Refreshing Elderflower Cordial Syrup
A quick and easy elderflower cordial syrup recipe that adds a floral, sweet, and citrusy twist to cocktails and lemonade. Perfect for summer gatherings and refreshing drinks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 36 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: About 6 cups (48 fluid ounces) 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Cuisine: British
Ingredients
Scale
- 20–25 large fresh elderflower heads (preferably organic)
- 4 cups (800 grams) granulated sugar
- 4 cups (1 liter) filtered or spring water
- Zest and juice of 2 large unwaxed lemons
- 1 teaspoon citric acid (optional)
Instructions
- Gently shake the elderflower heads to remove any bugs or dirt without washing them. Remove the tiny green stems. Zest the lemons carefully avoiding the white pith and juice them. (About 10 minutes)
- In a large saucepan, combine water and sugar. Heat gently, stirring until sugar dissolves. Bring to a boil and simmer for 2 minutes.
- Pour the hot sugar syrup into a large mixing bowl with elderflower heads, lemon zest, lemon juice, and citric acid if using. Stir gently, cover loosely with a clean cloth, and steep at room temperature for 24 to 48 hours (36 hours recommended).
- Strain the syrup through a fine mesh strainer lined with cheesecloth or a clean towel into a clean bowl or jug. Press gently to extract syrup without forcing.
- Pour the strained syrup into sterilized glass bottles or jars. Seal tightly and refrigerate. Syrup keeps up to 3 weeks refrigerated or can be frozen for longer storage.
Notes
Do not wash elderflowers with water to preserve flavor. Remove green stems to avoid bitterness. Steeping time affects flavor strength; 36 hours is ideal. Warm syrup gently if crystallization occurs. Use organic lemons for zesting to avoid bitterness. Syrup can be varied by reducing sugar, adding herbs or spices, or infusing alcohol.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 oz (30 ml)
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 23
- Carbohydrates: 23
Keywords: elderflower cordial, elderflower syrup, homemade syrup, summer drinks, cocktail mixer, lemonade syrup, floral syrup, vegan syrup, gluten-free syrup