Kentucky Elderberry

ELDERBERRY RECIPES

ELDERBERRY RECIPES & COCKTAILS

Bowl of Elderberry
Elderberries

Below you will find a collection of recipes focused on the Elderberry fruit. We would love to hear your favorite recipe using Elderberry! We will post your recipes below making sure you get recognized for the credit. Send us an email at info@kentuckyelderberry.com. 

 

Basic Elderberry Syrup

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup dried elderberries or 2 cups fresh elderberries
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 cup raw honey

Directions:

  1. In a saucepan, combine elderberries and water.
  2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 30-45 minutes until reduced by half.
  3. Mash the berries to extract all the juice and strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
  4. Allow the liquid to cool slightly, then stir in the raw honey until well combined.
  5. Pour the syrup into a glass jar or bottle and store it in the refrigerator.
  6.  

Classic Elderberry Syrup

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup dried elderberries or 2 cups fresh elderberries
  • 4 cups water
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 1 teaspoon cloves
  • 1 teaspoon ginger
  • 1 cup raw honey

Directions:

  1. In a saucepan, combine elderberries, water, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and ginger.
  2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 30-45 minutes until reduced by half.
  3. Mash the berries to extract all the juice and strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
  4. Allow the liquid to cool slightly, then stir in the raw honey until well combined.
  5. Pour the syrup into a glass jar or bottle and store it in the refrigerator.
  6.  

Elderberry and Citrus Infused Syrup

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup dried elderberries or 2 cups fresh elderberries
  • 4 cups water
  • Peel of 1 orange
  • Peel of 1 lemon
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 1 teaspoon cloves
  • 1 cup raw honey

Directions:

  1. Combine elderberries, orange peel, lemon peel, water, cinnamon sticks, and cloves in a saucepan.
  2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-45 minutes until the liquid reduces by half.
  3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
  4. Once the liquid has cooled slightly, stir in the raw honey until well incorporated.
  5. Transfer the syrup to a sterilized glass jar or bottle and refrigerate.
  6.  

Spiced Elderberry Syrup with Herbs

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup dried elderberries or 2 cups fresh elderberries
  • 4 cups water
  • 1/4 cup rosehips
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 5 cardamom pods
  • 2 star anise pods
  • 1 cup raw honey

Directions:

  1. In a pot, combine elderberries, rosehips, water, cinnamon sticks, cardamom pods, and star anise.
  2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 30-45 minutes until reduced.
  3. Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
  4. When the syrup has cooled slightly, stir in the raw honey until well mixed.
  5. Pour the syrup into a sterilized jar or bottle and store it in the refrigerator.
 

Elderberry Tincture

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup fresh elderberries (or 1/2 cup dried elderberries)
  • 2 cups high-proof alcohol (like vodka or brandy)
  • Clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid
  • Cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer
  • Funnel
  • Dark glass bottles for storage
  1. Instructions:

  2. Prepare the elderberries: If you’re using fresh elderberries, remove them from the stems. If you’re using dried elderberries, you can skip this step.

  3. Place the elderberries in a jar: Put the elderberries in a clean glass jar.

  4. Pour in the alcohol: Cover the elderberries completely with the alcohol. Ensure they’re fully submerged.

  5. Seal the jar: Tightly close the jar with its lid.

  6. Infuse the mixture: Store the jar in a cool, dark place for about 4-6 weeks, shaking it gently every day or so to agitate the contents.

  7. Strain the tincture: After 4-6 weeks, use a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to strain the liquid from the elderberries into a clean bowl or another jar. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible.

  8. Bottle the tincture: Use a funnel to pour the strained liquid into dark glass bottles for storage. Amber or cobalt bottles are ideal to protect the tincture from light.

  9. Label and store: Label the bottles with the contents and the date. Store the tincture in a cool, dark place. It can last for several months to a year when stored properly.

  1.  

Elderberry Muffins

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen elderberries

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, mix the melted butter, buttermilk, egg, and vanilla extract.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  5. Gently fold in the elderberries.
  6. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups.
  7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
  8. Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  9.  

