Ginger Elderflower Smash Cocktail Recipe

When I’m craving something light and really refreshing, I find myself reaching for a Ginger Elderflower Smash. This cocktail has that spicy ginger kick mixed with sweet, floral elderflower—it’s crisp, a little fancy, and honestly just easy to sip.

It’s kind of my go-to for summer afternoons or, honestly, whenever I want a drink that feels a bit special without being a hassle.

I really like how the bright flavors come together fast, no complicated steps or weird ingredients needed.

You don’t need any bartender magic to pull this off at home.

Let’s get into what you need and how I usually throw this drink together.

Ginger Elderflower Smash Cocktail Recipe

This drink blends the sharp, herbal bite of gin with elderflower’s floral notes and a pop of fresh lemon.

It’s simple, bright, and just interesting enough to make any day feel a little more fun.

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker: I use this to mix and chill everything fast.
• Muddler or wooden spoon: For smashing the mint leaves and getting those oils out.
• Bar spoon: Handy for stirring, especially if the flavors need a tweak.
• Strainer: To keep out the leafy bits and seeds.
• Jigger or measuring spoons: I try to measure, otherwise the balance can get weird.
• Rocks glass: I like this drink over ice in a short glass.
• Ice: Cubes or crushed, whatever’s handy.

Ingredients

• 2 oz gin: I usually go with a classic London Dry for that crispness.
• 1 oz elderflower liqueur or elderflower cordial: Sweet and floral—this makes the drink.
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice: Has to be fresh, trust me, it’s worth it.
• 1/2 oz simple syrup: I play with the amount depending on my mood or how tart the lemons are.
• 5-6 fresh mint leaves: These give it a cool, fresh lift.
• Ice: Enough for both the shaker and the glass.
• Lemon wedges or lemon peel (for garnish): Adds some brightness and a bit of flair.
• Extra mint sprig (for garnish): Makes it look and smell even better.

Instructions

• Toss the mint leaves and simple syrup into your shaker, then muddle gently so you don’t shred the mint to bits.
• Pour in the gin, elderflower liqueur (or cordial), and lemon juice.
• Add ice to the shaker and give it a good shake—about 10 to 15 seconds, just until it’s chilled.
• Strain everything into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
• Top it off with a mint sprig and either a lemon twist or a wedge.

Notes

Fresh mint and lemon juice make a huge difference—don’t skip them.

Elderflower liqueur gives the drink a sweet, floral vibe, but if you want to skip the booze, elderflower cordial is a solid stand-in.

Sometimes I swap in bourbon for gin if I’m in the mood for something deeper, but I leave the rest of the recipe alone.

I always taste before serving and tweak the simple syrup or lemon juice if it needs it.

If you don’t have a muddler, just use the end of a wooden spoon. Crushed ice looks pretty cool in the glass, too.

Tasting Notes

When I take a sip of the Ginger Elderflower Smash, the first thing that hits me is that delicate, floral note from the elderflower liqueur.

It’s got this vibe, almost like springtime—soft and honestly kind of soothing on the tongue.

Then the ginger sneaks in with a gentle warmth.

It’s not super spicy or anything, but there’s just enough of a tingle to keep things interesting.

I really like how the ginger and elderflower play together here.

Neither one tries to steal the show; they just sort of mingle in a way that feels balanced.

The fresh lime juice jumps out, too.

It brings in this bright, zesty kick that makes the drink feel extra refreshing.

There’s a touch of sweetness, a bit of tang, and a crisp finish that, honestly, makes me want to go back for another sip.

If I’m in the mood, I’ll add a splash of club soda.

The bubbles add a fun lightness, and somehow the flavors pop even more.

Key flavors I notice:

• Soft elderflower sweetness
• Warm ginger spice
• Crisp lime tartness
• Refreshing bubbles (with soda)

It never feels heavy to me.

Cool, lively, and honestly just easy to drink.