Fresh Elderflower Sparkling Lemonade
A refreshing and easy homemade summer drink combining bright lemon juice, floral elderflower cordial, and lively sparkling water for a perfect balance of sweet and tart.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 medium-sized fresh lemons, juiced (about 1 cup / 240 ml lemon juice)
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) elderflower cordial
- 4 cups (1 liter) sparkling water, chilled
- 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar, optional and adjustable
- Ice cubes, to serve chilled
- A handful of fresh mint leaves, optional garnish
- Lemon slices, for garnish
Instructions
- Roll the lemons on the counter to loosen their juice, then cut in half and juice to extract about 1 cup (240 ml) fresh lemon juice. Strain to remove pulp and seeds if desired.
- Place the lemon juice in a large pitcher. Add granulated sugar (start with 1/4 cup or less to taste) and stir vigorously until fully dissolved.
- Pour in 1/2 cup (120 ml) elderflower cordial and stir gently to combine.
- Refrigerate the mixture for at least 20 minutes to let flavors meld.
- Add 4 cups (1 liter) chilled sparkling water to the pitcher and stir gently to mix without losing fizz.
- Add ice cubes to the pitcher or individual glasses.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves and lemon slices, then serve immediately.
Notes
Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor. Chill sparkling water before adding to keep fizz. Stir gently after adding sparkling water to preserve bubbles. Adjust sugar and elderflower cordial to taste. Mint garnish is optional and should not be muddled to avoid overpowering the floral notes. Prepare lemon, sugar, and cordial base ahead and add sparkling water just before serving to maintain fizz.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (8 ounces / 24
- Calories: 80100
- Sugar: 1922
- Carbohydrates: 2025
Keywords: elderflower lemonade, sparkling lemonade, summer drink, homemade lemonade, elderflower cordial, refreshing beverage, easy summer drink