Print

Refreshing Cucumber Elderflower Collins Cocktail

Cucumber Elderflower Collins Cocktail - featured image

A light, bubbly, and crisp summer cocktail combining fresh cucumber, floral elderflower liqueur, zesty lemon juice, and sparkling soda water. Perfect for warm evenings and casual get-togethers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • ยฝ medium cucumber, thinly sliced (preferably English cucumber)
  • 1.5 oz (45 ml) elderflower liqueur (St-Germain recommended)
  • 1 oz (30 ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 2 oz (60 ml) gin (botanical-forward, e.g., Hendrickโ€™s)
  • 0.5 oz (15 ml) simple syrup (homemade or store-bought)
  • 3 oz (90 ml) soda water, chilled
  • Ice cubes
  • Fresh mint sprigs (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Wash and slice about half a medium cucumber into thin rounds (around ยผ inch thick). Set aside a few slices for garnish.
  2. Place the cucumber slices in the bottom of your shaker. Using a muddler, gently press the slices about 10-12 times to release fresh cucumber juices without pulverizing.
  3. Add 1.5 oz elderflower liqueur, 2 oz gin, 1 oz fresh lemon juice, and 0.5 oz simple syrup into the shaker.
  4. Fill the shaker with ice (about 1 cup or 8 oz).
  5. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until the shaker feels cold and frosty.
  6. Fill a Collins glass with fresh ice cubes. Strain the cocktail into the glass, keeping cucumber bits out unless preferred.
  7. Top with 3 oz chilled soda water. Stir gently with a bar spoon to combine flavors without losing fizz.
  8. Garnish with a couple of cucumber slices and a sprig of fresh mint. Serve immediately.

Notes

Adjust simple syrup to balance sweetness and tartness. Use fresh lemon juice and cucumber for best flavor. Do not shake soda water to preserve carbonation. Double strain for a smoother finish if desired. Can substitute vodka for gin or elderflower cordial for a non-alcoholic version.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber cocktail, elderflower cocktail, Collins cocktail, summer drink, refreshing cocktail, gin cocktail, easy cocktail recipe