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Best Homemade Elderberry Immune Syrup Recipe

elderberry immune syrup - featured image

A simple, slow-simmered elderberry syrup made with dried elderberries, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and raw honey. This immune-supporting syrup is a cozy, kid-friendly ritual that’s easy to make and perfect for cold-weather wellness.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (about 140g) dried elderberries
  • 2-inch piece fresh ginger, sliced thin
  • 2 whole cinnamon sticks
  • 1 teaspoon whole cloves
  • 1 cup (about 340g) raw honey
  • 4 cups (960ml) filtered water

Instructions

  1. Combine berries and water: Add the dried elderberries, sliced ginger, cinnamon sticks, and whole cloves to a medium heavy-bottomed pot. Pour in the 4 cups of filtered water. Give everything a gentle stir.
  2. Bring to a boil, then simmer: Set the pot over medium-high heat and bring it to a gentle boil. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 30-40 minutes, until the liquid reduces by about half (roughly 2 cups).
  3. Mash the berries (optional but recommended): About 20 minutes in, use a potato masher or the back of a wooden spoon to gently press down on the berries to release more flavor.
  4. Strain the mixture: Place a fine-mesh strainer (lined with cheesecloth if available) over a large bowl or heatproof measuring cup. Carefully pour the hot liquid through. Let it sit and drip for a few minutes.
  5. Cool the liquid: Let the strained liquid cool to room temperature, about 30-45 minutes. It should be warm but not hot.
  6. Stir in the honey: Once the liquid is cool, add the 1 cup of raw honey. Whisk gently until the honey is completely dissolved.
  7. Bottle and store: Using a funnel, pour the syrup into clean, dry glass jars, leaving about ½ inch of headspace. Seal tightly and label with the date.

Notes

Do not add honey to boiling liquid as it destroys beneficial enzymes. Let syrup cool completely before adding honey. For a clearer syrup, strain twice. Syrup thickens slightly in the fridge. Not suitable for infants under 1 year due to honey. If using fresh elderberries, use 2 cups fresh for every 1 cup dried and reduce water by ½ cup; fresh berries must be cooked thoroughly.

Nutrition

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