🍸 Homemade Elderflower Cocktail Syrup: A Touch of Floral Elegance
There’s something utterly enchanting about elderflowers—their delicate blossoms and soft floral aroma capture the very essence of early summer. While elderflower liqueur is a well-loved addition to cocktails, not everyone wants alcohol in their drinks. Enter: Elderflower Syrup — a non-alcoholic, fragrant, and versatile mixer you can easily make at home.
Whether you’re whipping up a Hugo Spritz, sweetening iced tea, or drizzling over a fruit salad, this elderflower cocktail syrup will bring a burst of botanical beauty to your recipes.
🌼 What is Elderflower Syrup?
Elderflower syrup (also known as elderflower cordial) is a sweet, floral infusion made from the blossoms of the elder tree (Sambucus nigra). It’s often used as a mixer in both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, and as a flavoring in desserts. You may have heard of St-Germain, the elderflower liqueur—this syrup is a non-alcoholic alternative with a similar taste profile.
🧾 Ingredients
For about 1 liter (4 cups) of syrup:
- 20–30 fresh elderflower heads (or 1 to 1.5 cups dried elderflowers)
- 1 liter water
- 1 kg granulated sugar
- 2 organic lemons (zested and sliced)
- 1–2 tablespoons citric acid (optional but helps preserve and enhance flavor)
🥄 Instructions
🥣 Step 1: Clean the Elderflowers
- Pick the flowers on a dry, sunny day when they’re fully open and fragrant.
- Shake gently to remove insects.
- Trim the green stems (they can be bitter and slightly toxic).
- Do not wash with water—just gently inspect.
🍋 Step 2: Make the Base Infusion
- In a large heatproof bowl or pot, place the elderflowers, lemon slices, and lemon zest.
- In a separate pan, bring 1 liter of water to a boil.
- Pour the hot water over the flowers and lemons.
- Cover and let steep in a cool place for 24–48 hours.
🍯 Step 3: Strain and Sweeten
- Strain the infusion through a fine sieve or muslin cloth into a clean pan.
- Add 1 kg sugar and citric acid (if using).
- Heat gently, stirring until the sugar fully dissolves.
- Do not boil — just warm enough to blend the sugar.
🍾 Step 4: Bottle the Syrup
- While still hot, pour the syrup into sterilized bottles or jars.
- Seal immediately.
- Let cool, then store in the fridge for up to 1 month, or in a cool dark place if sealed tightly (can last longer with citric acid).
🧊 How to Use Elderflower Syrup
In Cocktails & Mocktails:
- Hugo Spritz (alcoholic): Elderflower syrup + prosecco + soda water + mint + lime
- Elderflower Lemonade: Mix with sparkling water and a squeeze of lemon juice
- Elderflower Mojito: Muddle mint, lime, and elderflower syrup; top with soda
- Iced Tea Upgrade: Add a splash to herbal or black iced tea
In Desserts:
- Drizzle over pancakes, waffles, yogurt, or vanilla ice cream
- Use to soak sponge cakes
- Mix into fruit salads for a floral twist
🌟 Tips & Variations
- Use organic lemons since the peel will be in the syrup.
- Want a twist? Add a few slices of fresh ginger or a sprig of lemon balm or thyme during the steeping stage.
- For stronger floral flavor, steep up to 48 hours before straining.
Final Sip 🌿
Making elderflower cocktail syrup at home is more than just a recipe—it’s a little ritual of capturing nature in a bottle. It’s light, fragrant, and endlessly adaptable, making it a must-have for your summer drink station. Whether you’re serving sparkling cocktails, refreshing mocktails, or simple lemonades, this syrup adds a dash of elegance and floral flair.
