Description

This homemade spiced elderberry syrup is a cozy, kid-approved fall wellness staple made with dried elderberries, warm spices, and honey. It’s a simple, budget-friendly way to support your immune system during cold season.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup dried elderberries
4 cups water
1 cup raw honey
2 cinnamon sticks
1 teaspoon whole cloves
1-inch piece fresh ginger, sliced
Orange peel from 1 orange (optional)
2 star anise pods (optional)

Instructions

Combine the dried elderberries, water, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, sliced ginger, and optional orange peel and star anise in a medium saucepan. Stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, about 5-7 minutes. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes, until the liquid has reduced by about half.
After about 20 minutes of simmering, gently mash the berries against the side of the pan with the back of a wooden spoon to release more flavor.
Place a fine-mesh strainer over a large bowl or heat-safe measuring cup. Carefully pour the hot liquid through the strainer. Press on the berries with a spoon to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the solids.
Let the strained liquid cool for 10-15 minutes until warm but not hot.
Stir in the honey until fully dissolved. Taste and adjust sweetness if desired.
Pour the syrup into a clean glass jar or bottle using a funnel. Seal tightly and let cool completely before refrigerating.

Notes

Do not add honey to boiling liquid to preserve its beneficial enzymes. Use whole spices instead of ground for a clearer syrup. The syrup will thicken slightly as it cools in the fridge. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 months. Not suitable for children under 1 year old due to honey.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Condiment
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
Calories: 45
Sugar: 11
Carbohydrates: 12

Keywords: elderberry syrup, spiced elderberry syrup, fall wellness, immune support, homemade syrup, elderberry recipe, honey syrup