In your saucepan, combine the dried elderberries, water, cinnamon stick, whole cloves, and fresh ginger. If using dried spices, add them here as well. (Kids can help measure the dry ingredients!)

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently. You want the liquid to reduce by about half, which will take approximately 40-45 minutes. Your kitchen will smell wonderfully aromatic!

Remove the pot from the heat and allow the mixture to cool until it's safe to handle, about 20-30 minutes.

Pour the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer or a cheesecloth-lined bowl. Using the back of a wooden spoon, press down firmly on the berries to squeeze out every last drop of the precious liquid. Discard the spent berries and spices in your compost.

Once the liquid has cooled to lukewarm (to preserve the beneficial enzymes in raw honey), stir in the raw honey until it is completely dissolved. If using maple syrup, you can add it while the liquid is slightly warmer.

Transfer your finished elderberry syrup into a clean, airtight glass jar. Store it in the refrigerator. For other preservation ideas, check out our guide to making an an herbal cordial recipe.