Elderberry Crumble Bars

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups elderberries (fresh or frozen)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, 1/2 cup sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until the dough comes together.
  4. Press two-thirds of the dough into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the base.
  5. In another bowl, toss together the elderberries, 1/4 cup sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Spread this mixture evenly over the dough in the baking dish.
  6. Crumble the remaining dough evenly over the elderberry layer.
  7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
  8. Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them into squares.
  9.  

Elderberry Ice Cream

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups elderberries (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Directions:

  1. In a saucepan, combine the elderberries and sugar. Heat over medium-low heat, mashing the berries as they cook. Simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the berries release their juices and the mixture thickens slightly.
  2. Remove the elderberry mixture from heat and strain it through a fine-mesh sieve, pressing to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the solids and set the elderberry syrup aside to cool.
  3. In a separate saucepan, heat the heavy cream and milk over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat.
  4. In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks until they lighten in color. Gradually pour the hot cream mixture into the yolks, whisking constantly.
  5. Return the combined mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes). Do not let it boil.
  6. Remove the custard from heat and strain it through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl. Let it cool to room temperature.
  7. Stir in the elderberry syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt into the custard.
  8. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight until well chilled.
  9. Once chilled, churn the mixture in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  10. Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for a few hours to firm up before serving.

This elderberry ice cream offers a unique and delicious dessert with the wonderful taste of elderberries! Adjust the sweetness by altering the amount of sugar based on your taste preferences.

Elderberry Pie

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups elderberries (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • Pastry for a double-crust 9-inch pie
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)
  • 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
  • Sugar (for sprinkling)

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large bowl, gently mix together the elderberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and ground cinnamon until well combined. Let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the juices to release.
  3. Roll out half of the pastry and line a 9-inch pie dish with it. Trim the excess dough, leaving about a half-inch overhang.
  4. Pour the elderberry filling into the pastry-lined pie dish. Dot the filling with small pieces of butter.
  5. Roll out the remaining pastry for the top crust. You can create a lattice crust or a full top crust with vents for steam to escape. Seal and crimp the edges.
  6. In a small bowl, beat the egg with water to create an egg wash. Brush the top crust with the egg wash and sprinkle with sugar for a golden finish.
  7. Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
  8. Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 35-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
  9. If the edges of the crust start to brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
  10. Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Enjoy the delightful flavors of elderberries in this classic elderberry pie, perfect for dessert or a sweet treat!

  1.  

Elderflower Cordial

Ingredients:

  • 20 elderflower heads
  • 4 cups water
  • 2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 unwaxed lemons, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons citric acid (optional, for preservation)

Directions:

  1. Shake the elderflower heads to remove any insects but avoid washing them. Place them in a large heatproof bowl.
  2. In a saucepan, bring the water and sugar to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
  3. Pour the hot syrup over the elderflowers and add the lemon slices. Stir gently.
  4. Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let it sit at room temperature for 24-48 hours, stirring occasionally.
  5. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into sterilized bottles.
  6. Add citric acid if using, stir well, and seal the bottles. Store in the refrigerator. Dilute with water or use as a mixer for cocktails and mocktails.
  7.  

Elderberry and Apple Crisp

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups peeled and sliced apples
  • 2 cups elderberries (stems removed)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup butter, softened
  • Vanilla ice cream (optional, for serving)

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the apples, elderberries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Toss to coat and transfer to the prepared baking dish.
  3. In another bowl, mix the flour, oats, brown sugar, and softened butter until crumbly.
  4. Sprinkle the crumb mixture evenly over the fruit.
  5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling.
  6. Serve warm, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Elderberry Chutney

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups elderberries (stems removed)
  • 1 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup raisins
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • Pinch of cloves
  • Pinch of salt

Directions:

  1. In a saucepan, combine all the ingredients and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  2. Reduce the heat and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, for about 30-40 minutes until the mixture thickens.
  3. Remove from heat and let it cool. The chutney will thicken further as it cools.
  4. Transfer to sterilized jars and store in the refrigerator. It pairs wonderfully with cheese, meats, or as a condiment.
  5.  

