Elderberry Infused Honey Recipe for Immunity Boost

Updated On: October 13, 2025

Welcome to the delightful world of elderberry infused honey! This enchanting recipe transforms simple honey into a flavorful, health-boosting elixir that has been cherished for centuries.

Elderberries are celebrated for their immune-supporting properties, rich antioxidants, and vibrant taste. When infused with the natural sweetness of honey, the result is a luscious syrup perfect for soothing sore throats, sweetening teas, or drizzling over your favorite desserts.

Whether you’re a seasoned herbalist or a curious foodie, this elderberry infused honey recipe is incredibly easy to make at home. All you need are fresh or dried elderberries, quality honey, and a little patience.

By the end, you’ll have a jar of golden goodness that not only tastes amazing but can also serve as a natural remedy during cold and flu seasons.

Ready to embark on this tasty and healthy adventure? Let’s dive right in and discover why this recipe is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Elderberry infused honey is more than just a delicious treat — it offers a range of benefits and uses that make it a pantry staple. Here’s why you’ll adore making and using this recipe:

  • Health Benefits: Elderberries are packed with antioxidants and vitamins that help boost your immune system, making this honey a natural ally during cold and flu season.
  • Versatility: Use it as a sweetener for teas, a drizzle over yogurt or pancakes, or even as a natural cough syrup.
  • Simple Ingredients: Made with just honey and elderberries, this recipe is free from artificial additives or preservatives.
  • Long Shelf Life: Properly stored, elderberry infused honey can last for months, offering a tasty health boost whenever you need it.
  • Unique Flavor: The rich, fruity notes of elderberries blend beautifully with the floral sweetness of honey, creating a unique flavor profile.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup dried elderberries (or 1½ cups fresh elderberries, stems removed)
  • 2 cups raw honey (choose a high-quality, unprocessed honey for best results)
  • Optional: 1 cinnamon stick or a few slices of fresh ginger for added flavor

Equipment

  • Glass jar with airtight lid (preferably a quart-sized mason jar)
  • Small saucepan (if using fresh elderberries)
  • Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups
  • Funnel (optional, for transferring honey)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the elderberries: If using dried elderberries, ensure they are clean and free from stems or debris. For fresh elderberries, gently rinse them under cold water and remove any stems or leaves.
  2. Optional simmering step: If using fresh elderberries, place them in a small saucepan with 1 cup of water. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for about 20 minutes until the berries are soft and have released their juice. Let cool completely.
  3. Combine elderberries and honey: In your glass jar, add the dried elderberries (or the cooked and cooled elderberry juice and mash mixture if using fresh berries). Pour the honey over the berries until fully covered.
  4. Add flavor enhancers: If you want, add a cinnamon stick or fresh ginger slices to the jar for an extra layer of flavor.
  5. Seal and infuse: Close the jar tightly and place it in a cool, dark place. Let the elderberries infuse for 1 to 2 weeks, gently shaking the jar every day to mix the contents.
  6. Strain the honey: After the infusion period, strain the honey through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a clean jar. Press gently to extract as much honey as possible but avoid forcing berry solids through.
  7. Store your elderberry infused honey: Seal the jar and store in a cool, dark place. It can last for several months without refrigeration.
  8. Use and enjoy: Spoon your elderberry honey into teas, drizzle over toast, or use in recipes as a natural sweetener and health booster.

Tips & Variations

“Always use elderberries from a trusted source. Raw elderberries, stems, and leaves can be toxic if not properly prepared.”

  • Use dried elderberries for ease and safety, especially if you can’t verify fresh berry sources.
  • Adjust infusion time: For a stronger flavor, let the honey infuse for up to 3 weeks.
  • Flavor twists: Add a vanilla bean, star anise, or a splash of lemon juice to customize the taste.
  • Sweetener swap: Try this recipe with raw maple syrup or agave nectar for a different flavor profile.
  • Cold infusion method: For a no-heat option, simply mix dried elderberries with honey and let sit for 2-3 weeks.
  • Gift idea: Package your elderberry honey in pretty jars with labels for thoughtful homemade gifts.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per 1 tbsp (21g)
Calories 64
Total Fat 0g
Sodium 0mg
Total Carbohydrates 17g
Dietary Fiber 0.2g
Sugars 16g (natural sugars from honey)
Protein 0g
Vitamin C 2% DV (from elderberries)
Antioxidants High (from elderberries)

Serving Suggestions

There are countless ways to enjoy elderberry infused honey. Here are some of our favorite ideas to inspire your culinary creativity:

  • Stir a spoonful into hot herbal or green tea for a soothing, immune-boosting drink.
  • Drizzle over warm oatmeal or porridge for a naturally sweet and fruity flavor.
  • Add to salad dressings or marinades for a subtle sweetness and depth.
  • Use as a glaze for roasted vegetables or grilled tofu for a delicious twist.
  • Spread on toast or vegan cheese crackers for a simple yet flavorful snack.
  • Mix into homemade vegan yogurt bowls alongside nuts and fresh fruits.

For more delightful vegan recipes that pair well with elderberry honey, check out our Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious and Berry Cobbler Recipe Vegan: Easy, Delicious, and Healthy.

Conclusion

Making elderberry infused honey at home is a rewarding and simple way to combine the natural sweetness of honey with the powerful health benefits of elderberries. This recipe not only yields a delicious and versatile product but also offers a natural remedy that you can rely on throughout the year.

Whether you use it to sweeten drinks, enhance meals, or support your immune system, elderberry honey is a pantry treasure worth making.

With just a few ingredients and a little patience, you can create a beautiful infusion that brings both flavor and wellness into your kitchen. Plus, it makes a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family.

Don’t forget to explore other fantastic vegan recipes on our site, like the Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping to complement your natural pantry staples!

📖 Recipe Card: Elderberry Infused Honey

Description: A sweet and immune-boosting honey infused with elderberries. Perfect for teas and natural remedies.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT10M

Servings: 1 cup

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup dried elderberries
  • 1 cup raw honey
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

Instructions

  1. Place dried elderberries in a clean glass jar.
  2. Pour raw honey over the elderberries, covering them completely.
  3. Add lemon juice, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves to the jar.
  4. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
  5. Seal the jar tightly and store in a cool, dark place.
  6. Let the mixture infuse for 5-7 days, shaking gently daily.
  7. Strain the honey through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove elderberries.
  8. Transfer the infused honey to a clean jar for storage.

Nutrition: Calories: 60 | Protein: 0.1g | Fat: 0g | Carbs: 17g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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