Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Step 1: Make optional winter syrup
- In a small saucepan, combine water, honey, cinnamon stick, cloves, and orange zest.
- Warm gently 2–3 minutes (do not boil).
- Remove from heat and let steep 10 minutes.
- Strain and cool completely.
Step 2: Build the botanical base
- In a shaker, combine:
- Elderflower cordial
- Lemon juice
- Orange juice
- Optional winter syrup or honey
- Orange blossom water
- Add ice and shake vigorously for 8–10 seconds.
Step 3: Strain & pour
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass filled with fresh ice.
Step 4: Add sparkling finish
- Top with sparkling water or botanical tonic.
- Stir gently.
Step 5: Garnish
- Add a lemon twist, citrus wheel, edible flower, or fresh thyme for a stunning winter aesthetic.
Notes
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Elderflower mixture (without sparkling water) keeps 3–4 days in the fridge. ❄️ Optional winter syrup lasts 2 weeks refrigerated. Always add sparkling water immediately before serving for best fizz.🥄 Variations
Frosted Berry Elderflower TwistAdd 2 tablespoons muddled cranberries or raspberries before shaking. Herbal Winter Blossom
Add a tiny sprig of rosemary or thyme to the shaker for infused botanical flavor. Citrus Glow Version
Increase orange juice for a sunshine-forward flavor. Ginger Snowfall
Replace sparkling water with chilled ginger beer for warmth. Lavender Elderflower Sparkle
Add 1–2 drops lavender extract for floral luxury.
❓ 10 FAQs
Can I make this sweeter?Add more elderflower cordial or honey. Can I make it tarter?
Increase the lemon juice for a crisp edge. Can I batch this for parties?
Yes — mix everything except sparkling water; add fizz when serving. Do I have to shake it?
Shaking blends citrus and floral elements smoothly, but stirring works too. Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh is best, especially in citrus-based drinks. What glass works best?
Coupes look elegant; rocks glasses feel cozy and wintery. Is elderflower cordial very sweet?
Yes — adjust honey accordingly. Can kids drink this?
Absolutely — it's fully non-alcoholic. Can I make it warm?
Yes — gently heat all ingredients except sparkling water; top with warm sparkling water substitute like plain hot water. What if I don’t have orange blossom water?
Skip it or replace with a tiny splash of vanilla.
