How to Make Apple Pie Shots with Everclear: Your Ultimate Fall Boozy Treat!

Hey there, folks! If you’re lookin’ to whip up a drink that screams fall coziness with a serious punch, you’ve gotta try makin’ apple pie shots with Everclear. This ain’t just any ol’ cocktail—it’s like sippin’ on a slice of warm apple pie, but with a kick that’ll knock your socks off. I’m talkin’ about a blend of sweet apple goodness, spicy cinnamon vibes, and that high-octane Everclear grain alcohol that makes it a real party starter. Whether you’re hostin’ a get-together or need a unique gift idea, these shots are where it’s at. Let’s dive right into how we can make this boozy magic happen in your kitchen!

Why Apple Pie Shots Are the Bomb

Before we get to mixin’, let me tell ya why I’m obsessed with these shots. They capture everything I love about autumn—think apple pickin’, crisp evenings, and that warm spicy scent of pie fresh outta the oven. But instead of bakin’, we’re turnin’ those flavors into a liquid treat that’s perfect for sharin’ with friends. Plus, usin’ Everclear means you get a potent base that lets the apple and spice shine without any weird aftertaste. It’s strong sure, but when done right, it goes down smooth as heck.

What You’ll Need to Make Apple Pie Shots

Alright, let’s gather up the goods. I’ve tweaked this recipe over time to get that perfect balance of sweet, spicy and strong. Here’s what you’re gonna need to make a big batch—trust me you’ll want plenty to go around!

Equipment:

• A big ol’ stock pot (12 quarts or bigger)
• Cheesecloth and twine (or a spoon to fish out sticks)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Funnel (for bottlin’)
• Mason jars or bottles (16oz ones are great for gifting)
• Stove for simmerin’

Step-by-Step: Craftin’ Your Apple Pie Shots

Now that we got our stuff ready, let’s roll up our sleeves and make these bad boys I’ll walk ya through it nice and easy, so even if you ain’t a kitchen whiz, you’ll nail it. Safety first though—Everclear is no joke, so we gotta handle it with care Here’s the game plan

1. Prep the Spices: Grab them cinnamon sticks and wrap ‘em up in cheesecloth, tyin’ it tight with twine. This makes it easier to pull ‘em out later. If you don’t got cheesecloth, no worries—just use a spoon to fish ‘em out when we’re done. The more sticks ya use, the spicier it gets, so tweak it to your likin’.
2. Mix the Base: In your giant stock pot, pour in the apple juice, apple cider, white sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. Toss in the wrapped cinnamon sticks too. Stir it up a bit to get the sugar mixin’ with the liquids.
3. Simmer the Flavors: Set the pot on medium heat and bring it to a slow boil. Keep stirrin’ now and then so the sugar don’t stick to the bottom. Once it’s bubblin’, turn the heat down low, cover it up, and let it simmer for about 45 minutes to an hour. You’ll start smellin’ that apple pie aroma—pure heaven! The longer ya simmer, the deeper the flavors get.
4. Cool It Down: This step is super important, y’all. Turn off the heat and let the mixture cool completely. I mean completely—like, room temp or cooler. Don’t even think about addin’ the Everclear while it’s hot. That stuff is flammable, and we ain’t tryin’ to start a fire here!
5. Strain the Solids: Once cooled, pull out the cinnamon sticks (or strain through cheesecloth if ya used it). You can toss the sticks or keep ‘em for decor on your jars. If there’s any gunk, strain the whole mix through a fine sieve to get it nice and smooth.
6. Add the Booze: Now, in a big container or back in the pot, stir in the Everclear. Start with 1 cup, taste it (carefully!), and add more if ya want it stronger. I usually go for 1.5 cups total, but you do you. If you’re usin’ vanilla vodka for a softer kick, toss that in now too. Mix it real good.
7. Bottle It Up: Usin’ a funnel, pour your apple pie shots into clean, sanitized mason jars or bottles. Seal ‘em tight with lids. Pop ‘em in the fridge for at least 24 hours before servin’—this lets the flavors meld and makes it super smooth.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Shake the jars a bit before pourin’ into shot glasses. Serve chilled, and remind everyone to sip slow—this ain’t lemonade, it’s got a serious punch!

Why Fall is the Best Time for Apple Pie Shots

I gotta say, there’s somethin’ magical about makin’ these shots when the leaves are turnin’ and the air gets crisp. Fall just screams apples and cinnamon, don’t it? Me and my crew usually whip up a batch after a day of apple pickin’—it’s like bottlin’ up the whole season. These shots are perfect for bonfires, Halloween bashes, or just cozyin’ up with a blanket. And since they keep for ages in the fridge, you can make ‘em early and have ‘em ready for Thanksgiving or holiday parties.

Storage Tips: Keepin’ Your Shots Fresh

Speakin’ of keepin’ things fresh, let’s chat about storage. Once you’ve poured your apple pie shots into them mason jars, make sure the lids are on tight. Stick ‘em in the refrigerator, and they’ll stay good for up to a year—yep, a whole year! The Everclear acts like a preservative, so you don’t gotta worry much. Just give the jar a lil’ shake before servin’ if it’s been sittin’ a while. One big no-no though—don’t freeze ‘em. The liquid expands and could crack your jars, makin’ a mess you don’t wanna deal with.

