Last Updated on June 26, 2025 by Nico
Elderberries are packed with vitamin C and are a staple in our winter wellness routine. This elderberry gummies recipe is super simple to make and makes consuming elderberry syrup easier for younger ones.

Consuming elderberry syrup is one our my favourite ways to help stave off coughs and colds during the fall and winter months. Elderberries are high in vitamin C and antioxidants, which make them a natural powerhouse for fighting seasonal bugs!
Research has even shown that consuming elderberry can help shorten the duration of sickness and reduce the severity of seasonal colds and flus.
We like to consume it during cold and flu season, and elderberry gummies make it easier for younger members of the family to enjoy it!
(If you already have a cold, you could try this simple thyme syrup for coughs and colds or this fire cider recipe!)
These homemade gummies are a fun and delicious way to consume all the benefits of elderberries and are an easy way for the whole family to get a boost of immune support.
The wonders of elderberries
Supports the immune system – Elderberries are packed with antioxidants and vitamins that can help the body fight off respiratory infections and stay strong.
Reduces cold & flu symptoms – Studies suggest that elderberry syrup may help you recover faster by easing congestion, cough, and fever.
Provides antioxidants – These berries are full of natural compounds that help protect your cells from free radicals which can cause cellular damage.
Helps balance blood sugar – Some research suggests elderberries may help the body process sugar more effectively, keeping energy levels steady.
Promotes healthy skin – The vitamins and antioxidants in elderberries support glowing skin and may help reduce signs of aging.

Elderberry gummy recipe
Tools
Silicon molds – I like these ones because they make homemade gummy bears
Small saucepan
Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth – I like this unbleached cheesecloth
Funnel
A small bowl
Ingredients
Bulk organic dried elderberries – Here’s an organic source
Raw honey or maple syrup – It’s best to find a local source! Avoid using honey in these gummies if you’re planning to give them to a child under 1 year old.
Cinnamon sticks
Fresh ginger
Cloves
Grass-fed gelatin powder (or agar agar for a vegan option)
Fresh lemon juice
Rose hips (optional) – can provide additional vitamin C – here’s a bulk source.
Hot water
For complete measurements, see the printable recipe card below.

Instructions
Step 1: Make elderberry syrup
Add all the elderberries, water, ginger, cloves, and cinnamon to a medium saucepan and turn the stove to a medium heat. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 30–45 minutes, or until the liquid is reduced by nearly half.

Once half the liquid has evaporated, remove the pan from the heat. Use a spoon or potato masher to gently mash the elderberries to release all juices.

Pour the mixture through cheesecloth into a glass bowl or measuring cup. Elderberries have tiny seeds that can irritate your stomach and they can fit through my strainer so I use cheesecloth instead.
Let the liquid cool down slightly and then mix in raw honey or maple syrup until it’s dissolved. Avoid using honey if you’re planning to give the syrup or gummies to a baby under 1 year old.
Pour the syrup into a glass jar or bottle with a lid and store in the fridge for up to two months.

Step 2: Make the elderberry gummies
Add the elderberry syrup into a small saucepan and set it to a low heat. Try not to boil it – just warm enough to comfortably dissolve gelatin (around 90–100°F / 32–37°C).
Sprinkle the gelatin evenly over the syrup and let it “bloom” for 1–2 minutes. Then whisk constantly until the mixture is smooth and the gelatin is fully dissolved.

Pour the liquid into silicone gummy molds or a glass baking dish. I like to use gummy bear molds because they’re fun for the kids but I usually just use a shallow baking dish and knife to cut out the gummies! If you use a mold, it’s best to use a dropper to avoid spilling syrup everywhere!

