How to Make Elderflower Blossom Syrup

A sweet, floral taste of spring in a bottle.

There’s something so enchanting about elderflowers. Their delicate, creamy-white blooms seem to float like lace in the spring air, filling the countryside with a soft, subtle fragrance. For centuries, elderflowers have been gathered not just for their beauty, but for their gentle, floral flavor—captured perfectly in a simple syrup.

Elderflower syrup is a lovely way to preserve a bit of spring’s magic. Drizzled over cakes, swirled into sparkling water, or added to cocktails, it brings a light, floral sweetness to anything it touches.

Here’s how to make your own.

🌿 What You’ll Need:

20–30 fresh elderflower heads (picked on a dry, sunny day)
4 cups water
4 cups granulated sugar
2 organic lemons (sliced)
Optional: 1 tablespoon citric acid (for longer shelf life)

🍋 How to Make Elderflower Syrup:

1. Gently Clean the Flowers
Shake the elderflower heads to remove any insects. Avoid washing them as you’ll lose their precious pollen (which holds much of the flavor).

2. Prepare the Syrup Base
In a large pot, bring the water and sugar to a gentle boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat.

3. Add Elderflowers & Lemon
Submerge the elderflower heads and lemon slices into the syrup. Cover and let steep for 24–48 hours at room temperature.

4. Strain & Bottle
Strain the syrup through a fine mesh sieve or muslin cloth to remove flowers and lemon. Pour into sterilized bottles or jars.

5. Store & Enjoy
Keep refrigerated and use within a few weeks. For longer storage, add citric acid before bottling.

✨ Ways to Use Elderflower Syrup:

Mix with sparkling water & lemon for a refreshing elderflower spritz
Drizzle over pancakes, waffles, or vanilla ice cream
Stir into cocktails like gin & tonics or champagne
Add to herbal teas for a sweet floral twist
Use as a simple syrup in baking glazes or dressings

Final Thought
Elderflower syrup is a beautiful way to slow down and savor the season. It captures the fleeting bloom of spring in a way that feels both timeless and special.

If you make your own, I’d love to see! Tag me @dwelingco and share how you’re using this sweet little bottle of spring.