Turnin’ Shots into Gifts: Spread the Love

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how awesome it is for givin’ away. Pour the shots into 16oz mason jars, slap on a cute ribbon or bow, and you’ve got a kick-ass gift for neighbors, pals, or family. I’ve handed these out durin’ the holidays, and folks go nuts for ‘em. Write a lil’ tag with servin’ instructions (like “shake and sip chilled”), and you’re golden. It’s a personal touch that shows ya put heart into it, and trust me, they’ll be beggin’ for more next year.

Safety First: Handlin’ Everclear Like a Pro

Alright, let’s get serious for a sec. Everclear ain’t your average booze—it’s high-proof grain alcohol, like 190 proof strong. That means you gotta respect it. I can’t stress this enough: never, ever drink it straight or add it to a hot mixture. Always dilute it with the apple mix like we did, and measure it out proper with a cup—don’t just eyeball it and hope for the best. When you’re mixin’, keep it away from flames or heat sources till it’s all cooled down. And when you’re drinkin’, go slow. These shots taste sweet and easy, but they pack a wallop. Know your limits, and don’t even think about drivin’ after a few. Keep the jars labeled and outta reach of kids or pets too—just to be safe.

Variations: Mixin’ Up Your Apple Pie Shots

Wanna get creative with this recipe? I’m all for it! Here’s a few twists I’ve tried or heard of that can jazz up your batch:

• Switch the Apples: If you’re feelin’ fancy, use different apple types for the juice or cider. Tart ones like Granny Smith give a zing, while sweeter ones like Honeycrisp mellow it out. Mix and match for a unique vibe.
• Spice It Up: Don’t got all the spices? No biggie. Cinnamon is the star, but you can skip nutmeg or toss in a pinch of allspice for extra depth. Got a pre-made apple pie spice blend? That works too—just adjust so it ain’t overpowerin’.
• Booze Swap: If Everclear feels too intense, you can sub in regular vodka or a lower-proof grain alcohol. You might need a bit more to match the strength, though. Vanilla vodka adds a nice smoothness if you’re goin’ that route.
• Sweetness Level: Play with the sugar amounts. Some folks like it less sweet, so cut back on the white sugar. Or, drizzle in some maple syrup for an earthy twist. Taste after simmerin’ and tweak it.

Pairin’ Ideas: What Goes with Apple Pie Shots

These shots are a treat on their own, but pairin’ ‘em with food takes it to another level. I love servin’ ‘em as a dessert shot alongside somethin’ simple like campfire s’mores—the chocolate and marshmallow vibe with the apple is pure bliss. For a meal, try ‘em with a hearty apple-based dish, like a pork and apple skillet. It’s all about keepin’ that fall theme goin’. And if you’re at a party, set out some cinnamon-sugar rimmed shot glasses with a tiny apple slice on the side—looks cute and tastes amazin’.

Why Everclear Makes the Difference

Let’s talk about why we’re usin’ Everclear in the first place. This stuff is a game-changer for homemade shots ‘cause it’s got a neutral taste—none of that weird burn some liquors leave behind. It lets the apple, cinnamon, and sugar do their thing without stealin’ the show. But ‘cause it’s so darn strong, it infuses the flavors quick and packs a punch in small doses. Just remember, dilution is your friend. We mix it with tons of apple juice and cider to make it safe and tasty, not a health hazard.

Common Hiccups and How to Fix ‘Em

Even with a recipe this straightforward, stuff can go sideways. Here’s some snags I’ve hit and how to dodge ‘em:

• Too Strong? If your shots taste like pure fire, you prob’ly added too much Everclear. No sweat—mix in more apple juice or cider to tone it down. Start small next time and build up.
• Not Enough Flavor? If it’s bland, might be you didn’t simmer long enough. Let the next batch cook low and slow for up to 3 hours to really pull out them apple and spice notes.
• Cloudy Lookin’? If your mix ain’t clear after strainin’, that’s fine—it’s just sediment. Strain again through a finer mesh if it bugs ya, but it won’t hurt the taste.
• Jars Leakin’? Make sure them lids are tight, and don’t overfill. Leave a lil’ space at the top. And double-check your jars ain’t cracked before pourin’ hot liquid in.

Final Thoughts: Sip Smart and Have Fun

Makin’ apple pie shots with Everclear is one of them projects that’s as fun as it is rewardin’. You get to play mad scientist in the kitchen, fillin’ your home with smells that’ll make everyone drool, and end up with a drink that’s perfect for any fall shindig. I’ve made batches for years now, and every time, it’s a hit—whether I’m keepin’ it for myself or givin’ it away. Just keep that safety hat on when dealin’ with Everclear, and don’t skimp on the coolin’ step. Sip smart, share with pals, and enjoy the heck outta this seasonal gem. Got a twist or tip of your own? Drop it in the comments—I’m all ears for new ideas to try next batch!