Ole Smoky Pickle Moonshine Recipe: Make This Tangy & Boozy Delight at Home!

Craving something bold, tangy, and refreshingly unique? My Ole Smoky Pickle Moonshine Recipe is the ultimate cocktail for anyone who loves a balance of zesty pickle brine, citrus brightness, and sparkling fizz. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, looking for a quirky party drink, or want to surprise your taste buds, this moonshine cocktail hits all the right notes. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a one-of-a-kind drink that’s equal parts refreshing and adventurous.

Preparation & Mixing Instructions

Making this cocktail is as fun as it is easy. Follow my step-by-step guide, and you’ll have a crisp, tangy drink in your hands in just minutes.

Step 1: Chill Your Glass

Start by filling your glass with ice. This keeps your moonshine cocktail refreshingly cold and crisp from the very first sip.

Step 2: Add the Pickle Moonshine

Pour 1.5 oz Ole Smoky Pickle Moonshine directly over the ice. This is the heart of the recipe, bringing that bold, briny, pickle kick to your drink.

Step 3: Brighten with Lemon Juice

Next, squeeze in 2 oz of fresh lemon juice. I always recommend fresh-squeezed lemons because they add a clean, tangy brightness that bottled juice can’t match.

Step 4: Top with Bubbles

Now, pour in 3 oz of club soda. The fizz cuts through the tanginess, creating a refreshing balance that makes this drink exceptionally addictive.

Step 5: Stir It Up

Use a bar spoon (or any spoon you have handy) to stir all the ingredients together until well mixed gently.

Step 6: Garnish with a Pickle

To finish, place a slice of Ole Smoky Moonshine Pickle right on the rim of your glass. Not only does it look amazing, but it also doubles as a tangy, crunchy snack while you sip.

And just like that, you’ve got yourself a refreshing Ole Smoky Pickle Moonshine Cocktail that’s as bold as it is fun.

Serving, Variations & Pairings

The beauty of the Ole Smoky Pickle Moonshine Cocktail lies in its versatility. Whether you’re sipping solo or serving a crowd, this drink always makes a statement. Here are my favourite ways to serve and switch it up:

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Highball: Serve it in a tall glass over plenty of ice for a light, fizzy refreshment.
  
• Party-Ready Pitcher: Multiply the recipe by 6–8 and mix in a large pitcher for backyard BBQs or tailgates.
  
• Pickle Snack Pairing: Always garnish with an Ole Smoky Moonshine Pickle spear—it’s the perfect crunchy accompaniment to each sip.
  

Fun Variations

1. Pickle Martini Twist: Mix Ole Smoky Pickle Moonshine with dry vermouth and serve in a chilled martini glass. It’s like a Dirty Martini’s wild cousin.
   
2. Moonshine Mule: Replace club soda with ginger beer and squeeze in some lime juice for a spicy, tangy Pickle Moscow Mule.
   
3. Pickle Lemonade Cooler: Combine Ole Smoky Pickle Moonshine with lemonade and a splash of soda for a sweet and tart summer refresher.
   
4. Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or muddle a jalapeño slice before shaking for a bold, fiery edge.
   

Food Pairings

This cocktail shines brightest when paired with salty, smoky, or grilled foods. Try pairing it with:

• BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders – The tang cuts through rich, flavorful tastes.
  
• Fried Pickles or Onion Rings – Double down on the briny crunch.
  
• Buffalo Wings – The pickle acidity balances the heat beautifully.
  
• Charcuterie Boards – Pickles, cheeses, and cured meats are a natural match.
  

With these serving ideas, variations, and food pairings, your Ole Smoky Pickle Moonshine Cocktail becomes more than just a drink; it’s a whole experience.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best things about this cocktail is its simplicity, but if you’re planning for a party, here’s how to stay prepared:

• Pre-Mix Base: You can combine the Ole Smoky Pickle Moonshine and lemon juice in a sealed jar up to 24 hours in advance. Just add club soda and ice when serving to keep the fizz fresh.
  
• Chill Everything: Store your moonshine, lemons, and soda in the fridge before mixing. A colder base means a more refreshing drink.
  
• Garnish Ahead: Slice your pickles ahead of time and keep them chilled until you’re ready to serve.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is Ole Smoky Pickle Moonshine?

Ole Smoky Pickle Moonshine is a bold infusion of classic Ole Smoky moonshine with dill pickle brine. It’s tangy, savoury and perfect for cocktails, or even as a straight shot for pickle lovers.

2. Can I make this cocktail without club soda?

Yes! If you don’t have club soda, try using sparkling water or tonic water as a substitute. For a sweeter variation, substitute lemon-lime soda for a refreshing twist.

3. What food pairs well with Pickle Moonshine cocktails?

This cocktail pairs beautifully with salty, smoky, and spicy foods. Think buffalo wings, BBQ sliders, fried pickles, charcuterie boards, and grilled meats. The acidity of the pickle brine balances out rich flavours.

4. Can I batch this recipe for a party?

Absolutely! Multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need, mix them in a large pitcher (excluding the soda), and keep the mixture chilled. Add club soda just before serving to preserve the fizz.

5. How strong is Ole Smoky Pickle Moonshine?

Ole Smoky Pickle Moonshine is typically 40 proof (20% ABV), making it milder than straight whiskey but strong enough to add a nice kick to your cocktails.

6. Can I make a non-alcoholic version of this drink?

Yes! Substitute the moonshine with pickle brine or pickle juice from a jar and mix with lemon juice and club soda. You’ll still get that tangy, refreshing flavour, just without the alcohol.

Final Thoughts

Making this Ole Smoky Pickle Moonshine Recipe at home is a fun and flavorful way to shake up your cocktail routine. I love how the briny pickle juice, zesty lemon, and sparkling soda come together in one bold, refreshing sip. It’s the kind of drink that surprises guests, sparks conversations, and keeps everyone coming back for more.

Whether you stick to the classic recipe, try the Pickle Martini twist, or spice things up with a jalapeño kick, this moonshine cocktail is proof that adventurous flavours pay off. Grab your jar of Ole Smoky Pickles, pour yourself a glass, and enjoy the tangy magic of this one-of-a-kind drink. Cheers!