Orange Creamsicle Moonshine made with Everclear, vanilla vodka, orange juice, sugar, and French vanilla creamer. It’s a smooth, dreamy blast from the past in every sip.
Alright, so here’s the scoop. Growing up, Orange Creamsicles were a summer staple for me. Like, I’d hear the ice cream truck’s music playing from two streets over, and it was game over—whatever I was doing got dropped, and I’d sprint to grab one of those creamy, bright orange treats. Fast forward a couple of decades, and I still get a little smile whenever I see one in the freezer aisle. But let’s be real… those popsicles don’t quite hit the same as they did back in the day.
So, I started thinking, “What if I could bottle that feeling?” A bit of an ambitious thought, maybe, but hey—when you get an idea like that, sometimes you just have to go for it. And so, Orange Creamsicle Moonshine was born. I wanted something that wasn’t just a cute cocktail but actually tasted like the original treat with an adult twist, of course. And honestly, I think I nailed it! This drink has that same dreamy creamsicle flavor but with a little kick, perfect for sharing with friends or just keeping on hand for a cozy night in. Give it a try—who knows, maybe it’ll take you back too.
Why You’ll Love This Orange Creamsicle Moonshine
- Nostalgia in a Glass: Ever had a sip of something and instantly felt like a kid again? This moonshine brings back all the memories of running after the ice cream truck, but it’s got a little extra oomph for the grown-up you.
- Quick and Easy to Whip Up: Let’s face it—most of us don’t have time for recipes with a dozen ingredients or complicated steps. This one’s as easy as it gets. Just mix, heat, cool, and let it sit. Seriously, if you’ve got 10 minutes, you can make this.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Ever thrown a party and felt like your drink options were kind of… boring? This moonshine will get people talking. It’s fun, it’s different, and it tastes fantastic. Plus, it’s always a little funny when people ask, “Wait, what kind of moonshine is this?”
- Adjustable Sweetness & Creaminess: Some like it sweeter; some prefer it lighter. This recipe’s flexible—you can easily dial up or down the sugar or creamer to suit your taste. Personally, I love it just as it is, but you do you!
Ingredient Notes
Here’s where it all starts. The ingredients are what give this drink its “wow” factor. Each one adds something special, so don’t skip anything!
- Everclear (190 proof): This stuff packs a punch, to say the least. It’s what makes this drink “moonshine” after all. If it feels a little too intense, you could swap for vodka, but keep in mind, that Everclear helps it last longer too.
Where Can You Get Everclear (and Are There Any Gotchas)?
Everclear is pretty easy to track down at most liquor stores in the U.S. It’s one of those high-proof grain alcohols that’s just there—but not everywhere. Some states (looking at you, Pennsylvania) have banned it because of the crazy high alcohol content. If that’s the case where you live, you might need to make a quick road trip to a neighboring state like Delaware or Maryland.
No Everclear? No Problem!
If you can’t find Everclear (or just prefer something a little tamer), ask the store clerks for a recommendation. There are plenty of high-proof alcohols that can work just as well. Or, stick with vodka—it’s a little more mellow but keeps the drink just as delicious.
Quick Breakdown:
- Availability: Most liquor stores carry it, but it’s worth calling ahead.
- Restrictions: Some states don’t allow Everclear due to its strength (and, well, potential for shenanigans).
- Alternatives: Vodka or any high-proof grain alcohol will do the trick.
Pro Tip: Always check your state’s rules before buying or traveling for high-proof alcohol. Better safe than sorry, right?
- Vanilla Vodka: Adds that perfect vanilla sweetness. It’s subtle but makes a huge difference in bringing out the creamy vibe we’re after.
- Pulp-Free Orange Juice: The base of the whole drink. No pulp here—you want that smooth, bright flavor that just screams “creamsicle!”
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens things up just right. You can adjust it, but I think this is the sweet spot. And don’t worry, it doesn’t make it overly sugary.
- French Vanilla Creamer: The secret ingredient for that creamy, dreamy texture. It ties the whole drink together, making it feel indulgent and smooth.
- Vanilla Extract: Just a couple of tablespoons, but it really amps up the creaminess. Trust me, this one’s a must!
How To Make This Orange Creamsicle Moonshine
Alright, let’s make some magic. It’s simple, I promise, and even if you’re not a big “DIY” kind of person, this recipe’s a breeze. Ready?
- Mix Your Base: First, grab your biggest pot and pour in the orange juice, sugar, creamer, and vanilla extract. Stir it up nice and smooth. This is your “creamsicle” base, so you want it well-mixed. Pro tip: Be patient with the sugar; let it dissolve completely so it’s not gritty.
- Heat Things Up: Turn on the heat and bring the pot to a gentle boil. Keep stirring to make sure the flavors blend well. This step pulls everything together so you get that authentic creamsicle taste. Just watch it closely—you don’t want to scorch it.
