Place the elderberries and three cups of water into a two-quart saucepan. Simmer over medium heat for 40 minutes.
Remove from the heat. Strain out elderberries and return the juice to the saucepan. Return the saucepan to the heat. Reduce the elderberry juice to one cup over low heat. Do not let the juice scorch.
Add honey and sugar to the hot juice. Simmer the sweetened juice for 20 minutes. Remove the saucepan from the heat.
In a separate bowl sprinkle the gelatin over the remaining half cup of cold water. Allow the gelatin to bloom for five minutes. Stir the gelatin into the hot juice.
Meanwhile prepare the silicone molds by greasing lightly with coconut oil, olive oil, or butter. Or you can use a cooking spray for this part to save time.
Add the prepared gelatin to the elderberry juice. Stir to fully dissolve the gelatin.
Fill the molds. This makes 300 gummy bears which is enough for six molds.
Place the molds in the fridge or in another cool place overnight or for four to six hours.
Remove from the mold. If they are fully set they should pop out easily. Roll in organic sugar if desired. Store in airtight container. Will keep in a cool, dry environment for two weeks. If desired they can be kept in the freezer to prolong their shelf life.
Notes
Serving suggestions:
These gummy bears have ¼ teaspoon of elderberry syrup plus healthy gelatin. Average serving is four gummy bears three times a day during cold and flu season.The dose on a bottle of elderberry syrup is 1 teaspoon three times a day for prevention of colds and flu, and one teaspoon every two hours during a cold or flu episode.Children under five should take a half serving. Children who are not used to solid food would be better to avoid gummies as they could become a choking hazard.
Disclaimer:
This shouldn’t be construed as medical advice. Consider this information as one mom talking to another over a cup of tea. Talk to your medical professional for any health concerns.