Instant Pot Cherry Pie Moonshine
This post includes a recipe for alcohol. Drink responsibly. Sparkles to Sprinkles and it’s authors are not responsible for the actions of our readers should they choose to make this recipe and consume it. Please drink responsibly.
Looking for a homemade gift that’s unique, delicious, and sure to impress? This Instant Pot Cherry Pie Moonshine recipe is perfect for the holiday season, special occasions, or just a cozy treat for yourself. Combining rich cherry flavors with the warmth of Everclear, this easy-to-make moonshine is a fun DIY project and a sweet way to spread joy. Plus, it’s all made in your trusty Instant Pot, saving you time and effort.
Instant Pot Cherry Pie Moonshine
The secret to this recipe lies in its simplicity and bold flavor. By using tart cherry juice and dark cherries in syrup, you get that perfect sweet and tangy balance reminiscent of a classic cherry pie. Add in a bit of sugar and grain alcohol, and you’ve got a drink that’s as festive as it is flavorful. Whether you’re gifting it in mason jars tied with festive ribbons or keeping it for your own celebrations, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit.
So, grab your Instant Pot, gather your ingredients, and let’s whip up some cherry moonshine magic! Whether you’re a seasoned home brewer or new to crafting flavored spirits, this step-by-step guide will have you sipping (or gifting) in no time.
What You Will Love About This Recipe
- Incredible Flavor: With the perfect blend of tart cherry juice, sweet cherries in syrup, and a hint of warmth from Everclear, this moonshine captures the essence of a homemade cherry pie in a bottle. It’s indulgent, fruity, and just the right amount of boozy!
- Simple to Make: This recipe is beginner-friendly, thanks to the Instant Pot. It takes out the guesswork and speeds up the process, so you can go from mixing ingredients to enjoying your moonshine in no time.
- Versatile Gift Idea: Packaged in mason jars with a festive ribbon, this moonshine makes for a thoughtful, homemade gift. It’s perfect for holidays, housewarming parties, or any occasion where you want to share something special.
- Budget-Friendly: With just a handful of ingredients, you can make a large batch without breaking the bank. It’s a fantastic way to whip up an impressive treat while staying within your budget.
- Unique and Fun: Whether you’re surprising guests at a holiday party or enjoying a cozy evening at home, this cherry pie moonshine stands out as a crowd-pleaser. It’s not something you’ll find on store shelves, making it all the more special!
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Cherry Pie Moonshine
- Cool It Down Completely: One of the most critical steps in this recipe is letting the mixture cool to room temperature before adding the Everclear. Everclear is highly flammable, so it’s essential to avoid exposing it to heat for safety reasons. Never add Everclear while the mixture is still warm or while your Instant Pot is on.
- Use Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, choose 100% tart cherry juice and high-quality dark cherries in heavy syrup. These ingredients pack a punch of cherry goodness that makes your moonshine irresistible.
- Mason Jar Magic: If you’re gifting your moonshine, mason jars are a great way to package it. They seal tightly to preserve freshness and look adorable when tied with a decorative ribbon or label.
- Store Safely: Keep your finished moonshine in a cool, dark place to maintain its flavor and quality. If you’re gifting it, let recipients know they should refrigerate it once opened.
- Taste and Adjust: Prefer it sweeter? You can add more sugar while the mixture is still heating. Just stir until dissolved and taste to get the balance that suits your preference.
- Make it a Mocktail Base: If you’d like a non-alcoholic version for some family-friendly fun, skip the Everclear altogether. The cherry mixture can double as a rich and flavorful mocktail base—just mix it with soda water or lemonade!
FAQs for Instant Pot Cherry Pie Moonshine
1. Can I use a different type of alcohol instead of Everclear?
Yes, you can substitute Everclear with another high-proof alcohol, such as vodka or grain alcohol. However, keep in mind that the flavor and strength of the moonshine may vary depending on the alcohol you choose.
2. How long does this cherry pie moonshine last?
When stored in a cool, dark place in a tightly sealed container, the moonshine can last up to a year. Once opened, it’s best to refrigerate and consume within a month for optimal flavor.
3. Can I make this moonshine without an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! You can simmer the cherry juice, cherries, and sugar on the stovetop over medium heat until the sugar is fully dissolved. Then, allow the mixture to cool completely before adding the Everclear.
4. Is this moonshine safe to drink?
Yes, as long as you follow the recipe instructions carefully. Always ensure the mixture is completely cooled before adding Everclear, and drink responsibly since this is a strong, high-proof beverage.
