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Elderberry gummies are a delicious and convenient way to support your immune system, making daily wellness convenient and easy. Whether you’re looking for a fun supplement for kids or a simple alternative to syrups and pills, these chewy gummies deliver powerful elderberry benefits in every bite. In this guide, we’ll cover their health benefits, a simple recipe to make them at home, and the best ways to use them in your daily routine.
This recipe utilizes our Elderberry Syrup Recipe. Be sure to check it out before you get started!
While this elderberry gummies recipe is a popular natural remedy, I’m not a doctor, and this information isn’t a substitute for professional medical advice. Be sure to talk with your healthcare provider before giving elderberry syrup to children or taking it alongside other medications.
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I can barely put into words how excited I am that the weather is cooling off. It has been hot here in the South, and I have a little boy with a zero-tolerance policy for temperatures above 70 degrees (thank you, eczema).
Naturally, with all good things come a few pitfalls. I fully anticipate the beautiful fall weather to bring pollen, runny noses, and the I-don’t-feel-so-goods.
That’s nothing compared to the bleeding-through-our-clothes issues we had over the summer (again, thank you, eczema), and I’m fully prepared to handle any sickness that may come.
A few days ago, I shared our recipe for Elderberry Syrup, and now I’m here to talk to you about gummies!
I love everything about elderberry syrup. It smells good, tastes wonderful, and it’s purple. You can’t argue with purple. The only hiccup I encounter with elderberry syrup is that it can be a tad messy with little ones. Adding a little bit of beef gelatin and letting them set up in fun silicone molds solves this problem and creates a fun, delicious supplement everyone will crave!
Never tried elderberry gummies? You’re in the right place!
What Are Elderberry Gummies?
Elderberry gummies are a chewable, supplement-style way to enjoy the benefits of elderberries without the mess of syrup. They’re made by combining elderberry syrup with gut-healing beef gelatin and then setting the mixture into bite-sized molds. The result is a soft, chewy, mess-free way for the whole family to reap the benefits of immune-boosting elderberries!
Many people prefer gummies because they’re easy to take daily, kid-friendly, and taste more like a treat than a supplement. You can buy them in stores, but making them at home allows you to control the ingredients, sweetness, and quality while saving money. If you’ve never made homemade gummies, this is a great recipe to start with because it’s so stinkin’ easy and your kids are guaranteed to love them (and possibly want to eat the whole jar. You’ve been warned!).
Elderberry Gummies Benefits
Elderberries have been used for centuries as a natural wellness booster, and turning them into gummies makes them simple to enjoy. Here are some of their key benefits:
- Immune support: Elderberries are rich in antioxidants, flavonoids, and vitamin C, which help strengthen your body’s natural defenses.
- Cold & flu relief: Studies suggest elderberry may help reduce the duration and severity of cold and flu symptoms when taken at the first signs of illness.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: The compounds in elderberries may help calm inflammation and support overall wellness.
- Kid-friendly supplement: Gummies are often easier for children to take than syrups or capsules, making them a great family-friendly option. Making homemade gummies also gives you peace of mind that your kids aren’t ingesting any artificial dyes, sweeteners, or other potentially harmful chemicals.
- Gut health support (from beef gelatin): Gelatin contains amino acids like glycine and proline, which may help soothe the gut lining and support healthy digestion.
- Joint and skin benefits (from beef gelatin): The collagen-boosting properties are also believed to support joint health, hair, skin, and nails.
Ingredients and tools You’ll Need for Homemade Elderberry Gummies
Making elderberry gummies at home is so simple, and you only need two ingredients:
- Elderberry syrup – This provides the flavor, color, and wellness benefits. You can use homemade syrup or store-bought.
- Beef gelatin – Helps the gummies set with a firm, chewy texture. Look for good-quality grass-fed beef gelatin, like Great Lakes, for the best gut-healing benefits. (Use agar-agar or pectin if you prefer a vegan version.)
- Silicone molds– Possibly the best part about homemade gummies! Silicone molds turn ordinary gummy supplements into a special treat your kids will look forward to. Bonus points if you let them help fill the molds! You can also skip the molds and pour your gummy mixture into a small glass dish lined with parchment paper, and cut the gummies into squares after they set.
