Love elderflower? You'll enjoy these recipes
What's the story
Elderflower, with its delicate floral fragrance and subtle sweetness, is a versatile ingredient that can take any summer gathering up a notch. Be it a garden party or a casual get-together, adding elderflower to your menu can give it a refreshing twist. From beverages to desserts, these recipes bring out the unique taste of elderflower and are sure to wow your guests. Check them out!
Refreshing drink
Elderflower lemonade delight
Elderflower lemonade is perfect for quenching thirst on hot summer days. For this drink, mix fresh lemon juice with elderflower cordial and water. Add sugar to taste and stir until it dissolves. Serve over ice with slices of lemon and mint leaves as garnish. This drink provides a balance of tartness from the lemons and floral notes from the elderflowers, making it refreshing yet flavorful.
Cool treat
Elderflower sorbet sensation
Elderflower sorbet is the perfect light dessert option that embodies summer. Start by mixing water, sugar and elderflower cordial in a saucepan until the sugar dissolves completely. Let it cool before adding lemon juice for an extra zing. Freeze the mixture in an ice cream maker as per instructions, or pour into a shallow dish to freeze manually, stirring occasionally until set.
Fruity mix
Elderflower berry salad
A berry salad laced with elderflower dressing is an interesting side dish or dessert to serve at get-togethers. Just mix strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries in a bowl. For dressing, whisk together honey or agave syrup with elderflower cordial. Drizzle over berries just before serving so they are fresh but flavorful throughout your event.
Sweet indulgence
Elderflower cake creation
An elderflower cake adds an element of elegance to any summer gathering. You can start with layers of vanilla sponge, adding roughly two tablespoons of a concentrated syrup on each layer. The syrup is made by boiling water, sugar, and elderflowers. Top with whipped cream frosting, lightly flavored with the same elderflower syrup for a subtle touch. This cake makes a perfect centerpiece or a delightful accompaniment to tea/coffee breaks.
Tasty Preserve
Elderberry jam spread
Making homemade jam using ripe berries and elderflowers makes for a delicious spread as well as a great gift idea. Simply simmer equal parts fruit and sugar on low heat, stirring to prevent sticking. Strain out solids for a smooth consistency. Once jarred, it's ready to be enjoyed or shared as a sweet, naturally sourced treat.