Go Back
Hot Apple Pie Schnapps Recipe

Hot Apple Pie Schnapps Recipe - Easy Comfort Food Recipes

There's something about fall that beckons you into the kitchen. Maybe it’s the crisp air or the rustling leaves, but all these factors combine to ignite a desire for comfort food and warm drinks. One of my favorite concoctions is hot apple pie schnapps. 
It’s more than just a drink; it's a celebration of flavors that warms the soul. I remember the first time I tried it—it was on a chilly evening, the kind that makes you want to snuggle up with a good book or share laughs with friends. It tasted like autumn wrapped in a glass.
So, what is this delightful drink? Let’s dive into the world of hot apple pie schnapps, explore its flavors, and learn how to make it at home.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 20
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American
Calories: 147
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 gallon apple cider
  • 1 gallon unfiltered apple juice or refrigerated apple juice
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice or opt for 1 tablespoon lemon zest for a more intense flavor
  • 1 liter Everclear grain alcohol increase to up to 1/2 liter more for a stronger kick, keeping in mind that Everclear is 15
  • 4 to 6 cinnamon sticks or substitute with 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon if cinnamon sticks are unavailable
  • 2 tablespoons mulling spice blend or use pie spices like 3 cardamom pods and 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon allspice
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Method
 

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
  1. Before you start cooking, gather all your ingredients. This step will save you time and keep things organized. Trust me, nothing’s worse than realizing halfway through that you’re missing something.
Step 2: Combine Apple Cider and Juice
  1. In a large stockpot, pour in the gallon of apple cider and a gallon of unfiltered apple juice. This base will create a deliciously rich apple flavor. Stir until well-mixed. The aroma will start to hit you, and it gets even better from here.
Step 3: Add the Sweeteners
  1. Next, add the packed light brown sugar and granulated sugar. This will offer the sweetness needed to balance the tartness of the apples. Stir the mixture well to ensure the sugars dissolve completely. It’s at this moment you might find yourself sneaking a little sip—just a tiny one!
Step 4: Incorporate Spices
  1. Now, it’s time for the spices! Toss in the cinnamon sticks, ground cinnamon, mulling spice blend, allspice, and the vanilla extract. These aromatic spices deepen the flavor and offer a wonderful warming effect. Stir it up, and don’t be surprised if you start to feel nostalgic.
Step 5: Simmer the Mixture
  1. Place the pot over medium heat and bring it to a gentle simmer. You want to hear the soft bubbling, not a furious boil. Let it simmer for about 20 to 30 minutes. Stir occasionally and enjoy the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen.
Step 6: Add Lemon Juice
  1. Once your mixture has simmered nicely and the spices have infused, add in the fresh lemon juice. This adds a lovely zing that brightens up the flavors. Stir well, then let it simmer for an additional five minutes.
Step 7: Add the Alcohol
  1. Remove the pot from the heat. Now, carefully stir in the Everclear grain alcohol. Be gentle; this alcohol packs quite the punch! Mix it in and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Step 8: Serve Warm
  1. Once everything is combined well, it’s ready to serve! Ladle the hot apple pie schnapps into mugs and garnish with a cinnamon stick or a slice of apple, if you like. Enjoy it while it’s warm, and watch everyone’s faces light up as they experience the enchanting flavors.

Notes

  • Serve It Responsibly: Remember, Everclear is potent. Make sure your guests know its strength.
  • Garnish Ideas: Consider adding a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra sweetness.
  • Make it a Mocktail: For a non-alcoholic version, skip the Everclear and use extra apple juice or cider.
  • Spice Variations: Experiment with different spices, like ginger or cloves, to create your unique twist.
  • Chill It Out: After making, if you have leftovers, let it cool and refrigerate. Heat it back up when you want more!