How to Make Orange Moonshine

If you’re a fan of citrusy drinks that are both refreshing and slightly tart, this Orange Moonshine recipe is for you.

Combining the bright, tangy flavors of fresh oranges with the warmth of moonshine, this homemade concoction is perfect for summer afternoons, holiday gatherings, or just sipping on a relaxing evening.

Ready to bring a burst of sunshine into your glass? Let’s get started!

Ingredients

Before we dive into the process, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need:

• High-proof alcohol (Everclear or vodka): The base of your moonshine.
• Fresh oranges: For that sweet, tangy flavor.
• Orange zest: Adds an extra punch of citrus.
• Sugar: To balance the tartness and enhance the orange flavor.
• Water: For creating a simple syrup and diluting the alcohol slightly.
• Vanilla extract (optional): Adds a warm, sweet note to the mix.
• Lemon juice (optional): For a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness.

Necessary Equipment

Got your ingredients? Great! Here’s the equipment you’ll need:

• Large saucepan: For making the orange syrup and mixing ingredients.
• Zester or grater: To zest the oranges.
• Juicer: To extract the juice from the oranges.
• Whisk: To blend everything smoothly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Precision is key!
• Mason jars or glass bottles: For storing your moonshine.
• Funnel: To make pouring into jars easier.

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Preparing the Oranges

Start by zesting the oranges to collect enough zest for the recipe. Then, juice the oranges to get fresh, vibrant orange juice. The combination of juice and zest will give your moonshine a rich, full-bodied citrus flavor.

Step 2: Creating the Orange Syrup

In a large saucepan, combine the orange juice, orange zest, sugar, and water. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is fully dissolved.

Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together and the syrup thicken slightly.

If you’re adding vanilla extract or lemon juice, stir them in now to add extra layers of flavor.

Step 3: Incorporating the Alcohol

Once your orange syrup is ready, remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool to room temperature.

After it has cooled, slowly pour in the high-proof alcohol, whisking continuously to ensure it blends smoothly with the citrusy base.

The alcohol will infuse with the orange flavor, creating a moonshine that’s bright, zesty, and delicious.

Bottling and Storing

Step 4: Bottling Your Moonshine

Now that your Orange Moonshine is ready, it’s time to bottle it up. Using a funnel, carefully pour the mixture into mason jars or glass bottles.

Be sure to leave a little space at the top of each jar to allow for any expansion during storage. This is your bottled sunshine, ready to brighten up any occasion!

Step 5: Storing and Letting It Sit

Seal your jars or bottles tightly and store them in the refrigerator. For best results, let your moonshine sit for at least 24 hours before serving.

This allows the flavors to meld together into a smooth, harmonious blend. The longer it sits, the more the flavors will develop, so feel free to prepare it a few days in advance.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoying Straight or on the Rocks

Your Orange Moonshine is ready to enjoy! You can sip it straight from the jar or serve it over ice for a refreshing twist.

The sweet, tangy flavor combined with the warmth of the alcohol makes it a perfect drink for any occasion, especially during warm weather or holiday celebrations.

Creative Cocktail Ideas

If you’re in the mood to get creative, here are a few cocktail ideas:

• Orange Creamsicle: Mix your moonshine with a splash of cream and a bit of vanilla extract, then serve over ice for a nostalgic, creamy treat.
• Citrus Spritzer: Blend your moonshine with sparkling water and a splash of lime juice for a light, fizzy drink.
• Orange Margarita: Shake your moonshine with tequila, lime juice, and a touch of triple sec, then serve in a salt-rimmed glass.

Presentation Tips

When serving your Orange Moonshine, presentation is key. Consider garnishing your drinks with an orange slice, a twist of orange peel, or a sprig of mint for a bit of extra flair.

If you’re gifting your moonshine, tie a ribbon around the jar and add a personalized label for a thoughtful touch.

Conclusion

And there you have it—your very own Orange Moonshine! This recipe is a fun and delicious way to capture the bright, tangy flavors of fresh oranges in a boozy, homemade drink.

Whether you’re sipping it straight, mixing it into cocktails, or sharing it with friends, it’s sure to be a hit.

Remember to always enjoy responsibly and store your moonshine in a cool, dark place to keep it fresh.

Cheers to your citrusy and refreshing creation!