Description
A rich, earthy, and spiced homemade elderberry syrup that serves as a natural immune booster and a comforting winter wellness ritual. It is easy to make, customizable, and makes a perfect gift.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup (85g) dried elderberries
- 2 cups (480ml) filtered water
- 1 large cinnamon stick (about 3 inches)
- 5–6 whole cloves
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, sliced
- 1 pod star anise (optional)
- ½ cup (170g) raw honey
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the dried elderberries, water, cinnamon stick, cloves, ginger, and star anise. Stir to combine.
- Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer gently for 45 minutes to 1 hour until the liquid is deep purple and berries have burst.
- Remove from heat and let cool for 15-20 minutes until safe to handle.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer or nut milk bag into a bowl, pressing the berries to extract all liquid. Discard solids.
- Ensure the liquid is warm, not hot, then stir in the raw honey until completely dissolved.
- Stir in the fresh lemon juice and apple cider vinegar.
- Let the syrup cool completely to room temperature.
- Pour into clean glass jars or bottles, seal tightly, and store in the refrigerator.
Notes
Do not use fresh elderberries as they can be toxic if not cooked properly; use dried or frozen wild elderberries. Do not give honey to children under 1 year old. For a clearer syrup, strain twice using a coffee filter or nut milk bag. The syrup keeps in the fridge for up to 1 month or can be frozen in ice cube trays for up to 6 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Condiments
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 45
- Sugar: 10
- Carbohydrates: 11
Keywords: elderberry syrup, immune booster, winter wellness, homemade syrup, natural cold remedy, elderberry recipe, immune support, winter gift idea