Elderberry Syrup Recipe

3.79 from 33 votes

Elderberry Syrup Recipe

This elderberry syrup recipe uses a sweet and simple decoction of berries and honey. It's a delicious, easy, and kid-approved way to support immune function during sniffle season.

Recipe yields approximately two cups total.

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 45

Cooling time 40

Total Time 1 10

Servings teaspoons

Calories 11kcal

Author Heather Dessinger, FDN-P

Ingredients

½ cup dried organic elderberries (or 1 cup fresh elderberries)
2 cups water
1 cup raw honey *
1-2 tbsp fresh ginger root, grated or minced (optional)
1 cinnamon stick (optional)

Instructions

Add water, elderberries and ginger/cinnamon (if you're using them) to a pot and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat and simmer until liquid is reduced by half. This should take around 45 minutes.
Pour the liquid through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove the berries. Allow liquid to cool to room temperature, then stir in the honey.
Transfer elderberry syrup to a mason jar (or other glass jar with a lid) and refrigerate.

Notes

Honey should not be given to children under one. For alternative options see the FAQ section below.

Sometimes instead of ginger root and cinnamon, I opt for 1-3 tablespoons rosehips. Like elderberries, rosehips are rich in antioxidants that support immune function, but the real reason I switch them out is just to keep things interesting in the flavor department.

The version made with ginger and cinnamon is warming and cozy, while the version made with rosehips is more crisp and refreshing, especially if you mix it with some sparkling mineral water and a squeeze of lime.

Nutritional values are estimates.

Nutrition