If you like to give homemade gifts for the holidays, we've got the perfect project for you with this moonshine recipe. Peppermint moonshine is a delightfully pretty drink and it's so easy to make. If you need a last-minute hostess gift, (hello hot cocoa!) you can DIY a batch of this peppermint candy cane moonshine fairly quickly, let it chill while you get ready for the party, and then all you have to do is tie a shiny ribbon around the jar.
Take peppermint candy canes (use a package with 12 candy canes) and crush them up. You can use a food processor or blender, or if you need a little bit of stress relief, put the candy canes in a closed bag and use a rolling pan to smash or crush them. Bring 3.5 cups water to boil in a large heavy-bottomed saucepan or dutch oven, then add 2.5 cups sugar, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Repeat with the crushed candy canes, making sure the candy is completely dissolved.
We like using Ole Smoky Moonshine or Sugarlands Shine as the base of this recipe.
Let the simple syrup mixture chill for about an hour, then divide it into six pint-sized mason jars. Add the moonshine (or Everclear, in a pinch) to each jar. It's best if you let it sit for a day or two before drinking, but like other infused moonshines, peppermint moonshine gets better the longer you let it sit! If you're not giving the moonshine away as a holiday gift, try using it in place of peppermint schnapps or other minty liqueurs in cocktail recipes for your holiday party, or simply add it to your hot chocolate or favorite coffee drink. This alcoholic beverage is a great mixer in a variety of cocktails.
To go along with this candy cane moonshine recipe, check out our other easy recipes and drink recipes perfect for the holiday season, including apple pie moonshine and cranberry moonshine.
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