This is how easy it is to make a delicious syrup from elderflowers

You can make your own elderflower syrup from just three ingredients. Suitable for Hugo, desserts and – bottled in small bottles – as a gift from the kitchen.

In 2005, an aperitif was invented in South Tyrol, which then spread throughout the German-speaking world and has enjoyed great popularity ever since. And no, it's neither Limoncello Spritz nor Aperol Spritz. We're talking, of course, about Hugo, a refreshing cocktail of prosecco, elderflower syrup, mint leaves, a dash of mineral water and a slice of lime. Then, at the latest, the somewhat forgotten elderflower syrup, although it has been known for centuries as a food and remedy, came back into focus. Now, from the beginning of June to the end of July, many roam through nature in search of fragrant elderflowers, which, thanks to these tips for collecting and processing, are perfect for many treats.

Homemade elderflower syrup can be used to make a delicious, refreshing lemonade (symbolic image). © agefotostock/IMAGO

This is how easy it is to make elderflower syrup yourself:

• 12 elderflowers
• 1 organic lemon, sliced
• 1 l of water
• 1 kg of sugar

Preparation: Bring elderflowers to the boil together with lemon slices and water. Remove from heat and cover and leave to infuse for about 12 hours. Remove the elderflower and lemon slices and bring the liquid to a boil along with the sugar. Reduce heat and simmer until a honey-like syrup is obtained. Pour the syrup into sterilized bottles while still hot and seal.

Holl(under)a the forest fairy – so many names for one product!

As diverse as the application of elderflower syrup is, so numerous are the names of the white, fragrant flowers. In the north of Germany they are called "lilac berry blossoms" (although lilacs and elderberries have nothing to do with each other) and in the south elderflowers are called "elderberry blossoms".

With these tips, the elderflower syrup will be perfect

It's hard to believe, but even with few ingredients and simple preparation, a few simple steps can make a recipe even better. For the perfect elderflower syrup, you should...

• ... use elderberry flowers as fresh as possible, collected on a sunny day (this is how their aroma is most intense)
• ... use only organic lemons, as the chemical treatment of conventional citrus fruits can have a negative effect on the shelf life.
• ... Sterilize bottles so that the syrup can be kept for up to six months.
• ... store opened bottles in the refrigerator.

What can you make from elderflower syrup?

Anyone who thinks that elderflower syrup is only good for Hugo is wrong. Because the syrup is not only a refreshing drink in cocktails, sodas or iced teas, but also a versatile ingredient in the kitchen. The sweet, floral aroma goes particularly well with fruits and dairy products and can be used to refine yoghurts, ice creams and cakes. Another classic is an elderflower jelly, which can be easily made from elderflower, apple juice and jam sugar. It tastes wonderful for breakfast on bread! If that's too time-consuming for you, you can simply refine your pancakes with fresh strawberries and cream with a few drops of the delicious elderflower syrup.

Are you a foodie and always on the lookout for delicious recipe ideas?

Then sign up now for our Einfach Tasty newsletter and receive our latest creations directly in your e-mail inbox on a regular basis.

Summer is here to be enjoyed, and elderflowers are the perfect companion on this sweet adventure. What are you waiting for? Grab the basket, go out into nature and collect the enchanting elderflowers. Have fun!