How to Make Sweet Tea Moonshine

If you’re a fan of the Southern classic sweet tea and enjoy a bit of a kick in your drinks, then Sweet Tea Moonshine is the perfect blend for you.

This delightful concoction combines the refreshing taste of sweet tea with the warmth of moonshine, creating a drink that’s ideal for sipping on a hot day or sharing with friends at a backyard barbecue.

Ready to make your own batch of this Southern-inspired spirit? 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.
• Black tea bags: For that classic sweet tea flavor.
• Granulated sugar: To sweeten the tea to your liking.
• Fresh lemon juice (optional): Adds a citrusy brightness.
• Honey (optional): For a natural sweetness that complements the tea.
• Mint leaves (optional): For a refreshing, aromatic touch.
• Water: To brew the tea and dilute the alcohol slightly.

Necessary Equipment

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

• Large saucepan: For brewing the tea and mixing ingredients.
• Whisk or spoon: To mix everything together smoothly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Precision is key!
• Pitcher or large jar: For storing your sweet tea moonshine.
• Mason jars or glass bottles: For serving and storing your moonshine.
• Funnel: To make pouring into jars easier.

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Brewing the Sweet Tea

Start by bringing 4 cups of water to a boil in a large saucepan. Once the water is boiling, remove it from heat and add the black tea bags.

Let the tea steep for about 10 minutes to ensure a strong, robust flavor.

After steeping, remove the tea bags and stir in the granulated sugar until it’s fully dissolved. This sweet tea will serve as the base for your moonshine.

Step 2: Adding the Lemon and Honey

Once your sweet tea is ready, allow it to cool slightly. For an extra layer of flavor, stir in fresh lemon juice and honey.

The lemon adds a bright, citrusy note, while the honey provides a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the tea. If you prefer your tea more traditional, you can skip these optional ingredients.

Step 3: Incorporating the Alcohol

Once the tea mixture has cooled to room temperature, it’s time to add the high-proof alcohol.

Slowly pour in the Everclear or vodka, whisking continuously to ensure it blends smoothly with the sweet tea. The alcohol will infuse with the tea, creating a moonshine that’s both refreshing and potent.

Bottling and Storing

Step 4: Bottling Your Moonshine

Now that your Sweet Tea 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. It’s like bottling up a taste of the South, ready to enjoy whenever you like!

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 Sweet Tea Moonshine is ready to enjoy! You can sip it straight from the jar or serve it over ice for a refreshing, cooling drink.

The sweet, smooth flavor combined with the warmth of the alcohol makes it a perfect drink for any occasion, especially during the summer.

Creative Cocktail Ideas

If you’re in the mood to get creative, here are a few cocktail ideas using your Sweet Tea Moonshine:

• Sweet Tea Lemonade: Mix your moonshine with lemonade for a sweet and tangy twist.
• Mint Julep Moonshine: Add fresh mint leaves and a splash of club soda to your moonshine for a Southern-inspired cocktail.
• Peach Tea Moonshine: Blend your moonshine with peach nectar for a fruity variation.

Presentation Tips

When serving your Sweet Tea Moonshine, presentation is key. Consider garnishing each glass with a lemon slice or a sprig of mint for a touch of flair.

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

Conclusion

And there you have it—your very own Sweet Tea Moonshine! This recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the classic flavors of sweet tea with a boozy twist.

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 refreshing creation!