By eatmundo · July 8, 2026
🇬🇧AI-generated imageSame ingredients, elsewhere in the world
2 matchesDishes from other countries' kitchens, made from the same core ingredients as Traditional Homemade Elderflower Presse. The percentage is the share of ingredients the two recipes have in common.
Mürver Şerbeti (Elderflower Sherbet)In Türkiye · same ingredients· Same technique80%
Classic American LemonadeIn the USA · same ingredients40%
A wonderfully refreshing, naturally floral, and lightly sparkling British summer drink. Made from freshly picked elderflower blossoms, sweet sugar, and tangy lemon, it's the perfect thirst-quencher for a warm day.
According to eatmundo's ingredient comparison, the closest dish to Traditional Homemade Elderflower Presse from another cuisine is Mürver Şerbeti (Türkiye): the two share 80% of their ingredients.
Ingredients
tick what you already have - the rest goes on your shopping listHow to Make It
- 1
Begin by gently shaking your 20 fresh elderflower heads to dislodge any insects, but avoid washing them as this removes much of their delicate pollen flavour. Set them aside in a large, clean heatproof bowl.
- 2
In a saucepan, dissolve 500g of granulated sugar in 1 litre of boiling water over medium heat, stirring until the sugar has completely melted and the liquid is clear. Remove from the heat.
- 3
Add the zest and juice of 2 large lemons, along with 1 teaspoon of citric acid (if using for preservation), to the sugar syrup. Stir everything together to combine thoroughly.
- 4
Carefully pour the hot sugar syrup over the elderflower heads in the heatproof bowl, ensuring all the blossoms are submerged. Give it a gentle stir.
- 5
Cover the bowl with a clean tea towel or cling film and leave it to infuse at room temperature for 24-48 hours. This slow infusion process is key to extracting the beautiful floral notes, don't rush it!
- 6
After infusion, strain the cordial through a fine-mesh sieve lined with muslin cloth or a clean J-cloth into a clean jug, pressing gently on the elderflowers to extract all the liquid. Discard the spent elderflowers and lemon.
- 7
Pour the resulting elderflower cordial into sterilised bottles or jars. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks, or freeze in smaller portions for longer storage. When ready to serve, dilute one part cordial with 3-4 parts sparkling water, or to your preferred taste. Garnish with a slice of lemon or a fresh mint sprig.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is elderflower presse?
Elderflower presse is a non-alcoholic beverage originating from the United Kingdom. It is made by infusing elderflowers with water, sugar, lemon, and optionally citric acid. The drink is typically served chilled as a refreshing beverage, particularly during the late spring and summer months.
When is the best time to pick elderflowers?
Elderflowers are typically in bloom from late May to mid-June in the UK. Pick them on a dry, sunny morning when they are fully open and fragrant, away from busy roads.
Can I make this cordial without citric acid?
Yes, you can omit citric acid. However, it acts as a natural preservative and enhances the tartness, so the cordial will have a shorter shelf life.
How should I store the elderflower cordial?
Store the cordial in sterilised bottles in the refrigerator for 2-3 weeks. For longer storage, freeze it in smaller portions.
What else can I use elderflower cordial for?
Beyond presse, it's wonderful in cocktails, drizzled over fresh fruit or ice cream, added to gin and tonic, or used as a flavouring in cakes and jellies.
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