Moonshine cherries are cherries that have been soaked in moonshine, giving them a boozy kick. But just how strong are they? Let’s take a closer look.
What is moonshine?
Moonshine is an illegally produced distilled spirit, often made from corn. It earned the “moonshine” moniker because it was often produced at night in secret to avoid detection from authorities. Real moonshine typically has an alcohol content of 50-75% ABV (alcohol by volume). This makes it significantly stronger than commercial spirits like whiskey, rum, or vodka, which are usually 40% ABV.
How are moonshine cherries made?
To make moonshine cherries, you first start with fresh cherries. The pits are removed and the cherries are washed. Then, they are placed in a mason jar or other sealable container and covered with moonshine. The cherries then sit for 2-6 weeks to soak up the boozy flavors. The end result is cherries infused with the strong bite of moonshine.
How strong is the moonshine used?
This can vary, but most recipes call for using a high proof moonshine in the 75-100% ABV range. So we’re talking about a very potent spirit! The strength ensures maximum flavor extraction and that boozy kick. Using lower proof moonshine runs the risk of the cherries not getting enough moonshine flavor.
How much alcohol is absorbed?
It’s difficult to pinpoint exactly, but the cherries will absorb a significant amount of alcohol from the prolonged soak. One batch using 1 pint of 100 proof (50% ABV) moonshine to 4 cups of cherries will produce cherries with an estimated alcohol content of 20-25% ABV. However, the absorption rate can vary based on cherry size, moonshine proof, and length of soaking time.
How does the alcohol % compare to other boozy foods?
| Boozy food | Approx. alcohol content |
|---|---|
| Moonshine cherries | 20-25% ABV |
| Rum balls | 15-20% ABV |
| Brandied fruit | 15-30% ABV |
| Boozy cakes/cupcakes | 5-15% ABV |
| Tiramisu | 5-10% ABV |
As you can see, moonshine cherries are at the higher end for alcohol content. The extended soak time in high proof moonshine allows them to extract more alcohol than items like boozy cakes or tiramisu. They can come close to the ABV levels of some liquors and spirits.
How does eating moonshine cherries compare to drinking moonshine directly?
Naturally, taking a shot of high proof moonshine will deliver alcohol into your system much quicker than eating moonshine cherries. However, since the cherries can absorb 20% ABV or more, eating a serving of 5-6 cherries would be roughly equivalent to taking a 1 oz shot of 40% ABV liquor. So while the absorption rate is slower, the total alcohol consumed could be fairly similar if you snack on enough cherries!
How many cherries would it take to become intoxicated?
It’s hard to provide exact numbers, as alcohol tolerance varies greatly by individual. However, for a 130 lb woman with average tolerance, consuming 15-20 cherries in one sitting could potentially cause intoxication. For a 180 lb man, around 20-30 cherries may be enough to feel impaired effects. Consuming a whole jar of marinated cherries could potentially be dangerous for some people.
What are signs of alcohol overconsumption from moonshine cherries?
Eating too many boozy cherries can cause the same signs of alcohol intoxication as drinking too much liquor or wine. These include:
- Impaired coordination
- Delayed reaction times
- Impaired judgement
- Slurred speech
- Dizziness
- Nausea
In severe cases it can also cause blackouts or even alcohol poisoning. It’s important to enjoy moonshine cherries in moderation and be aware of your limits.
Can children safely eat moonshine cherries?
No, children should never consume moonshine cherries or any food containing high levels of alcohol. Childhood poisoning deaths have occurred from accidental ingestion of booze-infused foods. The CDC warns that alcohol has damaging effects on developing brains and children should avoid any product with alcohol.
Tips for keeping kids safe
- Keep moonshine cherries out of reach in locked cabinets
- Don’t refer to them as “cherries” in front of children
- Monitor serving sizes carefully around family gatherings
- Be extra cautious around holidays like Christmas
Are there any health benefits to moonshine cherries?
There are no proven health benefits to consuming moonshine cherries specifically. However, cherries on their own are considered a healthy fruit, providing:
- Vitamin C
- Fiber
- Antioxidants like anthocyanins
- Melatonin
- Anti-inflammatory compounds
Additionally, some studies show the antioxidants in tart cherries may help reduce muscle soreness and speed recovery after exercise. But any potential benefits from the cherry ingredients would be negated by the high alcohol content.
Do moonshine cherries expire or go bad?
Like any food high in sugar and alcohol, moonshine cherries can eventually mold or ferment further if left at room temperature too long. Refrigeration will prolong their shelf life. Properly stored in the fridge, they can potentially last up to 1 year. But for best quality and food safety, aim to consume any homemade batch within 2-3 months.