5. Can I adjust the sweetness?
Of course! If you prefer your moonshine less sweet, reduce the amount of sugar. If you like it sweeter, add a little more sugar while heating the mixture. Taste as you go to find your perfect balance.
6. What’s the best way to serve this moonshine?
You can enjoy it straight as a sipping drink, mix it into cocktails, or serve it over ice with a splash of soda or lemonade. It’s versatile and delicious!
Try some other moonshines!
Instant Pot Cherry Pie Moonshine
4 Simple ingredients are all you need for this outstanding Instant Pot Cherry Pie Moonshine. Move over apple pie moonshine, there is a new deputy in town! Sweet, easy to make and the perfect Valentine’s Day or summer inspired moonshine to serve your guests.
Ingredients
- 1 32 oz jars of Just Tart Cherry Juice
- 2 15 oz cans dark cherries in heavy syrup, undrained
- ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 Cups Everclear, Grain alcohol
Instructions
- Combine the Cherry Juice & Cherries
- Add in the sugar.
- Turn on Saute feature to start warming the mixture.
- Once sugars are all dissolved, cover the pot and turn to sealing.
- Set your pot to manual high pressure for 45 minutes. Do a natural release
- Let mixture cool completely (DO NOT PROCEED WITH ANY STEPS UNTIL MIXTURE IS ROOM TEMPERATURE TO COOL)
- Add in Everclear.
- Fill a mason jar.
- Close the lid tightly
- Put pretty ribbon on and give the gift of love this year.
Notes
*you should have enough for aprx. 5-6 Mason jars
This post includes a recipe for alcohol. Drink responsibly. Sparkles to Sprinkles and it's authors are not responsible for the actions of our readers should they choose to make this recipe and consume it. Please drink responsibly.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
48Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 51Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 13mgCarbohydrates: 9gFiber: 0gSugar: 7gProtein: 0g
I’m Melissa, the imaginative force behind Sparkles to Sprinkles, where creativity comes to life, and sprinkles of joy are scattered generously. Melissa is a proud Jersey girl who found love with a New York boy. As a mom to four wonderful boys and a few fur babies, her journey into the world of blogging began after making the life-changing decision to stay home and raise her children. Previously a dedicated workaholic, Melissa’s blog became her creative outlet and passion project. Inspired by her mother-in-law, a masterful cook renowned for her delicious home-cooked meals and legendary holiday feasts (think mouthwatering sausage stuffing), Melissa honed her culinary skills through a combination of family recipes and countless cooking classes. She often attended these classes with her son Michael, who shared her enthusiasm for cooking from a young age. Melissa’s love for learning extends beyond familiar cuisines, as she enjoys exploring international recipes in hands-on cooking classes. Her blog features a diverse array of recipes, showcasing her expertise with various kitchen appliances such as the Instant Pot, air fryer, Slow Cooker, Ninja Foodi, Instant Vortex Plus, and more. Join Melissa on her culinary adventures as she shares tried-and-true family favorites alongside exciting new discoveries!
It is shelf ready, no refrigeration needed then when done. Is there an expiration date, or use by ?
Looks good. Have you posted any other ‘flavors” ?
Thank you.
Since you probably will not get a tight enough seal on your mason jar, you should refrigerate this. I have an apple pie moonshine also and peach is coming up in just a few days. 🙂
Did you ever post the peach moonshine recipe? I can’t find a search feature on this site.
yes I sure did, here it is 🙂 https://www.sparklestosprinkles.com/instant-pot-peach-pie-moonshine/
Can Vodka be used instead of the Everclear?
Generally, no. Grain alchohol needs to be used because your adding it to a base which cuts the alcohol content. If you used a low alcohol content like Vodka, it will be far too watered down after mixing. It should also be 190 proof grain, if available in your area.
This looks amazing! I had no idea you could use an instant pot for that. Thanks for being a part of Merry Monday!
I just got an Instant Pot and I’m still surprised about all you can make with this machine. Thanks for sharing with us at #HomeMattersParty
How long do I wait for the natural release? New to using the instant pot.
safely wait 15 minutes for a natural release to finish. 🙂
Do you have a strawberry moonshine recipe?
Not yet, but on of my future new flavors will be a strawberry rhubarb 🙂
Can you find a blackberry instant pot moonshine? I’ve looked and looked but can’t find one.
Let me add that to my list of new moonshines to work on
Ooh, adding this to my list and I think I’m gonna add almond extract to a few jars as well because almond and cherry is amazing together!
Making this now!! So excited to try. Do the jars have to sit in the fridge for a certain amount of hours/days before we can try/drink it?
You can drink it right away
Do you have this recipe without an instant pot? Would boiling for 45 minutes have a similar effect?
Yes that would work fine