If you’re looking to boost your immune system naturally while enjoying a deliciously sweet and tangy treat, elderberry syrup is your perfect companion. Made from the vibrant elderberries that grow abundantly in late summer and early fall, this syrup is packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and antiviral properties.
Canning elderberry syrup not only preserves its fresh flavor but also allows you to store it safely for months, so you can enjoy its health benefits all year round. Whether you add it to your morning tea, drizzle it over pancakes, or take it straight by the spoonful during cold season, homemade elderberry syrup is a pantry staple worth making.
In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through a straightforward elderberry syrup canning recipe, covering everything from ingredients to essential tips for perfect preservation. Let’s dive in and create a batch of this beautiful, health-boosting syrup that’s as versatile as it is tasty.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This elderberry syrup recipe is a fantastic blend of simplicity and nutrition. By canning your syrup, you ensure it lasts much longer without losing its potent health benefits.
You’ll love how the natural sweetness of honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option) complements the tartness of elderberries, creating a balanced flavor that’s perfect for both adults and kids.
It’s a versatile syrup that can be incorporated into various meals and drinks, making it not just a health supplement but also a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire. Plus, using fresh elderberries means you’re harnessing the full power of this superfruit in its most natural form.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh elderberries (or 1 cup dried elderberries)
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup raw honey (or maple syrup for a vegan alternative)
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 3-4 whole cloves
- 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger (optional but recommended)
- Juice of 1 lemon
Equipment
- Large saucepan or pot
- Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
- Glass jars with lids (sterilized for canning)
- Large bowl for straining
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Water bath canner or large stockpot for sterilizing jars
- Jar lifter or tongs
- Funnel (optional, for easier jar filling)
Instructions
- Prepare the elderberries: If using fresh elderberries, remove all stems and rinse them thoroughly under cold water. Stems are toxic, so be sure to remove them carefully.
- Cook the berries: Place the elderberries, water, cinnamon stick, cloves, and grated ginger into a large saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Strain the mixture: Using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth over a large bowl, carefully strain out the solids. Press the berries gently to extract as much juice as possible without forcing pulp through.
- Add sweetener and lemon: Once the elderberry juice is warm but not hot, stir in the honey (or maple syrup) and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Mix well to combine.
- Prepare jars for canning: Sterilize your glass jars and lids by boiling them in a water bath or using a dishwasher on a high-heat cycle. Keep them warm until ready to fill.
- Fill the jars: Using a funnel if desired, pour the elderberry syrup into the sterilized jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace.
- Seal and process: Wipe jar rims clean, place lids on top, and screw on bands until fingertip tight. Process jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure safe preservation.
- Cool and store: Remove jars carefully with a jar lifter and place on a clean towel. Let them cool completely at room temperature. Check seals after 24 hours; lids should not flex when pressed.
Tips & Variations
“Always remove elderberry stems and leaves before cooking, as they contain toxins that can cause nausea.”
- Sweetener choice: If you prefer your syrup less sweet, adjust the honey or maple syrup amount to taste after cooking.
- Flavor variations: Add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg for a different flavor profile.
- Storage tip: Store unopened jars in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep refrigerated and consume within 2-3 weeks.
- Use dried elderberries: If fresh elderberries aren’t available, dried elderberries work well. Use half the quantity listed and simmer slightly longer.
- Boost immunity: Consider adding echinacea or turmeric during cooking for extra immune support.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per 1 Tbsp |
|---|---|
| Calories | 35 |
| Carbohydrates | 9 g |
| Natural Sugars | 8 g |
| Vitamin C | 5% DV |
| Antioxidants | High |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
Serving Suggestions
Elderberry syrup is incredibly versatile:
- Mix 1-2 tablespoons into hot water or tea for a soothing immune boost.
- Drizzle over pancakes, waffles, or oatmeal for a fruity kick.
- Add to sparkling water or cocktails for a tangy, healthful twist.
- Use as a natural sweetener in salad dressings or marinades.
- Take by the spoonful daily during cold and flu season for preventive care.
If you enjoy making homemade syrups and natural remedies, you might also love our Best Vegan Latte Recipe for Creamy, Delicious Mornings and Amazing Gluten Free Low Calorie Vegan Recipe Video Funny Moments.
For a wholesome meal to pair with your syrup, check out the Apple Barn Pigeon Forge TN Vegetable Soup Recipe Guide.
Conclusion
Making your own elderberry syrup and canning it is a rewarding experience that combines culinary creativity with health-conscious living. This recipe offers a simple yet effective way to preserve the incredible benefits of elderberries, ensuring you have a delicious, immune-boosting tonic ready whenever you need it.
Not only does homemade syrup taste fresher and more vibrant than store-bought versions, but it also allows you to control the ingredients, making it as natural or as sweet as you prefer.
With just a few basic ingredients and equipment, you can create a beautiful batch of elderberry syrup that supports your wellness journey throughout the year. Plus, experimenting with different spices and sweeteners means you can tailor the flavor to your liking.
So gather your elderberries, start canning, and enjoy a taste of nature’s medicine at home!
📖 Recipe Card: Elderberry Syrup Canning Recipe
Description: A homemade elderberry syrup perfect for boosting immunity, preserved through canning for long-term storage. This recipe yields a sweet and tangy syrup that can be used in teas or as a natural remedy.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M
Servings: 4 cups
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried elderberries
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup raw honey
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 3 whole cloves
- 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Combine elderberries, water, cinnamon stick, cloves, and ginger in a pot.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer for 30 minutes.
- Remove from heat and strain out solids using a fine mesh strainer.
- Allow liquid to cool slightly, then stir in honey and lemon juice.
- Pour syrup into sterilized jars, leaving 1/2 inch headspace.
- Seal jars and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
- Remove jars and let cool completely before storing.
Nutrition: Calories: 60 | Protein: 0.2g | Fat: 0g | Carbs: 17g
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