Should moonshine cherries be refrigerated?
Yes, moonshine cherries should always be stored in the refrigerator to maximize freshness and prevent harmful bacteria growth. The high sugar content makes them prone to quick spoilage. Refrigeration at 40°F or below reduces risk of mold and slows fermentation. The cherries can be left at room temp for a couple hours for serving, but should not be left unrefrigerated for longer durations.
Storage tips
- Keep cherries submerged in liquid while refrigerated
- Use airtight containers like mason jars
- Never store at room temperature for more than 2-3 hours
- Refrigerate any leftovers immediately
How long do moonshine cherries keep their potency?
Over time, the alcohol in moonshine cherries will slowly evaporate. Kept refrigerated, the cherries can retain most of their boozy kick for at least 2-3 months. After 6 months or more, you may notice some decline in the intensity of the moonshine flavor. For maximum potency, moonshine cherries are best consumed within 3 months of preparation.
Do you eat the pits of moonshine cherries?
No, you should not eat the pits of moonshine cherries as they can be a choking hazard. The pits also contain a compound called amygdalin which can release cyanide when digested, although the amounts in cherry pits are generally not high enough to be dangerous. However, it’s better to be safe and remove all pits before making or eating moonshine cherries.
How to safely pit cherries
- Use a cherry pitter tool for easy removal
- Cut the cherries in half and dig out the pit with a knife tip
- Use a drinking straw to push the pit out from the bottom
Do moonshine cherries need to be canned for storage?
No, canning is not necessary for preserved storage of moonshine cherries. The combination of sugar, alcohol, and refrigeration is enough to prevent growth of dangerous bacteria and molds. Canning could affect the texture and boozy flavor. Mason jars or other airtight containers are ideal storage vessels. As long as kept cold in the fridge, the cherries do not require specialized canning.
Cons of canning moonshine cherries
- High heat can evaporate alcohol
- Can soften cherry texture
- Risks lid not sealing properly
- Specialized equipment required
Can you freeze moonshine cherries?
Yes, moonshine cherries can be frozen for longer term storage. Freezing stops the cherries from continuing to ferment or absorb additional alcohol. It also allows enjoyment of the moonshine cherries over the span of a year or more. There are just a few precautions:
- Use air-tight freezer bags or containers
- Freeze cherries completely submerged in liquid
- Thaw in fridge before serving for safety
Properly frozen, the cherries will retain their texture and boozy flavor for up to 12 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before eating.
How long do thawed, frozen moonshine cherries last?
After thawing, moonshine cherries should be eaten within 5-7 days and kept refrigerated. Do not refreeze previously frozen cherries. Eat within a week for best flavor, texture, and food safety. Discard any leftovers not consumed within 7 days after thawing.
Can you use an instant pot to make moonshine cherries?
It’s not recommended. While an Instant Pot or other electric pressure cooker can expedite infusion of flavors into foods, they aren’t well suited for making moonshine cherries:
- The alcohol can evaporate at high heat
- Cherries may over-soften from pressure
- You lose the ability to monitor infusion time
Traditional cold-infusion methods work best to preserve alcohol content and achieve ideal texture. Patience makes for better moonshine cherries than rushing the process.
What are some serving ideas for moonshine cherries?
Moonshine cherries lend themselves to many fun and creative uses:
- Topping for cheesecake or ice cream
- Add to milkshakes or smoothies
- Skewer on picks for cocktails
- Blend into cherry pie filling
- Bake into boozy desserts like brownies
- Garnish for drinks like Manhattans
Let your imagination run wild! Just be sure to account for the extra alcohol in recipes.
Are moonshine cherries legal to make and sell?
The legality of moonshine cherries depends on regulations where you live:
- In the U.S., it’s federally illegal to distill spirits without a license, so true “moonshine” is not legal to begin with.
- Preserving fruit in alcohol may violate some state laws as well.
- Selling homepage cherries requires adhering to food safety codes.
There are some exemptions for small batches used privately or given as gifts. But in general, exercise caution and check your local and state laws before gifting or selling moonshine cherry products.
Conclusion
Moonshine cherries deliver a concentrated boozy punch thanks to their high alcohol absorption from the lengthy infusion process. While they may seem harmless, enjoy them moderately. Consuming too many in one sitting can lead to dangerous intoxication due to the deceptively high 20-25% ABV alcohol content. Respect their potency, monitor your intake, and never allow children access to prevent any safety issues. Made and enjoyed responsibly, moonshine cherries allow for creative recipes and boozy fun.
