- Can I use alcohol-free cider?
- Of course, or even cloudy apple juice diluted with soda water if making for children.
- It turned out too sweet.
- Sugar content of cordials varies. Always taste, and adjust balance by diluting with lemon juice or soda water.
Elderflower & lemon cider spritz
This drink is the meeting of Anglo-Saxon cider culture and Central European elderflower cordial tradition. The fermented apple base of cider carries the volatile aromas of elderflower excellently, whilst the acidity of lemon 'cuts' the sweetness, making the sip crisp and refreshing. Ideal summer cooler, where carbonation bubbles help release fragrances.
Ingredients
500
ml
Apple cider (dry or semi-dry)
50
ml
Freshly squeezed lemon juice
50
ml
Elderflower cordial
2
slices
Lemon round (garnish)
1
handful
Ice cubes
1
sprig
Fresh mint or lemon balm (optional)
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- Large jug
- Stirring spoon
- Chopping board and knife
Allergen Information
Sulphites (may be present in cider)
Instructions
1
✓
Fill glasses with ice.
Tip: Ice cools the glass, keeping the drink fresh longer.
2
✓
In a jug, mix the lemon juice and elderflower cordial.
Tip: This is the 'syrup base'. If you mix this first, it distributes easier in the carbonated cider without needing much stirring (which would knock out the fizz).
3
✓
Top up with cold cider and gently fold over.
Tip: Carefully only! Carbonation is the carrier of freshness, don't stir it out.
4
✓
Pour the drink into icy glasses and garnish with lemon.
Tip: Garnish is not just visual: lemon zest scent is the first impression when drinking.
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 500 ml Apple cider (dry or semi-dry)
- 50 ml Freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 50 ml Elderflower cordial
- 2 slices Lemon round (garnish)
- 1 handful Ice cubes
- 1 sprig Fresh mint or lemon balm (optional)