- Cool It Down: Here’s where you might have to wait a bit. Let the mixture cool completely, which takes about an hour. You don’t want to add the alcohol until it’s cooled down (we’re making moonshine here, not cooking off the booze!).
- Add the Booze: Now that it’s cooled, add in the Everclear and vanilla vodka. Give it a good stir—this is where it becomes moonshine. Stir until everything’s combined and looking smooth.
- Pour into Mason Jars: Grab a few mason jars and fill them up, leaving a bit of room at the top. This gives you space to shake it before serving, which you’ll want to do for the best texture.
- Refrigerate and Wait: Pop the jars into the fridge and let them sit for at least two weeks. I know, it’s hard to wait, but that’s where the magic happens. The longer it sits, the better it tastes.
- Shake and Serve: When you’re ready to serve, give each jar a good shake to mix everything up. Pour, sip, and get ready to be transported right back to your childhood (with a twist).
Storage Options
One of the best things about this Orange Creamsicle Moonshine? It stores like a dream. You don’t have to worry about it going bad—if you can resist drinking it all in one go.
- Refrigerator: Keep it in the fridge, and it’ll stay fresh for up to three months. Just shake it before each pours to get that creamy texture back.
- Freezer: Want it extra frosty? You can store it in the freezer too. It won’t freeze solid because of the alcohol, but it’ll stay super cold, which is perfect for summer nights (or just when you want a seriously cold drink).
Can This Moonshine Last Longer Without Refrigeration?
Alright, here’s the deal—moonshine with dairy (like that dreamy French vanilla creamer) is absolutely delicious, but it’s not the type to sit out on your shelf forever. It needs to be kept cool, and honestly, you’ll want to finish it within a month for the best flavor.
Why the Short Shelf Life?
The culprit here is the cream. Dairy can spoil, even if the rest of the ingredients are practically indestructible. Over time, even in the fridge, it starts to break down—so unless you enjoy living life on the edge, don’t let it linger too long.
Want to Stretch It a Bit Longer?
You can try a few tricks to keep your moonshine fresh for as long as possible:
- Fridge ASAP: As soon as you make it, get that jar into the fridge. Cold slows down the spoilage process and helps keep things tasting fresh.
- Boost the Alcohol: Everclear (or any high-proof alcohol) acts as a preservative. The stronger the booze, the longer it’ll keep. Consider adding a bit more to bump up the shelf life.
- Sterilize Your Jars: Think of this like canning—clean jars mean fewer chances for bacteria to sneak in and mess with your drink.
- Seal It Tight: Air is the enemy. Make sure your jars are sealed properly to avoid oxidation or any funky changes in flavor.
At the end of the day, if you’re after moonshine that can sit in the pantry for months, go for recipes without dairy. But if you’re cool with enjoying it fresh (and trust me, you’ll want to), this version is absolutely worth it.
Variations and Substitutions
The beauty of this recipe is how easy it is to customize. You can switch things up depending on what you have or what you’re craving.
Everclear Alternatives: Vodka or 100 Proof Moonshine
- Vodka: Is Everclear a bit too strong? Vodka’s a great alternative. It’s a little more mellow but keeps the drink just as delicious.
- 100 Proof Moonshine: Want to try something different? Moonshine is a fun swap that brings its own unique twist.
- Alcohol Content: Everclear typically ranges from 60%-95% alcohol, while 100-proof moonshine is around 50%. This results in a slightly lower alcohol content.
- Flavor and Taste: Moonshine’s distinct flavor can subtly alter the final taste, sometimes in delightful ways.
- Recipe Adjustments: Consider adding more moonshine or supplementing with another spirit if you want a stronger kick.
- Experimentation is Key: The unique flavor and lower alcohol content might just enhance your recipe in ways you didn’t expect!
Try Different Creamers:
Want To Save This Recipe?
While French vanilla is my go-to, hazelnut or caramel creamers can add a fun twist. Each flavor creates a slightly different but equally tasty result.
Add Fresh Orange Zest:
For an extra burst of citrus, toss in some fresh orange zest before refrigerating. This small step can amplify the orange flavor beautifully.
Adjust the Sweetness:
If you’re not into super sweet drinks, reduce the sugar by half. Prefer an ultra-decadent dessert drink? Add a touch more sugar to dial up the sweetness.
FAQs
How long does Orange Creamsicle Moonshine need to sit before it’s ready to drink?
For the best flavor, let the moonshine sit in the refrigerator for at least two weeks. This allows the ingredients to fully blend and enhances the taste.
Can I drink it sooner?
If you decide to enjoy the moonshine before the recommended waiting period, you may notice a harsher taste. Freshly made, the alcohol can be quite sharp and overpowering. During the waiting period, sugars and other ingredients blend harmoniously, creating a smoother and more balanced beverage.
Skipping this crucial time means the flavors haven’t yet had a chance to fully integrate, potentially resulting in a less enjoyable drinking experience. Instead of the rich, mellow flavor that comes from patience, you’ll encounter a drink where the strong alcohol content dominates, masking the subtler notes that are meant to enhance it.
