Learn how to make homemade Honey Elderflower Cordial with fresh elderflowers, lemons, honey, and water. This easy floral syrup is naturally sweetened and perfect for drinks, desserts, cocktails, and mocktails.
Bring the fresh flavors of spring and summer into your kitchen with this Homemade Honey Elderflower Cordial. Delicately floral elderflower blossoms are infused with fresh lemons and naturally sweetened with honey, creating a refreshing cordial that is perfect for sparkling water, iced tea, cocktails, mocktails, desserts, and more. Unlike traditional elderflower cordial recipes made with refined sugar, this version relies on honey for a smooth, rich sweetness that complements the blossoms without overpowering their delicate flavor.
Making elderflower cordial at home is surprisingly simple and is one of the best ways to preserve the fleeting beauty of fresh elderflowers. After just a few days of steeping, you will have a fragrant homemade syrup that can be enjoyed throughout the season.
Prep Time
15 minutes
Steeping Time
2 to 3 days
Total Time
2 days 15 minutes to 3 days 15 minutes
Yield
About 4 cups
1 cup fresh elderflower blossoms, blossoms removed from the stems
2 lemons, thinly sliced
2 cups honey
3¼ cups water
Step 1: Prepare the Elderflowers
Carefully inspect the elderflower blossoms and gently shake away any small insects. Remove the tiny blossoms from the thick green stems, discarding as much stem as possible since the stems can add bitterness. Place the blossoms into a large glass or ceramic bowl.
Step 2: Add the Honey and Lemons
Layer the sliced lemons over the elderflowers. Pour the honey over the blossoms and lemon slices.
Step 3: Heat the Water
In a saucepan or kettle, heat the water until it reaches a gentle simmer. Do not allow the water to boil, as boiling water can reduce the delicate floral aroma of the elderflowers.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
Slowly pour the hot water over the elderflower mixture. Stir gently with a wooden spoon until the honey has completely dissolved into the warm water.
Step 5: Steep the Cordial
Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel, cheesecloth, or another finely woven cloth. Place the bowl in a cool, dark location and allow the mixture to steep for 2 to 3 days. Taste the cordial after 2 days. If you prefer a stronger floral flavor, continue steeping for one additional day.
Step 6: Strain the Cordial
Line a fine-mesh sieve with cheesecloth and strain the cordial into a clean bowl or large measuring cup. Press gently on the blossoms and lemon slices to extract as much liquid as possible without forcing solids through the sieve.
Step 7: Bottle and Refrigerate
Pour the strained cordial into sterilized glass bottles or jars. Seal tightly and refrigerate until ready to use.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Enjoy the cordial mixed with sparkling water, still water, lemonade, iced tea, or your favorite cocktails and mocktails. It also makes a wonderful drizzle for fruit salads, yogurt, pancakes, waffles, and cakes.
Harvest elderflowers on a dry, sunny day when the blossoms are fully open for the best flavor.
Avoid washing the blossoms unless necessary, as much of their fragrance comes from the natural pollen.
Remove as much of the green stem as possible because it may create a bitter taste.
Store the cordial in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
For longer storage, freeze the cordial in freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays for convenient single servings.
This cordial also makes a beautiful homemade gift when bottled in decorative glass bottles.
Must be 21 years of age or older to purchase or consume alcoholic beverages. Please drink responsibly.
