How to Make Lemon-Lavender Moonshine

Imagine a refreshing drink that combines the zesty brightness of lemon with the calming, aromatic touch of lavender. Sounds like the perfect spring or summer sipper, right?

That’s exactly what lemon-lavender moonshine offers—a delightful blend that’s both invigorating and soothing.

Whether you’re hosting a garden party or just relaxing on a sunny afternoon, this moonshine is sure to impress.

Ready to get started? Let’s dive in! And remember, always enjoy your moonshine responsibly and follow your local laws.

Ingredients and Equipment

List of Ingredients

Before we jump into the fun part, let’s make sure you have everything you need.

Here’s your shopping list:

  • 750 ml high-proof alcohol (such as Everclear or vodka): Acts as the alcoholic component.
  • 4 cups water: Used to create the infusion base.
  • 2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the mixture.
  • 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice: Provides a bright, citrusy flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons dried culinary lavender: Imparts a floral note.
  • 1 lemon, zested: Enhances the citrus aroma.

    Necessary Equipment

    Got your ingredients? Great!

    Now, let’s check off the equipment list:

    • Large saucepan: For cooking your lavender syrup.
    • Mason jars or glass containers: These will be your moonshine’s home while it infuses.
    • Funnel: To make pouring easy and mess-free.
    • Measuring cups and spoons: Precision is key!
    • Strainer: To remove the solid bits before serving.
    • Zester or grater: For prepping the lemon zest.

    Preparation Steps

    Step 1: Preparing the Lemons

    First things first, let’s get those lemons ready. Wash them thoroughly, then zest and juice them.

    The zest will add a bright, citrusy flavor, while the juice brings that fresh, tangy kick. Think of it like prepping for a lemonade stand—except with a boozy twist.

    Step 2: Making the Lavender Syrup

    Next up, we need to make the lavender syrup. In a large saucepan, combine the dried lavender, honey or sugar, and water.

    Heat the mixture gently over medium heat, stirring constantly until the honey or sugar is fully dissolved. It’s like making a simple syrup but with lavender’s delightful floral aroma.

    This syrup will be the backbone of your moonshine, providing a smooth, sweet base.

    Combining and Infusing

    Step 3: Mixing Ingredients in a Saucepan

    Now for the fun part—bringing all the flavors together! Add the lemon juice and zest to the lavender syrup in the saucepan. Stir well to combine.

    This mixture will be simmering away, allowing the lemon and lavender to infuse their flavors into the sweet syrup.

    It’s like creating a fragrant potion that will soon turn into something magical.

    Step 4: Simmering the Mixture

    Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Let it cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

    This step is crucial for melding all those wonderful flavors together. Think of it as slow-cooking a delicious stew—the longer it simmers, the better it gets.

    Step 5: Cooling and Adding Alcohol

    Once your mixture has simmered to perfection, remove it from the heat and let it cool to room temperature.

    This is important because you don’t want to add alcohol to a hot mixture (unless you’re aiming for a kitchen science experiment!).

    When it’s cool, pour in your high-proof alcohol and give it a good stir. The alcohol will extract even more flavor from the lemon and lavender, creating a rich, complex moonshine.

    Bottling and Storing

    Step 6: Transferring to Jars

    Now that your lemon-lavender moonshine mixture is ready, it’s time to transfer it to mason jars.

    Using a funnel, carefully pour the mixture into each jar. Make sure to leave a bit of space at the top to allow for any expansion during storage. It’s like bottling up a bit of summer sunshine!

    Step 7: Sealing and Shaking

    Once your jars are filled, seal them tightly with their lids. Give each jar a good shake to make sure everything is well-mixed.

    It’s like shaking up a snow globe—everything swirls around, creating a beautiful blend of flavors.

    Step 8: Infusion Period

    Now comes the hard part: waiting. Let your jars sit for at least one week. Store them in a cool, dark place and give them a shake every few days.

    This infusion period allows all the flavors to meld together into a harmonious blend. Think of it like letting a fine wine age—the longer it sits, the better it gets.

    Final Touches and Serving

    Step 9: Tasting and Adjusting

    The wait is finally over! It’s time to taste your lemon-lavender moonshine. Open a jar and take a small sip.

    How’s the flavor? If it’s not sweet enough or needs a bit more lavender kick, feel free to adjust by adding more honey or a few more lavender buds.

    Think of it like tweaking a recipe—you want to get it just right.

    Step 10: Straining

    If you prefer a smooth drink without any solid bits, strain your moonshine using a fine mesh strainer. Pour the liquid into a clean container, leaving the lemon zest and lavender buds behind.

    This step is optional but can make your moonshine look and taste smoother. It’s like straining tea leaves for a cleaner brew.

    Step 11: Bottling and Storing

    Once you’re happy with the flavor and consistency, it’s time to bottle your moonshine.

    Transfer the liquid into clean, airtight bottles. Label them if you’re feeling fancy—this can be especially fun if you’re planning to give some away as gifts. Store your bottles in a cool, dark place to keep the flavors fresh.

    And remember, the longer it sits, the better it gets. It’s like aging fine wine but way more refreshing!

    Serving Suggestions

    Creative Cocktails

    Now that you’ve got your lemon-lavender moonshine ready, let’s talk about how to serve it. You can enjoy it straight, on the rocks, or mix it into some fabulous cocktails.

    Here are a few ideas to get you started:

    • Lemon-Lavender Spritzer: Mix your moonshine with sparkling water and a splash of lemon juice. Serve over ice with a lemon twist.
    • Lavender Lemonade: Combine your moonshine with fresh lemonade for a refreshing, floral drink. Serve over ice with a sprig of lavender.
    • Lemon-Lavender Martini: Shake your moonshine with vodka and a dash of triple sec. Serve in a chilled martini glass with a lemon twist.

    Presentation Tips

    When serving your moonshine at parties or gatherings, presentation is key. Consider using elegant glasses to match the delicate, aromatic nature of your moonshine.

    Add some fun garnishes like lemon slices or a sprig of lavender. If you’re gifting the moonshine, decorate the bottles with ribbons or custom labels.

    Think of it like setting the stage for a refreshing escape—you want everything to look as good as it tastes!

    Conclusion

    To wrap things up, making lemon-lavender moonshine is a fun and creative way to bring some refreshing vibes into your life.

    From choosing your favorite flavors to experimenting with different cocktails, the possibilities are endless. Remember to always enjoy your creations responsibly and stay within the legal guidelines for alcohol production in your area.

    Happy brewing, and cheers to your delicious creations!

    So, what are you waiting for? Gather your supplies, pick your favorite lemon and lavender flavors, and start creating your own delightful moonshine today! Cheers!

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