Warm Elderberry Cordial
Deep, fruity elderberry cordial loosened with hot water and warmed with lemon, clove and cinnamon for a simple alcohol-free winter cup.
Ingredients
- 80 ml elderberry cordial or syrup
- 320 ml hot water
- 15 ml lemon juice — freshly squeezed
- 2 whole cloves
- 1 cinnamon stick
Method
- Pour the elderberry cordial into a small pan and add the cloves and cinnamon stick.
- Add the hot water and warm gently over a low heat, stirring to dissolve the cordial evenly.
- Let it infuse for a few minutes without boiling so the spices release their warmth.
- Stir through the lemon juice, strain into mugs and serve warm.
How to serve
- Glassware
- Heatproof mug
- Serve temperature
- Warm, around 65°C
- Garnish
- A lemon slice and cinnamon stick
Elderberry cordial keeps the colour and depth of late summer alive through the coldest months, its dark fruit flavour ideal for a warming cup. This recipe simply loosens it with hot water and rounds it out with lemon, clove and cinnamon. It is among the easiest winter warmers you can make, yet it tastes thoroughly considered.
Balancing the cordial
The right dilution makes all the difference, as cordials vary considerably in strength. Around four parts hot water to one part cordial is a sound starting point, but trust your palate and adjust from there. A squeeze of fresh lemon cuts through the sweetness and brightens the elderberry, so add it last and taste as you go.
Gentle spicing
Whole cloves and a cinnamon stick infuse cleanly and lift out easily when you strain, leaving a clear, glossy cup. Keep the pan below a simmer to protect the fruit’s character. Serve with a lemon slice and a cinnamon stick for a tidy finish. If the evening calls for something with a little more warmth, a glass of Hot Apple Gin shares the same comforting, spiced spirit.
Frequently asked questions
How much cordial should I use?
Around 80 ml to 320 ml of hot water gives a balanced cup, though cordials vary in strength. Taste and adjust the dilution to suit your preference.
Can I leave the cloves whole?
Yes. Whole cloves infuse gently and are easy to strain out, giving a cleaner finish than ground clove, which can turn the drink cloudy.
Is this drink very sweet?
Most elderberry cordials are sweetened, so the lemon juice is there to balance them. Add a little more lemon if you prefer a sharper cup.
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