A Middle Of The Mitten Homeschool

elderberry liqueur

Makes about 1 quart.
Prep Time: 30 days

• 1 pint fresh elderberries
• 1 quart vodka
• 3 one-inch pieces of lemon rind, white pith removed
• Sugar

1. Put elderberries into a quart Mason jar and pour over the vodka. Add the lemon rind (make sure the rind has no white pith, as it is bitter.) Seal and put in a dark cupboard for at least a month, or up to 6 months.
2. The alcohol will extract flavor from the elderberries over time, so the longer you let it sit, the inkier it will get.
3. When it is the color you want – anything from a Pinot Noir color to downright black — pour the vodka through a strainer lined with cheesecloth into another jar and add sugar.
4. How much sugar? At least 1/4 cup, but to your taste; I go with 1/3 cup. Shake to combine and put back in the cupboard.
5. After a few days or weeks, the sugar will completely dissolve and the elderberry liqueur is ready to drink. It keeps forever.