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Elderberry syrup recipe on a wooden farmhouse table
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Elderberry Syrup Recipe

This homemade elderberry syrup recipe is simmered with cinnamon sticks and star anise for a warm, spiced flavor, then sweetened with raw honey for a soothing, immune-boosting syrup that’s easy to make and perfect for cold and flu season.

Materials

  • ⅔ cup dried black elderberries
  • 3 cups water
  • 2 cinnamon stick
  • 1 star anise
  • ¾ cup raw honey

Instructions

  • In a medium saucepan, add the water, dried elderberries, cinnamon sticks, and star anise pod. Place over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  • Reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced by about half.
  • Remove from heat. Use the back of a spoon to gently mash the elderberries to release more juice. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a clean bowl or measuring cup. Discard the solids.
  • Let the syrup cool slightly, but not fully, to room temperature. Then, stir in ¾ cup of raw honey (or more to taste) until it is fully dissolved. This protects the beneficial properties of the honey while still allowing it to melt into the syrup. Pour the syrup into a clean glass jar or bottle. Seal tightly and refrigerate. Use within 2–3 months.