Pumpkin Spice Moonshine 🎃🥃🍂 Cozy, Sweet, and Spiced Just Right With a Boozy Autumn Kick
This infused spirit blends pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla with apple cider and a mix of Everclear or vodka. It’s dangerously drinkable, best served chilled or over ice — and gets better after a few days of steeping.
Ingredients (Makes ~3–4 quarts)
Base
- 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie mix)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ¾ cup white sugar
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- ¼ tsp cloves
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
Liquid
- 4 cups apple cider
- 2 cups water
- 1 (750 ml) bottle 190-proof Everclear or 80–100 proof vodka (see notes)
Optional add-ins
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice
- Orange zest or a splash of maple syrup (for twist)
Instructions
Step 1: Make the base syrup
In a large pot over medium heat, combine pumpkin, sugars, spices, cider, and water. Whisk well and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir frequently and let cook 10–15 minutes until sugars dissolve and flavors blend.
Step 2: Cool completely
Remove from heat and let the mixture cool fully to room temperature. This is crucial before adding alcohol.
Step 3: Add alcohol
Once the base is fully cool, stir in vanilla and Everclear or vodka. Mix thoroughly. Taste — it should be sweet, spiced, and boozy. Adjust with more spice or syrup if needed.
Step 4: Strain and bottle
Optional but recommended: strain through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove solids. Pour into clean mason jars or glass bottles. Seal tightly.
Step 5: Let steep
Store in the fridge for at least 3–5 days before drinking — flavor improves with time. Keeps up to 2 months chilled.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve cold in small glasses or shot jars
- Mix with cream soda or ginger beer for a cocktail
- Add a splash to hot cider or coffee
- Rim glasses with cinnamon sugar for extra flair
Flavor Variations
- Add maple syrup or molasses for richness
- Infuse with whole spices like star anise or cardamom
- Swap apple cider for pear or spiced tea for a twist
- Use bourbon instead of vodka for a deeper flavor
Pro Tips
- Always let the mixture cool completely before adding alcohol — or it’ll burn off the booze
- Everclear gives a stronger kick; vodka is smoother and more mellow
- Label jars with “Refrigerate” and proof level if gifting
- Shake well before pouring — natural sediment may settle
Final Thoughts
Pumpkin Spice Moonshine is cozy, festive, and just the right mix of sweet and strong. Sip it slow, share it generously, or turn it into signature cocktails — it’s autumn in a jar, with attitude.
Simmer it. Spike it. Sip it chilled. 🎃🥃🍂
Pumpkin Spice Crockpot Moonshine
Ingredients
- High-proof alcohol
- 1 can pumpkin puree
- 2 cups brown sugar
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In your crockpot, combine the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, white sugar, and pumpkin pie spice.
- Cook: Set the crockpot to low and let the mixture simmer for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Cool: Turn off the crockpot and let the mixture cool to room temperature.
- Add Alcohol: Once cooled, add the high-proof alcohol and vanilla extract. Stir well.
- Bottle: Pour the moonshine into mason jars, seal tightly, and let it sit for at least a week to allow the flavors to meld together.
👉 More DIY Moonshine Magic Recipes
Explore all of our top moonshine recipe collections — from seasonal flavors to creative dessert infusions. Whether you’re making gifts, prepping party drinks, or just experimenting with bold new batches, there’s a roundup for every style.
- 🍑 Fruit Moonshine Recipes
- 🥧 Cobbler-Inspired Moonshines
- 🍪 Cookie Moonshine Recipes
- 🍬 Dessert-Inspired Moonshine Collection
- ☀️ Summer Moonshine Collection
- 🍋 Summer Lemonade Moonshine Recipes
- 🍓 Berry Moonshine Recipes
- 🏖️ Tropical Moonshine Collection
- 🌶️ Spicy & Bold Moonshine Collection
- 🔥 Campfire Moonshine Recipes
- 🎄 Holiday Moonshine Recipes
- 🎁 Moonshine Recipes: Christmas Edition
- 🍴 Foodie Moonshine Recipes
So, what are you waiting for? Gather your supplies, pick your favorite pumpkin spice flavors, and start creating your own delightful moonshine today! Cheers!