How to Make Elderberry Gummies

Elderberry gummies are a fun and tasty way to enjoy the immune-boosting power of elderberries — but if you’ve ever ended up with lumpy, rubbery pieces, you know the frustration. The secret? Blooming your gelatin before mixing.

In this recipe, I’ll show you the step-by-step process for smooth, flavorful elderberry gummies every time. Not only are they great for cold and flu season, but they’re also a healthy snack kids love.

For more herbal and natural remedy recipes, check out my Herbal Remedies pillar page.

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Quick Summary at a Glance

• Step 1: Bloom gelatin in 1/4 cup elderberry syrup.
• Step 2: Add 1/2 cup hot water.
• Step 3: Whisk in gelatin until dissolved.
• Step 4: Add the rest of the elderberry syrup.
• Step 5: Pour into molds and refrigerate until firm.

Why Make Elderberry Gummies

Elderberries are naturally rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and flavonoids, making them a powerhouse for supporting your immune system. Turning elderberry syrup into gummies is a fun way to enjoy those same wellness benefits in a form that feels more like a treat.

Kid-Friendly Way to Take Elderberry Gummies

If your kids aren’t fans of liquid syrups or just want to change up the usual routine, gummies are the perfect solution. They taste like candy but deliver the same elderberry goodness, no fuss, no complaints. Just one or two gummies a day can make it easy for the whole family to stay on track with their wellness routine.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients:

• Elderberry Syrup – Buy from a local seller or make your own elderberry syrup
• Gelatin – Grass-fed recommended for best texture and added nutrition
• Water – Cool water for blooming the gelatin
• Raw Local Honey – For natural sweetness and extra immune support

Equipment:

• Mold or Container – Silicone molds for fun shapes, or a glass dish you can cut into squares
• Measuring Cups – For accurate portions

Step-by-Step Instructions

Bloom gelatin by sprinkling ¼ cup gelatin over ¼ cup elderberry syrup in a small bowl. Let it sit for 2–3 minutes until it’s a thick gel.

The first time I made gummies I whisked the gelatin into the elderberry syrup and it siezed up immediately! It got so clumpy when I tried to add hot water and my gummies did not turn out. Trust me, bloom the gelatin so it doesn’t get clumpy.

Heat ¼ cup water until very hot (almost boiling, but not quite). Whisk the bloomed gelatin into the hot water until fully dissolved and smooth.

Let the gelatin mixture cool slightly. You want to cool the mixture so you don’t damage the raw honey that’s in the elderberry syrup. Some of the benefits of the elderberry syrup come in the raw honey, so don’t kill the good stuff by adding the elderberry syrup before it cools a bit. Add 1 cup of elderberry syrup and stir until combined.

Pour into molds or a glass dish. Refrigerate until set, about 2 hours. Take the gummies out of the mold. If using a dish, cut the gummies into little cubes. Store in the refrigerator for up to about 2 weeks. Store in the freezer for 2-3 months and thaw before using.

Adults can take 1-3 per day, 1 a day for kids. Keep in mind babies under 1 year old should not have anything with honey in them, and be aware of choking hazards of gummies under the age of 2. Pay attention to the size of your gummies and compare the amount of elderberry syrup you should take to the size of the gummy.

Tips for Smooth, Clump-Free Gummies

Nobody wants lumpy gummies! Getting that perfectly smooth, chewy texture comes down to how you handle the gelatin and liquid. Here are a few simple tricks:

Why Blooming Prevents Clumps

Gelatin needs to “bloom,” or hydrate, before you heat it. Sprinkle it evenly over a small amount of cool water or juice and let it sit for a few minutes. This allows the granules to absorb liquid and swell, which helps them dissolve smoothly once warmed. Skipping this step almost always leads to stubborn clumps, I know it did the first time I made these gummies, OOPS!

Whisking Technique

After blooming, gently whisk the gelatin into your warm water. Use a slow, steady motion rather than whipping air into the mixture. Whisking too vigorously creates bubbles that can make your gummies look cloudy instead of clear and smooth.

Temperature Control

Gelatin is sensitive to heat, too cool and it won’t dissolve, too hot and it can break down, losing its setting power. Aim to warm your liquid just enough to dissolve the gelatin completely (usually below boiling). If you’re using the stove, keep the mixture at a low, even heat while whisking, and remove it from the stove as soon as it’s smooth and combined.

Storage and Shelf Life

Fridge vs. Freezer Storage
Elderberry gummies keep best when stored in the refrigerator. Place them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out or absorbing other food odors. If you’d like to keep a batch longer, you can freeze gummies in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag once solid.

How Long They Stay Fresh
In the fridge, gummies typically last up to 2 weeks. In the freezer, they’ll keep well for 2–3 months. For best flavor and texture, eat them fresh within the first week.

Signs of Spoilage
If you notice mold growth, off smells, or a slimy texture, it’s time to toss the gummies. Always store them cold to avoid spoilage, since they don’t contain preservatives.

Flavor Variations

Want to change things up? Try these simple add-ins:

• Adding Citrus Zest – A bit of lemon or orange zest brightens the flavor and adds a boost of vitamin C.
• Ginger Kick – A touch of fresh grated ginger juice or powdered ginger adds a gentle spice and extra immune-supporting benefits.
• Using Other Herbal Syrups – Mix elderberry with ginger, echinacea, or rosehip syrups for added wellness benefits and a unique flavor twist.

Explore More Herbal Recipes

If you’re looking for other ways to enjoy herbs and natural remedies at home, here are some of my favorite recipes to try next:

• Elderberry Syrup Recipe – A simple, immune-boosting syrup you can make at home to support wellness through the seasons.
• Calendula Infused Oil – A soothing, skin-nourishing oil infusion perfect for homemade salves, balms, and natural skincare.
• Plantain Salve – A healing salve made with foraged plantain leaves to calm bites, stings, and minor skin irritations.

FAQs About Elderberry Gummies

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Ready to try these homemade elderberry gummies? They’re a simple, fun way to support your family’s wellness, plus kids love them! Whip up a batch today and keep them stocked in the fridge for a daily boost. If you’re looking for more natural remedies, don’t miss our Natural Living and Remedies Page or explore other herbal DIYs on the blog.