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Watermelon Moonshine

A refreshing homemade watermelon-infused spirit made with high-proof alcohol, fresh watermelon, and simple ingredients. This smooth, fruit-forward moonshine requires no distilling and is ready in 2 to 3 weeks.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 21 1.5 oz shots
Course: Drinks and Beverages
Cuisine: American
Calories: 110
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1 quart 750 ml high-proof vodka or Everclear (190-proof Everclear or 80-proof vodka)
  • 4 cups fresh watermelon flesh cubed
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup filtered water
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract optional
  • 1 pinch salt

Equipment

  • Large glass jar or mason jar (at least 2 quarts capacity)
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Watermelon scooper or spoon
  • Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
  • Funnel
  • Glass bottles with tight-sealing lids for storage
  • Measuring cup
  • Wooden spoon for stirring

Method
 

  1. Choose a ripe watermelon with a deep color, hollow sound when tapped, and heavy weight for its size. Cut it in half, remove the red flesh into chunks, and discard seeds and rind completely.
  2. Cut your prepared watermelon into 1-inch cubes to provide the right surface area for infusion.
  3. Wash your large glass jar with hot soapy water, then rinse it thoroughly and let it air dry completely.
  4. Pour half of your high-proof alcohol into the sterilized jar, then add all your watermelon cubes. Pour the remaining alcohol over the watermelon until everything is completely submerged.
  5. Stir in your sugar, lemon juice, vanilla extract if using, and a small pinch of salt, stirring well until the sugar dissolves mostly.
  6. Seal your jar tightly with a lid and store it in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight for 14 to 21 days.
  7. Gently shake your jar once every 2 to 3 days to keep the fruit distributed and infusion even.
  8. After 14 days, carefully open the jar and taste a small sample to check the watermelon intensity. If you want stronger flavor, let it infuse for up to 21 days.
  9. Line your fine mesh strainer with cheesecloth and slowly pour the infusion through, catching the clear liquid in a bowl or measuring cup. Discard the watermelon solids.
  10. Pour the strained moonshine through a funnel into clean glass bottles, sealing tightly. Store in a cool, dark place for at least 1 week before serving to allow flavors to marry and mellow.

Notes

Store finished watermelon moonshine in the refrigerator for up to 1 year or in the freezer for 18 to 24 months. Serve ice-cold as shots, mixed into cocktails, or sipped over ice. Choose ripe, sweet watermelon for best flavor. Do not exceed 21 days infusion time to avoid fermentation.