When I’m craving something refreshing that feels a bit fancy but doesn’t take a ton of effort, I’ll whip up an Elderflower Pimm’s Cup. This cocktail blends the floral notes of elderflower with the classic Pimm’s Cup for a light, bright twist.

The ingredients are simple, and the process isn’t fussy at all. It’s my go-to for picnics, sunny afternoons, or honestly, just when I want to mix things up.

Let me walk you through what I use, the gear I reach for, and every step to make my Elderflower Pimm’s Cup.

Elderflower Pimm’s Cup Cocktail Recipe

This drink uses Pimm’s No. 1, elderflower liqueur, fresh fruit, cucumbers, and sparkling lemonade. The result? A cocktail that’s light, refreshing, and honestly, just a bit special.

John

Prep Time 5

Total Time 5

Serving Size

Equipment

Tall glass (Pint or Highball): I like to build and serve the cocktail in a tall glass.
Measuring jigger: Makes it easy to get the Pimm’s and elderflower liqueur just right.
Bar spoon or stirrer: For mixing everything together gently.

Knife and cutting board: Needed to slice up the fruit and cucumber.
Ice: Cubes or crushed—whatever I’m feeling that day.
Strainer (optional): Only if I decide to shake the ingredients first, which is rare.

Ingredients

2 oz Pimm’s No. 1
1 oz Elderflower liqueur St-Germain works great
4 oz sparkling lemonade make sure it’s chilled
2-3 slices cucumber
1-2 sliced strawberries
1 slice orange or lemon
Fresh mint sprig for garnish
Ice enough to fill glass

This makes one cocktail. If I’m making a few, I just double or triple everything, keeping the same ratios.

Instructions

Fill a tall glass right to the top with ice.
Add cucumber slices, strawberry slices, and a citrus slice to the glass.

Pour in the Pimm’s No. 1 and elderflower liqueur.
Slowly top with sparkling lemonade, letting it flow over the ice and fruit.
Give it a gentle stir with a bar spoon—nothing too crazy.

Pop a fresh mint sprig on top.
Serve immediately, straw optional (I usually skip it).

If I want to make a big batch, I mix everything except the lemonade and ice in a pitcher.

Notes

The traditional Pimm’s Cup uses lemon-lime soda or ginger ale, but I think elderflower liqueur and sparkling lemonade bring out something extra. I always reach for fresh fruit—anything mushy just ruins the vibe and taste.

If I want more bubbles, sometimes I’ll use club soda and throw in a little simple syrup. Elderflower liqueur can be strong, so I adjust it for friends who want a lighter drink. I’ll toss in raspberries or apple slices if I have them. For a less sweet version, I cut back on the lemonade or add more sparkling water. I always taste and tweak before serving. Why not?

Tasting Notes

The first sip? It’s bright and super refreshing. The elderflower gives it a gentle, floral sweetness that’s noticeable but doesn’t steal the show.

Cucumber and mint bring a cool, crisp bite. I love how these flavors make the drink feel so light—perfect for a hot day.

Pimm’s adds a mild herbal bitterness. It plays nicely with the citrus and berries, and I get a good balance of sweet and tangy.

Texture and Mouthfeel:

Light and bubbly thanks to the lemonade
Smooth, with that icy chill
Fresh on the tongue—not heavy at all

Every sip is a mix of floral, citrus, and a little herbal something. The aftertaste? Clean, and honestly, it makes me want another sip almost immediately.

Elderflower Pimm’s Cup Cocktail Recipe