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This elderberry smoothie recipe harnesses the natural power of black elderberries, which boast nearly double the anthocyanins of other berries. This special type of flavonoid promotes immune support, along with anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, and anti-cancer benefits. Blended with antioxidant-rich fruits to further bolster a healthy immune system, this recipe is a true winner.

For several years, my family lacked health insurance, so I took a proactive approach to healthcare. We focused on boosting our immune systems to help us avoid getting sick in the first place. From green smoothies to plant-based meals and natural remedies—we explored every avenue to stay healthy…and it worked. With kids back in school (mine included), restaurants reopening, and new COVID cases still in the headlines, it’s crucial to fortify your body’s natural defenses: the immune system.

One of the key immune-supporting ingredients I added to our smoothies was elderberry syrup. You can make elderberry syrup at home or purchase at many stores, I used the Sambucol Black Elderberry Syrup in this elderberry smoothie recipe.

Ingredients in an elderberry smoothie including dragon fruit cubes, elderberry syrup, blackberries and banana.

Elderberry Smoothie Ingredients

  • Dragon Fruit: Not only does it add a stunning pink hue, but dragon fruit is also a good source of fiber and vitamin C. It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that complements the other berries. If you’ve never had a smoothie with dragon fruit, it’s very similar to kiwi both in texture and flavor. A lot of grocery stores now carry frozen puree or cubed dragon fruit.
  • Blackberries: These little gems are packed with antioxidants and fiber, contributing to overall health and well-being. Their tartness balances the sweetness of the banana and dragon fruit.
  • Banana: The banana adds creaminess and natural sweetness to the smoothie, while also providing potassium, an essential electrolyte. For an extra thick and frosty texture, you can freeze bananas before blending.
  • Coconut Water: Coconut water is a fantastic source of hydration and electrolytes, keeping you refreshed and energized. You can substitute with water or almond milk (check out my list of top almond milk brands).
  • Elderberry syrup: If you’re wondering…what is elderberry good for? They are the berries and its syrup is known for its immune-boosting properties. It adds a delicious, slightly tart berry flavor to the smoothie.

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Adding elderberry syrup to a smoothie recipe.

Where to Buy Elderberry Syrup

You can find Sambucol Elderberry Syrup at Target, Costco, Amazon, major drug stores. It’s been flying off the shelves since COVID-19 became a pandemic, which is exciting to see more and more people lean towards the natural remedies world.

Overhead view of bananas and dragonfruit in a blender to make elderberry smoothie.
Blending elderberry smoothie in a high speed blender.

How to Make an Elderberry Smoothie

This Elderberry Smoothie is a quick, easy, and delicious way to support your immune system and enjoy a healthy treat. I also wanted it to be something that my kids would happily drink. This smoothie does all that in three simple steps:

  1. Combine all ingredients in a high-powered blender. Using quality smoothie blenders helps ensure everything gets smooth and creamy without any chunks.
  2. Blend until smooth and creamy. If you prefer a thicker smoothie, add a few more frozen berries. If it’s too thick, add a splash more coconut water.
  3. Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately!

For extra tips on creating the perfect smoothie, check out my guide on how to make a smoothie.

Glass of deep purple blackberry elderberry smoothie.

More Elderberry Recipes

For more immune boosting fruit smoothies using elderberry syrup, you can check out my favorites:

If you make this blackberry elderberry smoothie, I’d love to hear how it turned out in the comment box below. Your feedback helps me and all the readers in this community. And if you’re interested in more plant-based recipes (and exclusive content), sign up for my weekly recipe newsletter.

Elderberry smoothie recipe getting poured into a clear glass.
4.90 (108 votes)

Blackberry Elderberry Smoothie

This elderberry smoothie is a vibrant blend of sweet and tart, featuring the distinct tang of elderberry balanced by the sweetness of banana and dragon fruit. The tartness of blackberries adds a refreshing counterpoint, while coconut water creates a light and hydrating base. The result is a delicious and immune-boosting drink with a complex flavor profile and creamy texture.
Prep: 3 minutes
Blend: 2 minutes
Total: 5 minutes
Serves: 1
Author: Jen Hansard
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Ingredients  

Instructions 

  • Place all ingredients into a blender.
  • Puree until smooth.
  • Serve immediately.

Video

Helpful Tools

Notes

  • Other berries can be substituted for the blackberries. We recommend those high in antioxidants such as blueberries, raspberries, or cranberries.
  • Make sure to use at least 1 frozen fruit for a refreshingly cool smoothie. These frozen fruits also work perfectly for frozen meal prep smoothie packs if you like prepping ahead.
  • Feel free to add 1 cup leafy green vegetables  or 1/2 cup frozen cauliflower to increase the fiber content.

