This syrup is technically a cordial, or alcohol maceration. Take it by the spoonful, add it to club soda for a sparkling treat that boosts your immune system, or enjoy the sweet, spiced flavor in winter cocktails. This yields a very large batch, perfect for making wellness-inspired gifts.
Ingredients:
4 Quarts fresh elderberries (or 2 quarts dried)
1 Quart water (or 2 quarts for dried berries)
2 Lbs. Sugar (or 1 lb sugar and 1 cup or so of maple syrup)
1 T. whole allspice
1 T. whole cloves
1 cinnamon stick
1 quart whiskey or brandy
Directions:
- Stem & wash the elderberries.
- Cover with water and cook until very soft; strain berries out.
- Measure juice; for each quart add 2 cups sugar (or part maple syrup).
- Return the saucepan.
- Tie spices into a mesh bag and add to the sugar/juice mixture.
- Cook until thick.
- Cool, remove spices and measure again.
- Add 1 pint liquor for each quart of syrup.
- Bottle and cork tightly.
- Let sit in cool dark place for at least 3 weeks. Improves with age.
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