

Sip and Enjoy: The Rewards of Homemade Brewing

“How to start homebrewing? – Get Er …” from www.geterbrewed.com and used with no modifications.

The true magic of creating pineapple moonshine extends far beyond the glass. There’s an undeniable satisfaction in transforming simple ingredients into something remarkable through patience and craftsmanship. Each batch tells a story—of the season, the specific pineapple’s sweetness, and the care taken during preparation. Unlike mass-produced spirits with their consistency and predictability, your homemade creation carries unique character that can never be exactly replicated, even by following the same recipe twice.

As you share your pineapple moonshine with friends and family, you’re not just offering a beverage but extending a piece of your creativity and dedication. The conversations sparked around these homemade spirits often become as memorable as the drink itself—stories of how you discovered the recipe, tweaks you’ve made along the way, and plans for future batches. In our mass-produced world, these personal touches and imperfections become treasures rather than flaws. So raise a glass to the ancient tradition of home brewing, now carrying tropical sunshine in every sip through your perfectly crafted pineapple moonshine. For more inspiration and premium supplies for your home brewing adventures, Tropical Liquors offers everything needed to continue exploring this rewarding craft. Check out the quality built home stills we definitely recommend.

Frequently Asked Questions

After sharing this recipe with hundreds of home brewers, certain questions arise consistently. Here are straightforward answers to the most common inquiries about making and enjoying pineapple moonshine.

How strong is pineapple moonshine compared to other spirits?

The final strength of your pineapple moonshine depends primarily on your starting alcohol. When using 190-proof Everclear, the finished product typically ranges between 50-70% alcohol by volume (100-140 proof), making it significantly stronger than commercial spirits like vodka or rum (typically 40% ABV/80 proof). The addition of sugar syrup and fruit juice dilutes the original proof somewhat. If you prefer a less potent version, you can dilute the finished product with water or additional pineapple juice to reach your desired strength, though this will also dilute the flavor intensity. For more details on crafting this tropical delight, check out this pineapple moonshine recipe.

Can I use other fruits with my pineapple moonshine?

Absolutely! Pineapple pairs beautifully with many other fruits to create complex flavor profiles. Mango and pineapple create a tropical symphony, while strawberries add a different dimension of sweetness. Stone fruits like peaches work wonderfully during summer months. When adding secondary fruits, maintain the same total fruit volume rather than simply adding more, which would throw off your fruit-to-alcohol ratio. Keep in mind that softer fruits like berries will break down more quickly during infusion, so you might need to strain these earlier or add them later in the process.

How long does pineapple moonshine need to infuse for best flavor?

While minimum infusion time is 5-7 days, optimal flavor development typically occurs around the two-week mark for pineapple moonshine. During this period, the harsh edges of the alcohol soften while fully extracting the complex flavor compounds from the fruit. Extended infusion beyond three weeks rarely improves the result and can sometimes introduce bitter notes from the pineapple core or overextracted fruit. Temperature affects this timeline—warmer environments speed up the process, while cooler storage slows it down. The best approach is tasting small amounts periodically after the first week until you reach your preferred flavor profile.

Is it legal to make pineapple moonshine at home?

This recipe uses commercially purchased alcohol as its base, making it an infusion rather than true distillation, which is legal in most places. True moonshine production—involving fermentation and distillation—requires federal permits in the United States and is regulated differently across countries. This recipe sidesteps those concerns by starting with already-distilled spirits. However, regulations vary by location, so it’s always wise to check local laws regarding alcohol infusions, particularly if you plan to share or sell your creation. In most places, making infused spirits for personal consumption follows similar legal guidelines as making homemade wine or beer.

Can I make pineapple moonshine without using Everclear or high-proof alcohol?

Yes, though the result will differ somewhat from traditional moonshine. Vodka makes a suitable alternative base at 80-100 proof (40-50% ABV), creating what would technically be a pineapple vodka infusion rather than moonshine. The lower alcohol content extracts flavors more slowly and less completely, so you might need to extend infusion time by a few days. The finished product will be smoother and less potent, making it more accessible for casual sipping but less effective as a cocktail base where the fruit flavor needs to shine through other ingredients. For best results with lower-proof spirits, consider increasing the amount of pineapple slightly to ensure robust flavor extraction.

Remember that homemade spirit making improves with practice and experimentation. Each batch teaches you something new about flavors, timing, and techniques that inform future creations. Take notes on each batch, recording not just the recipe but observations about the process and results. These notes become invaluable as your brewing journey continues, allowing you to refine your approach and develop signature creations uniquely your own.

The world of homemade fruit-infused spirits extends far beyond this single recipe. Once you’ve mastered pineapple moonshine, consider exploring seasonal variations with locally available fruits, creating special batches to mark occasions, or developing signature blends that showcase your personal taste preferences. Many home brewers find this craft becomes a rewarding hobby that connects them to traditional food preservation practices while creating products simply unavailable through commercial channels.

Pineapple moonshine is a delightful tropical drink that brings a taste of the islands to your home. This homemade beverage is perfect for those who enjoy experimenting with flavors and crafting their own spirits. For those who love fruity and bold flavors, you might also want to try this raspberry moonshine recipe for a refreshing twist. Before you go take a look at some of this cool moonshine merch we like.