Can I make this recipe with a non-alcoholic version?
Yes, you can substitute Everclear and vodka with water or additional orange juice for a non-alcoholic version. The flavor will be similar but without the kick!
What can I use instead of French vanilla coffee creamer?
If you don’t have French vanilla creamer, try substituting it with regular vanilla creamer or even a splash of heavy cream and vanilla extract for a similar flavor.
Can I adjust the sweetness of this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add less sugar if you prefer a less sweet drink. You can always add more sugar later if needed.
What should you do if you forget to add vanilla vodka to the recipe?
If you forget to add vanilla vodka to your recipe, don’t worry; there are simple adjustments you can make. Here’s a quick guide to help you:
- Add It Midway
If you realize your mistake while still cooking, go ahead and stir in the vanilla vodka as soon as possible. This will allow the flavors to meld with the other ingredients. Just be sure to simmer a bit longer to cook off any excess alcohol if the dish requires it. - Use a Substitute
Can’t add it in now? Replace vanilla vodka with an equivalent amount of vanilla extract and a splash of regular vodka or any other neutral spirit. This combination will help maintain the intended flavor profile. - Consider Other Flavor Enhancements
If vodka isn’t available, try enhancing the dish with other vanilla-flavored liquids or syrups. Vanilla bean paste or powder can work in a pinch, although they may slightly alter the texture. - Taste and Adjust
After adding your vanilla substitute, taste the dish. You may need to adjust other seasonings or flavors to balance everything perfectly. - Avoid Overcompensating
Be cautious not to overdo replacements; adding too much vanilla extract or syrup can overpower other flavors in the dish.
By following these steps, you can seamlessly correct your recipe and ensure a delicious outcome, even without the vanilla vodka.
Is It Necessary to Seal the Mason Jars in Boiling Water?
Good question! For most homemade preserves and moonshine recipes, sealing mason jars in boiling water is a classic go-to for keeping things safe and shelf-stable. It’s not just about tradition—there’s a real reason behind it.
Why Bother Sealing?
- Safety First: Sealing jars properly keeps out unwanted bacteria, so you’re not accidentally brewing up anything sketchy.
- Longer Shelf Life: A solid vacuum seal can keep your moonshine or preserves tasting fresh for months.
- Flavor Lock-In: Sealing helps keep all those delicious flavors from fading over time.
How to Do It Right:
- Fill the Jars: Leave a little breathing room at the top (about an inch).
- Wipe the Rims: Make sure the rim is clean—any residue can mess with the seal.
- Lids On: Pop the lids on and screw the bands down, but don’t overdo it. You want them snug, not Hulk-tight.
- Boil Away: Submerge the jars fully in boiling water for about 10-15 minutes.
- Cool It: Let the jars cool in the water before transferring to the counter. You should hear that satisfying “pop” sound as they seal.
Do You Have to Boil for Moonshine?
Here’s the thing—when you’re working with high-proof alcohol like Everclear, the risk of bacteria is super low. That stuff could probably preserve a shoe if needed. But if you’re planning to store your moonshine long-term or want to play it safe, boiling is never a bad idea.
At the end of the day, it’s up to you. For quick-use batches, you can skip the boiling. But for anything you plan to stash away for a rainy day (or holiday party), I’d recommend sealing them up just to be sure
So, what do you think? This Orange Creamsicle Moonshine is seriously fun to make, and even more fun to share. Try it out, and let me know if it brings back memories for you too. Cheers to creating a bit of summer magic in a mason jar!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Keep the Flavor Coming – Try These:
Orange Creamsicle Moonshine
Ingredients
- 3 cups Everclear 190 proof
- ½ cup Vanilla Vodka
- 1 gallon pulp-free orange juice
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup French vanilla coffee creamer
- 2 tbsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the orange juice, granulated sugar, French vanilla coffee creamer, and vanilla extract. Stir until the sugar begins to dissolve and the creamer is fully incorporated.
- Place the pot on the stove over medium heat. Stir continuously and allow the mixture to reach a gentle boil, ensuring all ingredients blend smoothly.
- Once boiled, remove the pot from the heat. Allow the mixture to cool completely to room temperature, which should take about one hour. Cooling is essential to retain the alcohol’s potency when it’s added in the next step.
- Once the orange mixture has cooled, pour in the Everclear and vanilla vodka. Stir thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the alcohol.
- Carefully pour the moonshine into clean mason jars, leaving a small amount of space at the top to allow for shaking before serving. Seal the jars tightly with lids.
- Place the sealed jars in the refrigerator and let them sit for a minimum of two weeks to allow the flavors to meld. For optimal flavor, avoid opening during this period.
- When ready to serve, shake the jars well to remix any separated ingredients. Pour into glasses and enjoy responsibly.
Notes
Nutrition
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
