Refreshing Elderflower Cucumber Cooler Recipe

Elderflower Cucumber Cooler Recipe – When it comes to refreshing cocktails that combine elegance, simplicity, and natural flavor, few drinks can rival the charm of the Elderflower Cucumber Cooler Recipe. This beautifully balanced beverage is a celebration of crisp cucumber, delicate elderflower liqueur, and zesty citrus, all topped with sparkling soda for an irresistibly light and floral finish.

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The Elderflower Cucumber Cooler is the epitome of sophistication in a glass — perfect for garden parties, brunches, or a relaxing summer evening. The fusion of elderflower’s subtle sweetness with cucumber’s cooling freshness makes it an ideal choice for those who appreciate refined, botanical flavors without overwhelming sweetness.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Active Time: 5 minutes

• Resting Time: 0 minutes

• Total Time: 10 minutes

• Cuisine: Modern / Contemporary

• Course: Beverage / Cocktail

• Servings: 2

• Calories: 140 kcal per serving

Ingredients

• 3 oz vodka or gin (gin enhances the floral notes)

• 1 oz elderflower liqueur (such as St-Germain)

• 1 oz freshly squeezed lime juice

• 4–5 cucumber slices

• 4 oz club soda or sparkling water

• 1 tsp simple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)

• Ice cubes

• Fresh mint leaves or cucumber ribbons for garnish

Optional Additions:

• A dash of tonic water instead of soda for a slightly bitter twist.

• A few basil leaves for herbal depth.

• A splash of white wine or prosecco for a bubbly version.

Equipment Needed

• Cocktail shaker

• Muddler

• Jigger or measuring tool

• Strainer

• Highball or Collins glasses

• Mixing spoon

• Knife and cutting board

Instructions

Step 1: Muddle the Cucumber

In a cocktail shaker, add cucumber slices. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to gently press and crush them until the juices are released. This step infuses your drink with the fresh, cooling flavor of cucumber.

Step 2: Add the Spirits and Citrus

Pour in the vodka or gin, elderflower liqueur, and freshly squeezed lime juice. If you prefer a slightly sweeter cocktail, add a teaspoon of simple syrup at this stage.

Step 3: Shake It Up

Fill the shaker with ice and shake for 15–20 seconds until everything is well mixed and chilled.

Step 4: Strain and Pour

Strain the mixture into a chilled highball or Collins glass filled with ice. Double strain using a fine mesh sieve if you prefer a smoother texture without cucumber pulp.

Step 5: Add the Fizz

Top the drink with club soda or sparkling water. Stir gently to combine, being careful not to lose the carbonation.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with a cucumber ribbon wrapped inside the glass or a sprig of fresh mint on top. Serve immediately for the ultimate refreshing experience.

Nutrition Information

 Tips for the Perfect Elderflower Cucumber Cooler

1. Choose the Right Spirit:
   Gin enhances the botanical and floral notes of the elderflower, while vodka gives a cleaner, crisper finish.

2. Keep It Cold:
   Chill your glassware before serving to maintain the drink’s cool, refreshing temperature.

3. Use Fresh Ingredients:
   Always use fresh cucumber and lime juice for the best flavor balance. Bottled juice won’t deliver the same brightness.

4. Adjust Sweetness:
   Elderflower liqueur is naturally sweet, so you might not need simple syrup. Taste before adding extra sugar.

5. Batch It for Parties:
   For large gatherings, prepare the base (without soda) in advance. Keep it chilled and top with sparkling water right before serving.

Flavor Variations

• Cucumber Mint Cooler: Add a few mint leaves while muddying the cucumber for a mojito-style twist.

• Cucumber Basil Cooler: Substitute mint with basil for a herbal, garden-inspired flavor.

• Cucumber Lemon Cooler: Use lemon juice instead of lime for a brighter, tangier variation.

• Sparkling Elderflower Cooler: Replace soda water with sparkling wine or prosecco for a celebratory version.

• Cucumber Jalapeño Cooler: Add a thin slice of jalapeño for a gentle spicy kick

Why You’ll Love This Cocktail

• Elegant and Refreshing: The floral aroma of elderflower and crisp cucumber makes it feel spa-worthy and luxurious.

• Light and Balanced: Not overly sweet or heavy — ideal for warm weather.

• Easy to Make: Requires only a few ingredients and minimal effort.

• Customizable: Adapt it to your taste by adjusting the sweetness or spirit choice.

• Visually Stunning: With its pale green hue and cucumber garnish, it’s a drink that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Conclusion

The Elderflower Cucumber Cooler Recipe is the embodiment of freshness, elegance, and simplicity. With the delicate sweetness of elderflower, the crisp coolness of cucumber, and the zesty touch of lime, it’s a cocktail that soothes and invigorates at the same time.