How to Make Starburst Moonshine
If you’re a fan of the fruity, chewy goodness of Starburst candies, you’re going to love this Starburst Moonshine recipe.
This colorful and fun drink captures the sweet, tangy flavors of your favorite Starburst candies and combines them with the kick of moonshine, creating a unique and vibrant beverage that’s perfect for parties or just a fun treat.
Ready to bring a burst of fruity flavor into your glass? Let’s get started!
Ingredients
Before we begin, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need:
- High-proof alcohol (Everclear or vodka): The base of your moonshine.
- Starburst candies (assorted flavors): The star ingredient, providing the bright, fruity flavor.
- Granulated sugar (optional): To sweeten to taste.
- Lemon juice (optional): Adds a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness.
- Water: To help dissolve the candies and dilute the alcohol slightly.
Necessary Equipment
Got your ingredients? Great! Here’s the equipment you’ll need:
- Large jars or mason jars: For mixing and storing your moonshine.
- Whisk or spoon: To blend everything smoothly.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Precision is key!
- Strainer (optional): To remove any undissolved candy pieces.
- Funnel: To make pouring into jars easier.
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Unwrapping the Starburst
Start by unwrapping your Starburst candies. You can choose to make a single-flavor moonshine or mix and match different flavors for a colorful blend. Place the unwrapped candies into large jars or mason jars.
Step 2: Dissolving the Starburst
Add enough water to each jar to just cover the Starburst candies. Seal the jars and shake them vigorously to start dissolving the candies.
Let the jars sit at room temperature for a few hours, shaking them occasionally, until the candies are fully dissolved.
This will create a brightly colored, sweet syrup that serves as the base for your moonshine.
Step 3: Incorporating the Alcohol
Once the candies are fully dissolved, it’s time to add the high-proof alcohol. Slowly pour in the Everclear or vodka, whisking or stirring continuously to ensure it blends smoothly with the fruity syrup.
If you prefer a slightly less sweet drink, you can add a splash of lemon juice to balance the flavors. For an extra-smooth moonshine, you can strain the mixture to remove any remaining candy bits.
Bottling and Storing
Step 4: Bottling Your Moonshine
Now that your Starburst Moonshine is ready, it’s time to bottle it up. Using a funnel, carefully pour the mixture into mason jars or glass bottles.
The bright, colorful liquid is sure to catch the eye, making it a fun and attractive drink to serve or gift.
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 Starburst Moonshine is ready to enjoy! You can sip it straight from the jar or serve it over ice for a refreshing, fruity drink.
The vibrant flavors and colors make it perfect for parties, especially when you want to impress your guests with something fun and unique.
Creative Cocktail Ideas
If you’re in the mood to get creative, here are a few cocktail ideas using your Starburst Moonshine:
- Starburst Lemonade: Mix your moonshine with lemonade for a sweet and tangy drink that’s bursting with flavor.
- Starburst Margarita: Shake your moonshine with tequila, lime juice, and a splash of triple sec, then serve in a salt-rimmed glass.
- Starburst Spritzer: Blend your moonshine with sparkling water and a squeeze of citrus for a light, fizzy drink.
Presentation Tips
When serving your Starburst Moonshine, presentation is key. Consider garnishing each glass with a piece of Starburst candy or a slice of citrus for a fun, colorful touch.
If you’re gifting your moonshine, tie a ribbon around the jar and add a personalized label to make it extra special.
Conclusion
And there you have it—your very own Starburst Moonshine! This recipe is a playful and delicious way to enjoy the fruity flavors of Starburst candies 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 sweet and colorful creation!