I came across elderflower in many forms (juice, liqueur, perfume, lotion, candles, etc.) when I studied abroad in Copenhagen last year. Since then, I cannot get enough of its floral flavor. Elderflowers grow on a bush native to the United Kingdom and France and are described as “sweet” and “honey-scented.” It’s what you’d imagine a floral perfume to taste like but in the best way possible.
Elderflower can make any drink a delight, so I gathered two of my favorite recipes that uses it. Let’s hope it becomes more widely available in the United States. Who knows? Maybe elderflower might become the next new trend.
Cucumber Elderflower Gimlet
Ingredients: (for 1 serving)
– 1 part elderflower liqueur (like St. Germain or St. Elder)
– 1 part gin
– 1 part lemon (or lime) juice
– A few slices of cucumber (set one aside for garnish)
Steps:
1. Fill a shaker with ice, pour all the ingredients in, and give it a good shake.
2. Pour into your glass of choice, garnish, and enjoy.
Elderflower Mojito
Ingredients: (for 1 serving)
– 1 part rum
– 1 part elderflower liqueur
– 1 part lime juice
– 1 part simple syrup
– Fresh mint leaves
Steps:
1. Muddle mint leaves with simple syrup.
2. Mix in all of the other ingredients.
3. Pour over ice and enjoy!