How to Make Elderberry Gummies (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Pour cold or room-temperature elderberry syrup into a small saucepan and sprinkle with two tablespoons of beef gelatin. The saucepan should not be on the stove. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to bloom.
*Blooming gelatin means letting it sit in the elderberry syrup before heating it. This step softens the gelatin granules, allowing them to dissolve smoothly when added to warm liquid. Skipping this step can cause clumps or uneven texture in your gummies.
Step 2: When the gelatin is bloomed, warm the elderberry-gelatin mixture on the stove over medium-low, stirring constantly, until the gelatin has melted and the mixture is smooth.
Step 3: Transfer the mixture into silicone molds using a dropper or measuring cup. If you don’t have silicone molds, you can pour it into a small glass dish lined with parchment paper.’
Step 4: Place molds in the refrigerator for 1–2 hours, or until the gummies are firm and set.
Step 5: Pop gummies out of the molds and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Use within 2–3 weeks.
How to Use Elderberry Gummies Daily
One of the best things about elderberry gummies is how easy they are to work into your routine. Since they taste like a little treat, you won’t forget to take them, and your kids will beg for more! Here are some simple ways to use them:
- Daily wellness support – Take 1–2 gummies daily as part of your morning routine. You can take them alongside your other supplements so you don’t forget.
- At the first sign of illness – Increase the serving size to 2-3 times a day when you feel a cold coming on.
- Kid-friendly option – Pack one in a school lunchbox or give as an after-breakfast supplement (just be sure your recipe is safe for their age group. Because most elderberry syrup contains honey, it is not advised to give to children until 12 months).
- On the go – Store a small container in your bag so you can take them with you while traveling or during busy days.
FAQs
How long do homemade elderberry gummies last?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, they usually last 2–3 weeks.
Can kids take elderberry gummies?
Yes! Homemade elderberry gummies are a kid-friendly option. Be sure to check the serving size and avoid recipes containing honey for children under 1 year old.
Are elderberry gummies safe during pregnancy?
Elderberries are generally considered safe during pregnancy; however, it is recommended to consult with your midwife or obstetrician for individualized recommendations.
Can I make them vegan?
Absolutely! Replace beef gelatin with agar-agar or pectin. The texture will be slightly different—less chewy and more jelly-like—but still delicious and effective.
Are Elderberry Gummies Effective?
Research suggests elderberry may help shorten the duration and reduce the severity of cold and flu symptoms, but results vary. They’re best used as part of an overall healthy lifestyle.
Elderberry Gummies
Equipment
- 1 small sauce pan
- small silicone molds or
- small glass dish lined with parchment paper
Ingredients
- 1 cup elderberry syrup see note 1
- 2 tbs beef gelatin
Instructions
- Pour cold or room-temperature elderberry syrup into a small saucepan and sprinkle with two tablespoons of beef gelatin. The saucepan should not be on the stove. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to bloom (see note 2).
- When the gelatin is bloomed, warm the elderberry-gelatin mixture on the stove over medium-low, stirring constantly, until the gelatin has melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Transfer the mixture into silicone molds using a dropper or measuring cup. If you don't have silicone molds, you can pour it into a small glass dish lined with parchment paper.
- Place molds in the refrigerator for 1–2 hours, or until the gummies are firm and set.
- Pop gummies out of the molds and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Use within 2–3 weeks.
Notes
- I use our Elderberry Syrup Recipe for these gummies for the best quality and nutrition.
- Blooming gelatin means letting it sit in the elderberry syrup before heating it. This step softens the gelatin granules, allowing them to dissolve smoothly when added to warm liquid. Skipping this step can cause clumps or uneven texture in your gummies.
You’re going to Love These Gummies!
Gummies are a big deal in our home, and I have a feeling they will be in yours, too. They’re delicious, versatile, and when made with elderberry syrup, a great way to boost your immune system. Make a batch, pour into fun silicone molds, and take them daily for a wellness boost you can feel good about.
