Elderflower Cooler with Ginger Beer Cocktail Recipe

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ByJohn

A refreshing cocktail can make any gathering more enjoyable. Honestly, I love sharing recipes that are easy to make at home.

My Elderflower Cooler with Ginger Beer cocktail is light, floral, and has just the right amount of spicy kick. It’s a drink that feels fancy, but only takes a few simple steps and ingredients to prepare.

This recipe uses elderflower liqueur for a delicate sweetness. Ginger beer brings in that fizzy, bold flavor that keeps everyone coming back for another round.

I find it’s always a crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for warm afternoons or casual evening get-togethers.

If you’re looking to try something new for your next happy hour, I think you’ll appreciate how quick and straightforward this cocktail is to mix.

Elderflower Cooler with Ginger Beer Cocktail Recipe

Elderflower Cooler With Ginger Beer Cocktail Recipe

Elderflower Cooler with Ginger Beer Cocktail Recipe
I like how the Elderflower Cooler with Ginger Beer balances sweet, floral, and spicy flavors. Using simple equipment and fresh ingredients makes this cocktail easy to prepare at home.
John
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Serving Size 1

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 2 oz elderflower liqueur such as St-Germain
  • 1.5 oz gin London dry gin works well
  • 0.5 oz fresh lime juice
  • Ginger beer to top, about 3–4 oz
  • Ice cubes enough to fill the glass
  • Fresh mint sprig for garnish
  • Lime wheel or slice for garnish

Instructions

  • Fill a tall glass with ice cubes.
  • In a cocktail shaker, add the gin, elderflower liqueur, and fresh lime juice.
  • Shake well for about 10 seconds to mix and chill.
  • Strain the mixture into the glass over the ice.
  • Top with ginger beer to fill the glass (about 3–4 oz).
  • Stir gently with a bar spoon to combine without losing the fizz.
  • Garnish with a fresh mint sprig and a lime wheel or slice.
  • I serve the drink right away while it’s cold and sparkling.

Notes

I sometimes adjust the gin and elderflower liqueur amounts for a stronger or lighter taste. For less sweetness, I use extra lime juice or choose a less sweet ginger beer.
If I’m making drinks for a group, I mix the first three ingredients ahead and add ginger beer just before serving.
For a non-alcoholic version, I replace the gin and elderflower liqueur with elderflower syrup and a little club soda. I always serve this cocktail in a tall glass, so there’s enough room for ice and garnish.
This recipe works well for both small and large gatherings.

Tasting Notes

When I sip the Elderflower Cooler with Ginger Beer, the first thing I notice is the fresh, floral aroma. The scent of elderflower stands out, with a hint of citrus in the background.

On my palate, I taste a balance of sweet and tart flavors. The elderflower adds a light, honey-like sweetness.

Ginger beer brings a gentle spice and a bit of warmth. The cocktail feels crisp and refreshing.

I notice the bubbles from the ginger beer give it a lively, sparkling finish. Each sip leaves a clean taste, making it easy to drink.

Flavor Highlights:

  • Sweetness: Light and floral
  • Spice: Mild ginger
  • Acidity: Soft, not overpowering

After a few sips, I still taste a light floral flavor, followed by gentle ginger. It never feels heavy or too sweet.

This makes it nice for a summer day or when I want something easygoing.

Must Have Ingredients

Substitute

Sometimes I run out of elderflower liqueur or ginger beer.
When this happens, I use other ingredients with similar flavors.

Equipment:

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz substitute for elderflower liqueur
  • 3 oz ginger beer or substitute
  • 0.5 oz fresh lime or substitute
  • Ice
  • Fresh herbs or citrus wheels for garnish

Instructions:

  • Add ice to the glass.
  • Pour in the elderflower substitute, citrus juice, and top with the ginger beer or soda.
  • Stir gently.
  • Garnish with herbs or citrus, if available.

If I use elderflower syrup, I usually add a splash of club soda.
Syrup is much sweeter than liqueur, honestly.

Pear juice is a milder option and not as floral.
Still, it’s got a similar body and mouthfeel, so it works in a pinch.

When I don’t have ginger beer, ginger ale makes the drink lighter and less spicy.
Lemon-lime soda is also fine if that’s what I have in the fridge—no shame in that.

Hey there, I’m John Watson—a guy who’s spent over 20 years proving that a good drink can fix just about anything (well, almost anything). Whether it’s cocktails that wow or mocktails that mock boredom, I’m all about crafting sips with stories. Founder of ThirstyTales and full-time drink nerd, I’m here to help you shake things up, one glass at a time. Let’s mix, laugh, and maybe spill a little—cheers to the adventure!

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