Apple Pie Cocktail

This tasty drink has a comforting quality to it – it’s like an apple pie dessert in liquid form! While many different interpretations of the Apple Pie Cocktail recipe exist online, this basic recipe has been in the Hare family for years, and you can often find a bottle of the stuff making the rounds at our campfire gatherings in northern Minnesota. We love it so much that we’ve shared it with all of our friends and family, even if it means mixing up double batches outside on our gas grill.

Ingredients:
1 gallon 100% apple juice
1 gallon 100% apple cider
4 cups granulated sugar
7 large cinnamon sticks (or 14 short sticks)
1 liter Everclear grain alcohol (151 or 190 proof)

Instructions:
1. Combine first four ingredients in a large stock pot, or divide evenly between two smaller stock pots. Reserve the gallon jugs – they make great containers for storing the finished apple pie drink. 

2. Slowly bring mixture to a boil over medium heat (you can use a stovetop or a preheated gas grill), stirring constantly to dissolve sugar. Once sugar is dissolved, stir occasionally to prevent scalding.

3. Once cinnamon sticks have imparted their flavor (sticks should be slightly unfurled and darker in color), remove the mixture from the heat and allow it to cool to room temperature.

4. Pour half of the Everclear into each of the empty gallon jugs, then pour the cooled juice/cider mix in, filling each jug almost to the top. Cap the jugs and shake well. At this time, you may transfer the mixture to a more decorative bottle, if desired.

5. For best results, serve Apple Pie Cocktail chilled in the summer or piping hot on a chilly winter day. For real decadence, garnish with whipped cream, ground cinnamon, and a cinnamon stick. Refrigerate the mixture for up to 1 year.

Note: Everclear may be difficult to find in some states where sale has been prohibited. Some states allow sale of the 151-proof version only. If Everclear cannot be found, try substituting a rum or vodka of your choice.