Elderflower Pimm’s Cup Cocktail Recipe

ByJohn

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

Elderflower Pimm’s Cup Cocktail Recipe

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 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Serving Size 1

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.

    Must Have Ingredients

    Substitute

    Sometimes I run out of elderflower liqueur, or maybe I just want to mix things up a bit. There are a few good substitutes that still keep the drink tasty and refreshing.

    If I don’t have elderflower liqueur, I use:

    • St. Germain syrup or another elderflower-flavored syrup.
    • Lemon or orange liqueur for a bit of a citrus twist.
    • Homemade elderflower cordial, if I’ve got some on hand.

    If I need to swap the fruit or herbs, I choose:

    To switch the mixer, I sometimes use:

    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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