You want something light, cooling, and subtly floral. The Cucumber Elderflower Cooler offers crisp freshness and gentle sweetness, making it ideal for warm days when you want refreshment without heaviness.
Equipment
To prepare a Cucumber Elderflower Cooler, you’ll need the following tools to ensure a clean, smooth, and refreshing result:
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Cocktail shaker: For gently mixing and chilling ingredients.
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Muddler: To release fresh cucumber juice and aroma.
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Jigger or measuring cup: For precise balance of flavors.
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Strainer: Ensures a smooth, pulp-free pour.
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Highball glass: Perfect for showcasing the drink’s clarity.
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Ice cubes: Essential for a crisp, cooling finish.
Ingredients
Each ingredient plays a distinct role in shaping the cocktail’s elegant profile:
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1.5 oz gin or vodka: A clean base spirit—gin adds botanicals, vodka keeps it ultra-light.
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1 oz elderflower liqueur (St-Germain): Soft floral sweetness and aromatic depth.
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0.75 oz fresh lime or lemon juice: Bright acidity to balance sweetness.
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3–4 fresh cucumber slices: Cooling freshness and natural hydration notes.
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Soda water: Adds lift and a refreshing sparkle.
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Ice cubes: Keeps the drink crisp and cold.
Optional garnish: a cucumber ribbon, mint sprig, or edible flower for an elegant touch.
Instructions
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Add cucumber slices to a cocktail shaker and gently muddle to release juice and aroma.
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Add gin (or vodka), elderflower liqueur, citrus juice, and ice.
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Shake gently—just enough to chill without bruising flavors.
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Strain into a highball glass filled with fresh ice.
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Top with soda water.
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Garnish with cucumber, mint, or floral accents.
Tasting Notes
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Aroma: Fresh cucumber with soft floral undertones
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Color: Pale green, crystal clear, and elegant
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Taste: Light floral sweetness balanced by bright citrus
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Mouthfeel: Crisp, clean, and delicately fizzy
Similar Cocktails
If you enjoy the Cucumber Elderflower Cooler, you may also love:
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Elderflower Collins: Floral, citrus-forward, and lightly sparkling
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Cucumber Gin Tonic: Clean, herbal, and ultra-refreshing
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Hugo Spritz: Elderflower liqueur with prosecco and soda
History
The Cucumber Elderflower Cooler is a contemporary cocktail inspired by European summer traditions, particularly garden aperitifs and spa-style drinks. Elderflower liqueur gained popularity in modern mixology for its delicate aroma, while cucumber has long been associated with freshness and hydration. Together, they form a cocktail that reflects modern tastes: light, botanical, and refreshingly understated.
Quick Pro Tips
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Use fresh cucumber: Old or bitter cucumber can overpower the drink.
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Muddle gently: Press, don’t crush, to avoid vegetal bitterness.
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Serve immediately: This cocktail shines when ice-cold and freshly made.
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Experiment: Add a splash of tonic or a basil leaf for variation.
When to Serve
The Cucumber Elderflower Cooler is perfect for:
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Brunches and afternoon gatherings
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Garden parties and outdoor events
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Warm-weather celebrations and summer evenings