Elderberry Steak Sauce

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup elderberries (stems removed)
  • 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup diced onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil

Directions:

  1. Heat a small amount of olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  3. Add the elderberries to the saucepan and stir gently.
  4. Pour in the red wine vinegar and bring the mixture to a simmer.
  5. Stir in the brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard powder, ground ginger, and ground allspice.
  6. Allow the mixture to simmer over medium-low heat for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until the elderberries break down and the sauce thickens.
  7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Remove the sauce from heat and let it cool slightly.
  9. Carefully transfer the sauce to a blender or use an immersion blender to puree until smooth.
  10. Strain the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any solids, pressing to extract all the liquid.
  11. Transfer the strained sauce back to the saucepan and reheat if needed before serving.
 

Elderberry Sauce for Chicken

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup elderberries (stems removed)
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 1 shallot, finely chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil

Directions:

  1. Heat a small amount of olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped shallot and sauté until softened, then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  3. Add the elderberries to the saucepan and stir gently.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and red wine vinegar. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  5. Stir in the honey or maple syrup and fresh thyme leaves.
  6. Let the mixture simmer over medium-low heat for about 15-20 minutes until the elderberries soften and the sauce thickens slightly.
  7. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the butter until melted and incorporated.
  8. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
  9. If desired, strain the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve or leave it as is for a chunkier sauce.
  1.  

Elderberry Gin Fizz

Ingredients:

  • 2 ounces gin
  • 1 ounce elderberry syrup (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/2 ounce fresh lemon juice
  • Club soda
  • Ice
  • Lemon twist or elderflowers (for garnish, optional)

Directions:

  1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
  2. Add the gin, elderberry syrup, and fresh lemon juice to the shaker.
  3. Shake the mixture vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to chill the ingredients.
  4. Strain the contents of the shaker into a highball or Collins glass filled with ice.
  5. Top off the glass with club soda to your desired level, stirring gently to combine.
  6. Garnish with a lemon twist or a few elderflowers (if available) for a decorative touch.
  7. Serve and enjoy your Elderberry Gin Fizz!

Elderberry Margarita

Ingredients:

  • 2 ounces silver tequila
  • 1 ounce elderberry syrup
  • 1/2 ounce triple sec or orange liqueur
  • 1 ounce fresh lime juice
  • Ice
  • Salt or sugar (for rimming, optional)
  • Lime wedge (for garnish)

Directions:

  1. Rim a margarita glass with salt or sugar (optional). Dip the rim into a shallow plate with salt or sugar.
  2. Fill the glass with ice cubes.
  3. In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine the tequila, elderberry syrup, triple sec, and fresh lime juice.
  4. Shake the mixture well for about 15-20 seconds.
  5. Strain the contents into the prepared margarita glass over the ice.
  6. Garnish with a lime wedge.
  7. Enjoy your Elderberry Margarita!
  8.  

Sparkling Elderberry Spritz

Ingredients:

  • 2 ounces prosecco or sparkling wine
  • 1 ounce elderberry syrup
  • 2 ounces soda water or club soda
  • Ice
  • Fresh berries or mint sprig (for garnish, optional)

Directions:

  1. Fill a wine glass with ice cubes.
  2. Add the elderberry syrup to the glass.
  3. Pour the prosecco or sparkling wine over the syrup.
  4. Top off with soda water or club soda.
  5. Stir gently to combine.
  6. Garnish with fresh berries or a sprig of mint, if desired.
  7. Enjoy your Sparkling Elderberry Spritz!
  8.  

Elderberry Bourbon Smash

Ingredients:

  • 2 ounces bourbon
  • 1 ounce elderberry syrup
  • 1/2 ounce fresh lemon juice
  • 2-3 fresh mint leaves
  • Splash of soda water
  • Ice
  • Mint sprig and blackberries (for garnish, optional)

Directions:

  1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the fresh mint leaves gently.
  2. Add bourbon, elderberry syrup, and fresh lemon juice to the shaker with ice.
  3. Shake well for about 15 seconds.
  4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
  5. Top it off with a splash of soda water.
  6. Garnish with a mint sprig and a few blackberries, if desired.
  7. Enjoy your Elderberry Bourbon Smash!

 
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