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Homemade Elderberry Syrup
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4.67 from 3 votes

Homemade Elderberry Syrup

Homemade elderberry syrup is easy to make at home with just a few simple ingredients. Using fresh or dried elderberries, this elderberry syrup recipe is ready in less than an hour.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Additional Time15 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Keyword: Elderberries, Elderberry Recipe, Elderberry Syrup
Author: Ashley Adamant

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 cup dried elderberries
  • 4 cups water
  • 1/2 cup honey see note

Instructions

  • Add elderberries and water to a saucepan and bring to a low simmer. Heat on low for about 30 minutes, and then remove from heat. (Most of the water is going to either evaporate or absorb into the dried berries. Keep the heat low and be careful not to let the pot boil dry.)
  • Strain the elderberry extract through cheesecloth or a fine-mesh strainer.  (Save the strained berries, they can still be used a few more times for making cups of elderberry tea.)
  • Optional ~ Allow the elderberry extract to cool to room temperature if using raw honey.
  • Measure the strained liquid, you should have about 1 cup of elderberry extract.
  • Add 1 part honey for every 2 parts juice.  With my elderberry syrup recipe, I have 1 cup juice, so I add 1/2 cup raw local honey.
  • Stir until the honey is completely dissolved, about 1-2 minutes.
  • Store homemade elderberry syrup in the refrigerator and use within 2-3 weeks. (See note to extend shelf life)

Notes

  • Double or triple this recipe, but Keep that ratio the same, using 1 part dried elderberries to 4 parts water, by volume. Then measure the strained liquid and add 2 parts elderberry extract to 1 part honey.
  • To make shelf-stable elderberry syrup, add an equal amount of 80 proof liquor (40% alcohol), such as vodka. I add echinacea tincture, which complements the immune-boosting properties of elderberry.
  • Dosage is usually 1 tablespoon (15ml) taken 3-4 times a day for adults.
  • Please consult your doctor before starting any new remedy, herbal or otherwise. Never feed honey to children under 2 years of age, and consult a doctor before using elderberry syrup for children.