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Chilled homemade apple brandy served over ice with fresh apple slices in a glass, surrounded by whole apples and raisins.
Stephanie

Homemade Apple Brandy Recipe

This Old Fashioned Apple Brandy Recipe is a timeless way to preserve the rich flavor of fresh apples and warm spices. Made by infusing sliced apples, cinnamon sticks, and a touch of brown sugar or honey into high-proof brandy, this simple recipe delivers a smooth, aromatic spirit perfect for sipping or mixing into your favorite fall cocktails.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 10–12 medium fresh apples a mix of sweet and tart variety of apples like Honeycrisp, Gala works best
  • 1 cup raisins
  • 8 teaspoons brown sugar or raw honey to taste
  • 3 quarts (12 cups or enough to cover the apples) good-quality brandy (80–100 proof)

Method
 

  1. Wash and core the apples. Slice into wedges or thick slices (no need to peel).
  2. Fill a clean 1-gallon glass jar about ¼ full with the apple slices.
  3. Add ¼ cup of the raisins.
  4. Sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of brown sugar or honey.
  5. Repeat the layering process—apples, raisins, and sweetener—three more times, until the jar is about ¾ full with alternating layers of apples, sugar, and raisins.
  6. Pour in the brandy until the apples are completely covered.
  7. Seal the jar tightly and give it a gentle shake to dissolve the sugar.
  8. Store in a cool, dark place for at least 6 months for a deep flavor.
  9. Strain the infused brandy through cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer and pour into clean bottles.
  10. Label and store in a dark cabinet or pantry.

Notes

    • This recipe can be cut in half, or even quarters if you'd rather use a smaller mason jar. I prefer making the large amount in the summer, so I can divide it up in pretty bottles by the holidays and give them out as gifts!
    • Delicious served over ice, in cocktails, or added to fall baking.
    • Choosing the right type of apples is key when making homemade apple brandy, as it greatly influences the flavor of the final product. Varieties like Honeycrisp, Jonathan, or Pink Lady offer a balanced sweetness and tartness that's perfect for infusing. Red Delicious would work too but I would refrain from using Granny Smith, as it lacks the natural sweetness that brings this recipe to the next level. However, if you do use Granny Smith, then I would consider adding more sugar to the recipe. 
    • Add a cinnamon stick during the steeping process to enhance the warm, spiced notes in the finished brandy. 
    • One of our favorite drinks to make with it is a cozy hot toddy—just add hot water, lemon, and a splash of your homemade apple brandy. The result is a comforting, aromatic drink with a satisfyingly long finish that lingers with hints of apple and spice.