When you want to transform a classic recipe, leaning into different flavors is a great way to do it. Elderflower gives the tequila classic a sweet, floral aroma that’s unexpectedly delicious.
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About this Elderflower Margarita recipe
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: I love a good margarita. They’re versatile, refreshing and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
The other great thing about margaritas is that they are easy to make. Once you’ve mastered the classic margarita recipe, the variations come together just as quickly. The Elderflower Margarita uses your traditional ingredients, with the addition of elderflower syrup for a floral twist.
This margarita is easy to elevate, making it a great option for entertaining — or even just for an at-home happy hour. Since elderflower isn’t a common flavor, it is unexpected in all the best ways and is sure to leave everyone talking.
Why you’ll love this recipe
- It’s an elegant add to a favorite recipe. Elderflower elevates a drink with light floral notes that feel fancy.
- Simple to make. You don’t have to be an experienced bartender to craft this tasty sip.
- Works for a crowd. You can batch the recipe for an upcoming event to make things easier when entertaining.
Ingredients & essentials
👇 For full measurements and step-by-step instructions, scroll down to the printable recipe card. It’s all there waiting for you!
Most margaritas include a citrus, a sweetener and, of course, tequila! It’s a winning combination that hits all the right notes.
The citrus in this stunner is lime juice, like in the classic margarita. I prefer fresh-squeezed lime juice because I think it gives you more flavor in your drink. I’ve found that the store-bought stuff can end up being a bit bitter.
Elderflower syrup adds a touch of sweetness along with floral aroma. You can use either dried or fresh flowers to craft your syrup — there’s a reason it’s called simple syrup!
In terms of tequila, you can use what’s in your bar or pick up a new bottle. My recommendation is that you use the best bottle you can afford — higher quality booze really does taste better!
Don’t miss Tequila 101 where you can learn more about which bottles to buy.
Best tequila for margaritas
Tequila stars in so many margarita recipes, thanks to its versatility! The spirit is made from the Blue Weber Agave plant in Mexico. Since it is clear and colorless, blanco tequila (or silver tequila) works really well in this recipe.
As always, you can use your favorite tequila into these margs. There are a few types of tequila that I detail in my Tequila 101 crash course.
For a more upscale marg, draw inspiration from the Cadillac margarita and use reposado tequila, which gets its name from the word for ‘rested’ in Spanish because it is aged in oak barrels for between two months and one year. The aging process gives it some of the oak’s coloration and flavor, though additional coloring and flavoring are sometimes added.
Instructions
Any prep instructions before people begin + general recipe overview paragraph.
- First, prep your flowers. Wash them (for fresh) and measure them out. Add them to a saucepan with cold water.
- Bring the elderflowers and cold water to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 20 minutes.
Store your syrup properly. Use a food-safe, airtight container for up to 3 weeks. If it ever appears cloudy, it’s time to toss it.
- Strain your liquid and measure it. Then, add an equal amount of sugar and stir until dissolved. Let cool before using.
- Rim your glass with salt (or sugar). Measure the tequila, syrup and lime juice into a cocktail shaker * filled with ice.
- Shake well until chilled, about 15 seconds, then strain into your glass over ice.
- Garnish with a lime slice and a sprig of elderflower.
Tips & tricks
- Fresh is best. Store-bought lime juice can be a bit bitter, so I prefer fresh-squeezed for my cocktails.
- Chill out. Let the simple syrup cool completely before storing to prevents condensation in the container, which can dilute the syrup and shorten its shelf life.
- Taste test. Recipes are subjective, so taste your drink as you go and add more syrup to fit your tastes.
Serving suggestions
For a more formal event — think bridal showers, wedding showers or a classy dinner party — reserve some of your elderflowers and make flower ice cubes. They’re simple to make but elevate your final drink in the best way. Everyone is always so impressed when I make these!
Consider your occasion as you craft the menu. Margaritas go hand-in-hand with chips and salsa, but that won’t work for every event. If you’re hosting a more formal event, try something like shishito peppers or edamame hummus. They’re still easy, so you won’t be stuck in the kitchen, but feel more fancy.
If you have leftover elderflower syrup, you can use it in other cocktails or make elderflower lemonade. You can also drizzle it over ice cream, pancakes or waffles for a delicate floral addition, or swap it into any other recipes that call for simple syrup.
FAQ
If you store your syrup correctly, you can store it for up to one month. Use an airtight container and keep it in the fridge. You’ll want to discard if any cloudiness or discoloring occurs.
You can certainly make these for a crowd! Multiply the recipe to make enough for your invite list. They’d be perfect for a wedding or bridal shower!
Leave a comment or tap the ★★★★★ below to leave a rating — it helps others and supports our work. We love hearing how it turned out!
Elderflower Margarita
ingredients
Elderflower Syrup
- 6 tablespoons dried elderflowers or 20 clusters fresh elderflowers, stems removed
- 1½ cups water
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
Elderflower Margarita
- 2 ounces blanco tequila
- 1 ounce elderflower syrup see notes
- 1 ounce fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons coarse sugar for the rim
- 1 slice lime for garnish
- 1 sprig fresh elderflowers for garnish
instructions
Elderflower Syrup
- If using fresh elderflowers, wash and pat dry.6 tablespoons dried elderflowers
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar and water. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then remove from heat.1½ cups granulated sugar, 1½ cups water
- Let the syrup cool for 5 to 10 minutes, until it reaches about 160 to 170°F (71 to 77°C).
- Add the elderflower clusters. Cover and let steep for at least 30 minutes, or until the syrup has cooled to room temperature.
- Place a fine-mesh strainer * over a large bowl and strain the syrup, discarding the spent flowers.
- Let cool completely before using.
Elderflower Margarita
- Rim a rocks glass * with sugar (or salt, if you prefer).2 tablespoons coarse sugar
- Add the tequila, elderflower syrup and lime juice to a cocktail shaker * filled with ice.2 ounces blanco tequila, 1 ounce fresh lime juice, 1 ounce elderflower syrup
- Shake until well chilled, about 15 seconds.
- Strain into the prepared glass over fresh ice and garnish with a lime slice and elderflower sprig.1 slice lime, 1 sprig fresh elderflowers
notes
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