Elderflower Caipirinha Cocktail Recipe
I’m a fan of the unique taste of elderflower liqueur paired with the zesty flavors of a classic Caipirinha.
For best results, I grab quality limes, a good cachaça, and just a few basic tools from my kitchen.
Equipment
- Cutting board and sharp knife: I use these to slice the lime cleanly and safely.
- Short glass (old-fashioned or rocks glass): This is the traditional glass for Caipirinhas and holds the right amount.
- Muddler: I prefer a wooden muddler to help press the limes and sugar together.
- Measuring jigger: Using a jigger keeps my drink measurements consistent.
- Bar spoon: I use this to mix the cocktail well without spilling.
- Ice: Crushed ice works best for this drink because it chills quickly.
Ingredients
- 1 lime cut into wedges
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar or use fine cane sugar for a smoother mix
- 2 ounces cachaça a Brazilian distilled spirit
- 1 ounce elderflower liqueur such as St-Germain
- Crushed ice
- Optional garnish: Lime wheel or a few edible elderflowers
Instructions
- Place the lime wedges and sugar in the bottom of the glass.
- Muddle the lime and sugar together, pressing firmly to release juices and dissolve sugar.
- Add the cachaça and elderflower liqueur.
- Fill the glass with crushed ice.
- Stir well to mix and chill all the ingredients.
- Garnish with a lime wheel or a few elderflowers, if desired.
- Serve immediately to keep the drink fresh and cool.
Notes
Ripe limes are key—they give more juice and less bitterness, at least in my experience.
Adjust the sugar to taste if you want it sweeter or more tart. If I’m out of elderflower liqueur, I’ll just make a classic Caipirinha or try another floral liqueur for fun.
This cocktail is best right after you make it, since the ice melts fast.
Crushed ice lets the flavors mingle quickly but, yeah, it’ll dilute faster too. I skip bottled lime juice—just doesn’t taste the same or as fresh.
If I want a stronger floral note, I’ll add a splash more elderflower liqueur, but too much can throw things off balance.
For bigger gatherings, I’ll prep the lime and sugar in advance, then muddle and mix each drink fresh. It’s worth the extra step.