Description
A simple, fast, and immune-boosting elderberry syrup made with dried berries, cinnamon, and raw honey. Ready in 30 minutes, this pantry-friendly tonic is perfect for soothing sniffles or adding a spiced sweetness to drinks and foods.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (115g) dried elderberries
- 4 cups (960ml) water
- 2 large cinnamon sticks
- 1 star anise pod (optional)
- 3–4 whole cloves
- 1 strip orange peel (about 2 inches, no white pith)
- 1 cup (340g) raw honey
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) fresh lemon juice
- 1 inch piece fresh ginger, sliced (optional)
Instructions
- Combine dried elderberries, water, cinnamon sticks, star anise, cloves, and orange peel in a 3-quart saucepan. Ensure berries are submerged.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then immediately reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer gently for 15 minutes until the liquid turns deep purple.
- Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes. Do not add honey to boiling liquid to preserve its enzymes.
- Place a fine-mesh strainer over a large bowl or jug. Pour the mixture through, pressing down on the solids with a wooden spoon to extract all liquid. Discard the solids.
- Once the strained liquid is warm (not hot), stir in the raw honey and fresh lemon juice until completely dissolved. Adjust sweetness or tartness to taste.
- Pour the syrup into clean glass bottles or jars. Let cool completely to room temperature before sealing to prevent condensation.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 weeks, or freeze in ice cube trays for up to 6 months.
Notes
Ensure elderberries are dried, not fresh, as fresh ones can be toxic. Use raw honey for maximum health benefits, but add it only after the liquid has cooled below 118°F (48°C). If the syrup is too thin, simmer longer to reduce. If too thick, add a splash of water. Honey may crystallize over time; warm the bottle in hot water to liquefy. For a vegan version, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar, though shelf life will be shorter.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 teaspoon
- Calories: 20
- Sugar: 5
- Carbohydrates: 5
Keywords: elderberry syrup, immunity booster, homemade health tonic, raw honey, cinnamon syrup, natural cold remedy, vegan alternative, pantry staples, quick recipe