This Sparkling Cucumber and Elderflower Cooler is a lightly sweetened, refreshing beverage perfect for warm weather.
Made with fresh cucumber juice and fragrant elderflower syrup, the drink is sparkling and hydrating, ideal for outdoor events or a relaxing afternoon.
It combines natural flavors for a crisp, slightly floral, and bubbly refreshment that’s easy to make at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh cucumber juice provides a cool, crisp base that is both hydrating and flavorful.
- Elderflower syrup adds a delicate floral sweetness that complements the cucumber’s freshness without overpowering it.
- Using sparkling water creates a bubbly, refreshing texture making this an ideal cold beverage on warm days.
Sparkling Cucumber and Elderflower Cooler
A refreshing sparkling beverage combining fresh cucumber juice, elderflower syrup, and sparkling water, perfect for warm weather or gatherings.
- Prep time
- 15 minutes
- Cook time
- 0 minutes
- Servings
- 4
- Yield
- 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, peeled and chopped (about 4 cups/960 ml)
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) elderflower syrup
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 cups (480 ml) sparkling water, chilled
- Ice cubes
- Cucumber slices and lemon wedges, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Make the cucumber juice Place the peeled and chopped cucumbers into a blender and blend until smooth. Place a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth over a bowl and strain the cucumber puree to extract the juice. Dispose of the solids or save for another use.
- Mix the cooler In a pitcher, combine the fresh cucumber juice, elderflower syrup, and fresh lemon juice. Stir well to combine.
- Serve Add ice cubes to four serving glasses. Pour the cucumber elderflower mixture evenly into the glasses, filling each about two-thirds full. Top each with chilled sparkling water to fill.
- Garnish and enjoy Gently stir each glass once to combine. Garnish with cucumber slices and lemon wedges if desired. Serve immediately for best freshness and flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Choose firm cucumbers with minimal seeds for a smoother juice and less bitterness.
- Elderflower syrup can be found in specialty stores or online; substitute with elderflower cordial if needed.
- Keep the beverage refrigerated and serve chilled for maximum refreshment.
- Wash cucumbers thoroughly before peeling and blending.
- Use a sturdy blender to extract smooth cucumber juice.
Storage and Make-Ahead
Store any leftover cucumber elderflower mixture (before adding sparkling water or ice) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Sparkling water should be added just before serving to maintain fizziness.
Do not store the prepared drink with ice as it will dilute the flavor.
Discard any leftover drink after 24 hours for best safety and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cucumber elderflower cooler without sparkling water?
Yes, you can use still water or chilled soda water, but the sparkling water provides the characteristic bubbly texture of this cooler.
Is elderflower syrup allergenic?
Elderflower syrup is generally safe for most people but check the label for any added allergens. People with floral allergies should exercise caution.
How do I prepare fresh cucumber juice without a juicer?
Blend peeled chopped cucumbers in a blender, then strain the pulp through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to extract the juice.
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