Elderberry Gummies w/ Grass-fed Gelatin
By making your own elderberry gummies, you can control the ingredients and ensure a healthy and delicious treat for you and your family.
We just wrapped up the Halloween festivities, and my kids returned home with a mountain of candy. While we love the spirit of the season, the excess of sugary treats isn’t our favorite. We’ve transitioned to a more homemade snack approach, but a few pieces of candy here and there are hard to resist. It’s all about balance, right? To help manage the candy influx, I turn to the allure of my homemade gummies. They’re a healthier and equally delicious alternative that keeps my kids satisfied while I discreetly donate or dispose of the rest of the candy. (I know, I’m the worst mom ever, right?)
Homemade elderberry gummies are a delicious and nutritious treat that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Made with simple ingredients like elderberry syrup, grass-fed gelatin, and honey, these gummies are packed with antioxidants and immune-boosting properties. The process of making them is easy and fun, and the end result is a chewy, flavorful candy that’s a perfect treat for your little people. Whether you’re looking to support your immune system during cold and flu season or simply want a healthy and tasty treat, homemade elderberry gummies are a great option.
Learn how to make the Elderberry Base here!
Where Do I Source my Elderberries?
If you grow your own or have a friend or family member who does that would be most ideal and cost effective. But if you do not then I like to purchase dried elderberries through Mountain Rose Herbs or you can pick up smaller portions at your local sprouts!
Health Benefits of Elderberry
Elderberry is a versatile plant with a long history of medicinal use. Its berries are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which can help strengthen your immune system. Studies have shown that elderberry can:
- High in vitamin C: Roughly 57% of your DV per cup of fruit
- High in dietary fiber: 36% of your DV per cup
- Phenolic acids: These compounds are potent antioxidants that can help reduce damage from oxidative stress in the body
- Flavonols: Antioxidant flavonols quercetin, kaempferol, and isorhamnetin. The flowers contain up to 10 times more flavonols than the berries
- Anthocyanins: These compounds give the fruit its characteristic dark black-purple color and are a strong antioxidant with anti-inflammatory effects
- Cancer fighting: Both European and American elder have been found to have some cancer-inhibiting properties in test-tube studies
- Anti-bacterial: Elderberry has been found to inhibit the growth of bacteria like Helicobacter pylori and may improve symptoms of sinusitis and bronchitis.
- Immune Booster!
- May have some antidepressant properties.
Health Benefits of Grass-fed Gelatin
Grass-fed gelatin offers a multitude of health benefits due to its high protein content and unique amino acid profile. Sourced from the bones and connective tissues of grass-fed cows, it provides a natural source of collagen, which supports healthy skin, hair, nails, and joints. Additionally, gelatin can promote gut health and reduce inflammation. Its amino acids contribute to muscle growth and repair, while also supporting brain function and cognitive health.
Tips For the Perfect Elderberry Gummies
- Quality Ingredients: Use Organic Grass-fed Gelatin. Make your own elderberry syrup by combining 1 part Honey to 1 part Elderberry Decoction!
- Temperature Control: Don’t overheat the mixture, as it can affect the gelatin’s setting properties.
- Mold Selection: Silicone molds are ideal for easy removal, but you can also use a greased baking dish and cut the gummies into desired shapes.
- Flavor Variations: Add a splash of different juices to change up the flavor profile. You can also experiment with different sweeteners like maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Storage: Store the gummies in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and prevent melting.
How to make Elderberry Gummies
Ingredients
- ½ cup elderberry base
- ½ cup honey or sugar
- ½ unsweetened pomegranate juice
- 4 tblsp grass-fed gelatin
- ¼ cup lemon juice
Step-by-step Instructions
- Prepare Elderberry Base: Learn how to make your own elderberry base here.
- Bloom the Gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the pomegranate juice. Let it sit for a few minutes to bloom.
- Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, combine the bloomed gelatin, elderberry, lemon and honey or sugar.
- Heat Gently: Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, until the gelatin is completely dissolved.
- Pour into Molds: Pour the mixture into silicone molds or a greased baking dish.
- Set: Let sit for 10 minutes on the counter to cool and then let the gummies set in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight.
- Remove and Enjoy: Once set, pop the gummies out of the molds and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy!
Elderberry Gummies w/ Grass-fed Gelatin
Ingredients
- ½ cup elderberry base
- ½ cup honey or sugar
- ½ cup unsweetened pomegranate juice
- 4 tblsp grass-fed gelatin
- ¼ cup lemon juice
Instructions
- Bloom the Gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the pomegranate juice. Let it sit for a few minutes to bloom.
- Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, combine the bloomed gelatin, elderberry, lemon and honey or sugar.
- Heat Gently: Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, until the gelatin is completely dissolved.
- Pour into Molds: Pour the mixture into silicone molds or a greased baking dish.
- Set: Let sit for 10 minutes on the counter to cool and then let the gummies set in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight.
- Remove and Enjoy: Once set, pop the gummies out of the molds and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy!