Transfer molds to the fridge and let them set for 1–2 hours, or until firm.
Pop gummies out of molds and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

How long do elderberry gummies last?
They should last in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks. You can also freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to a year. They are not shelf-stable so always keep them chilled and not at room temperature.
Can you freeze the gummies?
Yes! Freezing elderberry gummies helps them last longer while maintaining their immune-boosting properties.
How many gummies should I take?
For adults and children over two years old, we typically take 1-2 gummies per day. However, dosage may vary based on the size of the mold and personal health needs. Always consult your doctor or healthcare professional for medical advice before making dietary changes.
Elderberry side effects
Elderberries are high in fibre, and consuming large amounts may cause bloating. However, when taken in a reasonable amount, elderberry gummies are safe for most people.
Disclaimer – I’m not a medical professional and do not intend to offer medical or health advice in any content I create. I offer information for educational purposes and, as always, get your physician’s advice or the advice of your health care provider before trying a new herbal remedy. There are always possible unintended consequences of trying a new herbal remedy such as an allergic reaction or unexpected side effects like interactions with other medication.
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If you make your own homemade elderberry gummies and like them, please consider giving it 5 stars. Find me on Instagram @documentingsimpleliving and show me what you’ve made!

The Easiest Homemade Elderberry Gummies Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Add all the elderberries, water, ginger, cloves, and cinnamon to a medium saucepan and turn the stove to a medium heat. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 30–45 minutes, or until the liquid is reduced by nearly half.
- Once half the liquid has evaporated, remove the pan from the heat. Use a spoon or potato masher to gently mash the elderberries to release all juices.
- Pour the mixture through cheesecloth into a glass bowl or measuring cup. Elderberries have tiny seeds that can irritate your stomach and they can fit through my strainer so I use cheesecloth instead.
- Let the liquid cool down slightly and then mix in raw honey or maple syrup until it’s dissolved. Avoid using honey if you’re planning to give the syrup or gummies to a baby under 1 year old.
- Pour the syrup into a glass jar or bottle with a lid and store in the fridge for up to two months.
- Add the elderberry syrup into a small saucepan and set it to a low heat. Try not to boil it – just warm enough to comfortably dissolve gelatin (around 90–100°F / 32–37°C).
- Sprinkle the gelatin evenly over the syrup and let it “bloom” for 1–2 minutes. Then whisk constantly until the mixture is smooth and the gelatin is fully dissolved.
- Pour the liquid into silicone gummy molds or a glass baking dish. I like to use gummy bear molds because they’re fun for the kids but I usually just use a shallow baking dish and knife to cut out the gummies! If you use a mold, it’s best to use a dropper to avoid spilling syrup everywhere!
- Transfer molds to the fridge and let them set for 1–2 hours, or until firm.
- Pop gummies out of molds and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Looks sooo good. I want to try these. I like your gummy mold too! We love Elderberry.
They’re definitely easier than I thought. I hope you enjoy!
I regularly take elderberry syrup and my children remind me if I forget! Gummed sound like a far easier method of doling out doses! Thanks so much for sharing!!
🙂 nice!
Hi! I followed your recipe and once I added the gelatin it was super chunky and didn’t mix well. I couldn’t get it smooth w the ratio given, it didn’t look like the video. Any suggestions? I now have super chunky elderberry/gelatin that is cooling in the fridge in a pan which I hope to still cut into gummies but it was too chunky to put into my gummy bear molds- any tips would be helpful so I don’t mess it up in my next attempt!! Thanks!
I’m sorry to hear this! I’m not sure what to suggest beyond saying to make sure your gelatin completely dissolves.
How much syrup do you take daily?
I do a tablespoon usually
If I am using gelatin packets (4 packets to a box). Does that measure the same as bulk gelatin? Do I still use 1/2 cup for the recipe?
Yep still use the 1/2 cup!
Thank you for this recipe. I made elderberry syrup last week and will use it to make gummies.
That’s great! Let me know how it goes
This recipe calls for 1/2 cup or 3 1/2 Tablespoons of gelatin. 1/2 cup and 3 1/2 Tablespoons are not even close to the same. 1/2 cup does not mix into 1/3 cup of juice. It makes a chunky mess.
Grateful for this feedback – I first made this years ago and have updated the recipe.