Orange Creamsicle Moonshine: A Zesty Twist on a Classic Spirit

Instructions:

1. Preparing the Base:

1. Combine Milk and Sugar: In a large saucepan, combine the whole milk and granulated sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is completely dissolved. This will create a sweet, creamy base for your moonshine.
2. Add Vanilla Extract: Once the sugar is dissolved, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the pure vanilla extract. This will give your moonshine a rich, creamy flavor reminiscent of an orange creamsicle.

2. Adding the Citrus Flavor:

1. Add Orange Juice: Allow the milk mixture to cool slightly before adding the orange juice. Slowly pour in the orange juice, stirring continuously to ensure it is well incorporated. The acidity of the orange juice may cause the milk to curdle slightly, but this is normal and will not affect the final product.
2. Add Orange Zest: Grate the zest of two oranges and add it to the mixture. The zest will add a vibrant, zesty flavor and enhance the overall citrus profile of your moonshine.

3. Incorporating the Alcohol:

1. Add Everclear: Once the mixture is well combined and has cooled to room temperature, slowly add the Everclear or high-proof grain alcohol. Stir continuously to ensure the alcohol is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
2. Optional Coloring: If you want your moonshine to have a bright, vibrant orange color, you can add a few drops of orange food coloring at this stage. Stir until the color is evenly distributed.

4. Bottling and Aging:

1. Strain the Mixture: Pour the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove any solids or curdled bits. This will ensure a smooth, creamy texture for your moonshine.
2. Bottle the Moonshine: Transfer the strained mixture into clean, sterilized glass bottles or jars. Seal them tightly with lids.
3. Age the Moonshine: Store the bottles in a cool, dark place for at least two weeks to allow the flavors to meld and mature. The longer the moonshine ages, the more the flavors will develop.

5. Serving Suggestions:

1. Chill Before Serving: For the best flavor, chill the moonshine in the refrigerator before serving. This will enhance the creamy, refreshing taste.
2. Serve Over Ice: Pour the moonshine over ice cubes in a glass for a refreshing, cool drink.
3. Garnish: Add a slice of fresh orange or a twist of orange peel as a garnish for an extra touch of citrus flair.
4. Cocktail Ideas: Use the Orange Creamsicle Moonshine as a base for cocktails. Mix it with soda water, lemonade, or a splash of cream for a delicious and unique drink.

Tips and Variations:

• Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter moonshine, you can add more sugar to taste. Conversely, reduce the sugar if you prefer a less sweet version.
• Flavor Variations: Experiment with different citrus fruits like lemon or lime for a different twist on the classic creamsicle flavor.
• Alcohol Content: Adjust the amount of Everclear or high-proof alcohol to suit your taste preference and desired strength.

Conclusion:

Orange Creamsicle Moonshine is a delightful and innovative twist on traditional moonshine, offering a sweet, creamy, and citrusy flavor profile that is both nostalgic and refreshing. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create this unique spirit at home and enjoy its zesty, creamy goodness. Whether sipped on its own, served over ice, or used in cocktails, this moonshine is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Cheers to a delicious and zesty homemade treat!