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Homemade Elderberry Syrup with Cinnamon and Cloves

homemade elderberry syrup with cinnamon and cloves - featured image

A comforting and immune-supporting syrup made with dried elderberries, cinnamon, cloves, and honey. Perfect for cold season or any day that needs a little extra comfort.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup dried elderberries
  • 2 large cinnamon sticks (or 3 small)
  • 1 tablespoon whole cloves
  • 2-inch piece fresh ginger, sliced
  • 4 cups filtered water
  • 1 cup raw honey
  • Optional: peel from 1 organic orange

Instructions

  1. Combine berries and spices: In a medium saucepan, add the dried elderberries, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and sliced ginger. Pour in the 4 cups of filtered water. If using orange peel, add it now.
  2. Bring to a boil: Turn the heat to high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Reduce and simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 30-40 minutes until the liquid reduces by about half.
  4. Check for doneness: After 30 minutes, the liquid should be dark purple and smell deeply of berries and spices. The berries will have plumped up and look slightly wrinkled.
  5. Strain the mixture: Place a fine-mesh strainer over a large bowl or measuring cup. Pour the mixture through, catching the solids. Let it cool for about 10 minutes.
  6. Second strain: Line the strainer with a nut milk bag or cheesecloth and strain again. Press gently on the solids with a spoon to extract every last drop.
  7. Add honey: Let the strained liquid cool until warm but not hot (around body temperature). Stir in the raw honey until fully dissolved. Never add honey to hot liquid.
  8. Bottle and store: Pour the syrup into a sterilized glass jar. Seal tightly and let it cool completely before refrigerating.

Notes

Do not give honey to children under 1 year old. For a vegan version, swap honey for maple syrup or agave. The flavors deepen after a week in the fridge. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: elderberry syrup, homemade syrup, immune support, cold season, cinnamon, cloves, honey, natural remedy