Citrus Elderflower Sparkler Cocktail Recipe
This cocktail is all about that zingy citrus, sweet floral elderflower, and a hit of bubbles. You really don’t need much to make it, and it’s easy to tweak if you want to play around with flavors.
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker or just a jar with a lid
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Citrus juicer or reamer
- Jigger or measuring spoons
- Highball glass or stemless wine glass
- Bar spoon or, honestly, any spoon for stirring
- Ice cubes
Ingredients
- 1 ½ oz 45 ml elderflower liqueur (like St-Germain—so good)
- 1 oz 30 ml vodka
- 2 oz 60 ml fresh orange juice
- 1 oz 30 ml fresh lemon juice
- ½ oz 15 ml simple syrup (add more or less, up to you)
- 2-3 oz 60–90 ml sparkling water or club soda
- Fresh citrus slices lemon, lime, or orange for garnish
- Mint leaves for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Fill your shaker with ice cubes.
- Add elderflower liqueur, vodka (if you’re using it), orange juice, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Give it a good shake for about 10 seconds—just enough to chill everything.
- Put fresh ice in your glass and strain the mix over it.
- Top up with sparkling water or club soda.
- Stir gently—don’t kill those bubbles.
Notes
I’m picky about the sweet-tart balance, so I’ll taste and adjust the syrup before serving. If I want it lighter, I just leave out the vodka and stick with elderflower liqueur.
Want it alcohol-free? Ditch the vodka and swap the elderflower liqueur for elderflower cordial. For parties, I’ll mix the juices and liqueur ahead in a pitcher, then add ice and sparkling water right before serving. Don’t skimp on the ice—cold is key.