Nutrition

Serving: 16 oz | Calories: 260 kcal | Carbohydrates: 55 g | Protein: 4 g | Fat: 3 g | Saturated Fat: 1 g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1 g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1 g | Sodium: 325 mg | Potassium: 1167 mg | Fiber: 11 g | Sugar: 34 g | Vitamin A: 289 IU | Vitamin C: 35 mg | Calcium: 88 mg | Iron: 3 mg

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4.90 from 108 votes (2 ratings without comment)

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Comments

  1. 5 stars
    I’ll like a boost of my immune system because I’m particularly prone to colds/flu and in this current climate of covid19 one needs to be in the best shape (or at least close).

    1. Very important to keep our immune systems strong, especially now!

  2. 5 stars
    The season fast-approaches for building up our immune systems! Besides eating a plant-based diet, I want to ensure that I’m incorporating as many of my ancestors’ natural remedies as possible; elderberry syrup is one of those. Thank you for sharing this new smoothie! ; )

  3. Like many Mama’s, I need my immune system strong to take care of my ever growing son. Love all you do at Simple Green Smoothies!

  4. 5 stars
    I’ve been wanting to try Black Elderberry syrup for my family for quite some time now after hearing about its benefits from friends and family. I can always trust Jen to bring delicious, clean recipes for my family to enjoy!

    1. Jen’s the best, isn’t she?! She’s got our backs! 🙂

  5. 5 stars
    Love smoothies and do what I can to stay healthy. I just turned 75 and don’t look it or feel it. I look forward to trying elderberry syrup.

  6. Any suggestions for those of us who dislike bananas? I’m intrigued by new ingredients.

    1. How kind of you, Julia! I suggest leaving the banana out or you can sub 1/2 an avocado if you want some creaminess.

  7. 5 stars
    My cousin was recently diagnosed with breast cancer and is currently in treatment. I’ve been helping her with some natural immune boosters, like essential oils and, of course, your immunity smoothies. I believe she would really enjoy this one as she loves berries and tropical flavors like the dragon fruit. This recipe will be perfect for her!

  8. I love elderberry syrup! I have seen first hand how it helps ward off unwanted sickness!

  9. My parents have recently started making green smoothies after a family friend told them about the benefits they’ve seen since drinking green smoothies. As seniors, it has never been more important for them to boost their immune system. They need to prepare their bodies for the upcoming winter season where COVID and the flu will be a double threat…

    1. That’s very true, Sarah, and it’s great that you + your parents are taking steps to stay healthy and support your immune systems. 🙂

    1. And what better reason to start drinking this smoothie? 🙂

  10. I’ll definitely try the Sambucol Black Elderberry syrup in this recipe — it looks delicious! Boosting my immune system is important to me.

  11. 4 stars
    Elderberry is one of my go to ingredients to keep my immune system up.

  12. With the regular flu season upon us in addition to Covid-19, I want all the help I can get to stay healthy. I’ve heard of the benefits of elderberry syrup and would love to try it!

    1. So true, Cathy. We’re looking at a double whammy this fall / winter, and it’s important to get ahead of it!

  13. 5 stars
    Dragonfruit smoothies are the prettiest EVER! This one was delicious (sans the banana, can’t do that in a smoothie)!

  14. 5 stars
    This is my 34th day quarantined being Covid positive! I have never tried elderberry syrup and could sure use an extra boost!

    1. Kelly, so sorry to hear you have Covid-19! Elderberry syrup for sure would help your immune system fight the virus. Hang in there! We’re wishing you a speedy recovery!

  15. Elderberry is yummy and good for you. I love to give to my family during the fall. It’s especially crucial during the time we are currently in.

  16. Can’t wait to try this syrup! We’re needing all the immunity help we can get right now. With Covid but also not being able to be around the public isn’t helping our immune systems with anything.

    1. This syrup is a great way to support our immune systems, especially now!

  17. Would like to try this remedy for my son, who recently had a surgery and now goes to church to study with other kids. Hopefully it’ll help him to have stronger immune system to fight viruses and bacteria.

    1. The great thing about this smoothie is that it’s packed full of nutrients and immune-boosting goodness *and* it’s kid approved!

  18. 5 stars
    Lots of reasons to wanna boost my immune system. This elderberry smoothie recipe is a great way to start my day.

    1. This smoothie is definitely a wonderful way to start your day!

  19. This is so cool, I have never tried Elderberry syrup. I like the fact of all the benefits you get from it.

    1. Def come back and let us know what you think after you give it a try, Lori!