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Easy Homemade Elderberry Syrup with Cinnamon & Cloves

elderberry syrup with cinnamon and cloves - featured image

This homemade elderberry syrup with cinnamon and cloves is a simple, immune-boosting remedy perfect for cold and flu season. Made with dried elderberries, warm spices, and raw honey, it’s delicious enough for kids to take willingly.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup dried elderberries
  • 4 cups filtered water
  • 23 whole cinnamon sticks (about 3 inches each)
  • 1 tablespoon whole cloves
  • 1 cup raw honey
  • Optional: 2-inch piece fresh ginger, sliced

Instructions

  1. Combine the base ingredients: In a medium saucepan, add the dried elderberries, filtered water, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and optional ginger slices. Stir to combine.
  2. Bring to a boil, then simmer: Turn heat to high and bring to a rolling boil. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer gently for 30 minutes.
  3. Watch the color change: Around 15 minutes, the water will turn deep purple. Keep an eye on liquid level; add a splash more water if reducing too quickly.
  4. Mash the berries (optional but recommended): After 25 minutes, gently mash the berries against the side of the pot with a spoon to release more flavor.
  5. Strain the mixture: After 30 minutes, remove from heat. Pour through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a large bowl or heatproof measuring cup. Let it drain naturally for about 10 minutes without pressing on the berries.
  6. Cool the liquid: Let the strained liquid cool completely (below 110°F), about 45 minutes to an hour.
  7. Add the honey: Once cool, pour in the raw honey and stir gently until completely dissolved.
  8. Bottle and store: Using a funnel, pour the syrup into a clean glass jar. Seal tightly and refrigerate.

Notes

Do not use fresh elderberries; they can be toxic. Always add honey after the liquid has cooled to preserve beneficial enzymes. For a vegan option, substitute maple syrup for honey. Store in the refrigerator for 2-3 months. For children over 1 year, give 1 teaspoon daily; for adults, 1 tablespoon daily. Consult a pediatrician before giving to children.

Nutrition

Keywords: elderberry syrup, homemade elderberry syrup, immune booster, cold remedy, cinnamon, cloves, natural remedy, elderberry recipe