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Elderberry Liqueur

Homemade elderberry liqueur is a rich, fruity, and smooth drink infused with deep berry flavors and a bright citrus note from lemon, perfect for sipping or mixing in cocktails.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 days
Servings: 24 glasses
Course: Beverage, Cocktail
Cuisine: American, Homemade
Calories: 120
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Elderberry Liqueur Ingredients
  • 4 cups fresh elderberries Pick ripe, dark blue-black berries only.
  • 4 cups vodka Standard 80-proof vodka is recommended.
  • 1 piece lemon rind Peel in wide strips, avoid the white pith.
  • 1 to 2 cups sugar or honey Start with 1 cup and add to taste.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pull the elderberries off their stems using a fork. Rinse the berries in cool water and remove any leaves, green berries, or bits of stem.
  2. Place the clean berries into a large, clean glass jar. Pour in the vodka until the berries are fully submerged.
  3. Peel the lemon rind in wide strips, avoiding the white pith, and add the strips to the jar. Give it a gentle swirl.
  4. Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for at least one month. Shake gently once a week.
  5. After a few weeks, check the infusion by tasting a small sip. If stronger flavor is desired, allow it to steep longer.
  6. Set a fine strainer or cheesecloth over a clean bowl and pour the mixture through slowly, pressing the berries lightly to extract extra liquid.
  7. Add sugar or honey to taste, stirring until completely dissolved. Warm honey slightly to blend better.
  8. Pour the finished liqueur into clean glass bottles or jars, seal them tightly, and let them rest for a few more days before serving.

Notes

Store the finished liqueur in a cool, dark place with tightly sealed bottles. It can last a year or longer, and the flavor improves with age.