How to Make Lemonade Moonshine

Imagine sipping on a drink that perfectly balances tangy lemon and sweet syrup, capturing the essence of a classic lemonade but with a boozy twist.

That’s what you get with lemonade moonshine—a refreshing, zesty concoction that’s perfect for summer gatherings or any time you need a refreshing pick-me-up.

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

Ingredients and Equipment

List of Ingredients

Before we get started, let’s make sure you have everything you need.

Here’s your shopping list:

• High-proof alcohol: Everclear or vodka is your best bet. They’ll give your moonshine the kick it needs.
• Fresh lemons: For that authentic citrus flavor.
• Sugar: To sweeten things up.
• Water: For making the simple syrup.
• Lemon zest (optional): For an extra burst of flavor.
• Vanilla extract (optional): Adds a creamy, smooth touch.

Necessary Equipment

Got your ingredients? Great!

Now, let’s check off the equipment list:

• Large saucepan: For cooking your simple syrup and mixing ingredients.
• 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 any solid bits before serving.
• Knife and cutting board: For preparing the lemons.
• Citrus juicer (optional): To make juicing lemons easier.

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Preparing the Lemons

First things first, let’s get those lemons ready. Zest the lemons to get that flavorful outer layer, then juice them.

If you’ve got a citrus juicer, now’s the time to use it. Think of it like prepping for a refreshing lemonade—except this one has a boozy twist!

Step 2: Making the Simple Syrup

Next, we need to make the simple syrup. In a large saucepan, combine equal parts sugar and water.

Heat the mixture gently over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is fully dissolved. It’s like making the base for a sweet, sticky potion that will serve as the backbone of our moonshine.

Combining and Infusing

Step 3: Mixing Ingredients in a Saucepan

Now for the fun part—bringing all the flavors together! Add the lemon juice, zest, and vanilla extract (if you’re using it) to the simple syrup in the saucepan.

Stir well to combine. This mixture will be simmering away, allowing the lemon and vanilla to infuse their flavors into the sweet syrup.

It’s like creating a comforting lemon-vanilla brew that’s bound to delight your taste buds.

Step 4: Simmering the Mixture

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Let it cook for about 20-30 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 infuse with all those delicious flavors, creating a rich, complex moonshine.

Bottling and Storing

Step 6: Transferring to Jars

Now that your lemonade 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 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 lemonade moonshine. Open a jar and take a small sip.

How’s the flavor? If it’s not sweet enough or needs a bit more lemony zing, feel free to adjust by adding more sugar or lemon juice. 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 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 with a citrusy twist!

Serving Suggestions

Creative Cocktails

Now that you’ve got your lemonade 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 Drop Martini: Shake your moonshine with vodka and a splash of triple sec. Serve in a chilled martini glass with a sugared rim.
• Sparkling Lemonade: Mix your moonshine with club soda and a splash of lemonade. Serve over ice with a lemon slice.
• Citrus Cooler: Combine your moonshine with orange juice and a splash of grenadine. Serve over ice with a cherry garnish.

Presentation Tips

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

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

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

Conclusion

To wrap things up, making lemonade moonshine is a fun and creative way to bring some sweet and tangy flavors into your life.

From choosing your favorite ingredients 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 flavors, and start creating your own delightful moonshine today! Cheers!