A sweet, tart and floral Elderflower Cordial recipe bursting with fresh flavor. This cordial recipe is super easy to make and versatile in its uses.
Jump to:
What is a Cordial?
If you go on a search to learn more about cordials, you're likely to find yourself a bit confused about just what they are exactly. Some sources will consider them a syrup or liqueur, others—a water, soft drink or alcoholic beverage. So what is a cordial exactly? Traditionally, a cordial itself is a non-alcoholic syrup of sorts that is used to flavor both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages alike. It is concentrated in flavor and versatile in its uses.
Where to Find Fresh Elderflowers
Here is an excellent article from my friend Colleen over on Grow Forage Cook Ferment all about identifying and foraging for elderflower.
Otherwise, sometimes you can find fresh elderflowers being sold at farmers markets and also online. One my favorite places to order fresh edible flowers from online is Gourmet Sweet Botanicals.
How-to Make
Step 1: Combine ingredients. 
Step 2: Cover and let sit. 
Step 3: Strain. 
Step 4: Store. 
Step 5: Enjoy!
How to Use Elderflower Cordial
You can use elderflower cordial just as you would a flavored syrup. You can mix with sparkling water or liquor and serve over ice, you can drizzle it over pancakes or ice cream, you can make a salad vinaigrette by mixing it with olive oil or you can mix it with water or milk and then freeze in popsicles molds for a refreshing treat. The possibilities are endless!
Storing
You can pour the strained, cooled cordial into any lidded vessel of your choice and then keep it stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 months (and possible longer). It is highly acidic, so it stores well. So long as the cordial doesn't have any off putting smells, it is likely just fine!
Ingredient Substitutions
Honey: If you are vegan or prefer a different sweetener, you can certainly use something different. Agave syrup, maple syrup, coconut sugar, cane sugar..it all works in this recipe.
Citric Acid: Use 3 tablespoons of vinegar of choice in place of the two tablespoons of citric acid, if need be.
More Delicious Plant Powered Drink Recipes
Elderflower Cordial
Equipment
Ingredients
- ½ cup honey we like to use raw, unfiltered
- 2 cups boiling water heat on stovetop or water kettle, etc.
- 1 fresh lemon sliced
- 2 tablespoons citric acid
- 10 medium fresh elderflowers heads make sure the stems aren't attached as they are toxic!
Instructions
- In a large pot or mixing bowl add the honey and boiling water. Stir until the honey dissolves.
- Add lemon, citric acid and elderflower heads. Give a good stir and then cover.
- Let it sit for at least 4 hours (or up to 2 days).
- Strain the cordial and let it cool to room temperature before storing in the fridge for up to two months.
Michelle says
Such an easy recipe to make; I substituted with granulated sugar since I didn't have honey on hand and it turned out great!
Kristen says
I'm so happy to hear that! Thank you for sharing. 🙂
Sharon says
What a unique way to use elderflower for a drink! I love the idea of using flowers in cooking.
Cathleen says
This is one of the most beautiful recipes I have seen all day! Bookmarked to make this weekend, thank you so much for the recipe 🙂
Kristen says
That means a ton! Thank you! 🙂
Andrea says
Learned something, cordial does not mean alcohol and how easy it is to make. Can't wait to try this and make some Popsicles with it.
Kristen says
Thank you so much! 🙂
Mairead says
Elderflower cordial is extremely popular in Ireland. Thanks for a great recipe. I love to make elderberry cordial also.
Kristen says
Very neat! Thank you so much! 🙂
Jacqueline Meldrum says
I love elderflower cordial but never thought of making my own. Thanks for the recipe and inspiration.
Tara says
This elderflower cordial looks amazing! I love how easily it comes together and such wonderful flavors. Yum!
Kristen says
Thank you so much!!
Diana Reis says
So yummy, and so nice to have something a bit different.
AISilva says
I've never made cordial before, but this elderflower cordial recipe looks so good, I can't wait to try it. Thank you!
Kristen says
Thank you!!