How to Make Elderflower Tea: A Light, Floral Herbal Infusion
Delicate, fragrant, and naturally refreshing, elderflower tea has been enjoyed for centuries. Unlike elderberries, which are simmered, elderflowers are gently steeped to preserve their subtle floral flavor and aroma.
Whether served warm on a cool evening or poured over ice on a hot summer afternoon, elderflower tea is a beautiful addition to any herbal tea collection.
Note: This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
What Does Elderflower Tea Taste Like?
Elderflower has a light, delicate flavor that many people describe as:
- Floral
- Slightly sweet
- Honey-like
- Lightly fruity
- With hints of pear and citrus
Because of its mild taste, elderflower blends beautifully with many other herbs and fruits.
Basic Elderflower Tea Recipe
Ingredients
- 1–2 teaspoons dried elderflowers
- 8–10 ounces freshly boiled water
- Honey, if desired
- Lemon slice (optional)
Directions
- Place the dried elderflowers into a tea infuser or teapot.
- Pour freshly boiled water over the flowers.
- Cover and steep for 5–10 minutes.
- Strain if necessary.
- Sweeten with honey or add a squeeze of fresh lemon if desired.
- Enjoy warm.
Turn It Into Iced Tea
Elderflower also makes a wonderfully refreshing iced tea.
Simply brew a stronger batch by doubling the amount of elderflowers, allow it to cool, then pour over ice.
Try garnishing with:
- Lemon slices
- Lime wedges
- Fresh strawberries
- Blueberries
- Mint leaves
- Cucumber slices
Delicious Herbal Tea Blends
Elderflower pairs wonderfully with many herbs, including:
Relaxing Blend
- Elderflower
- Chamomile
- Lemon balm
Garden Blend
- Elderflower
- Lavender
- Rose petals
Citrus Blend
- Elderflower
- Lemon peel
- Orange peel
Refreshing Summer Blend
- Elderflower
- Peppermint
- Lemon verbena
Berry Blend
- Elderflower
- Hibiscus
- Rose hips
Harvesting Elderflowers
If you're growing your own elder shrubs, harvest the flower clusters on a dry morning after the dew has evaporated.
Choose blossoms that are fully open but still fresh and creamy white. Dry them in a warm, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight before storing them in airtight containers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to simmer elderflowers?
No. Elderflowers are delicate and should be steeped like most herbal teas. Simmering can diminish their delicate flavor.
Can I mix elderflowers with green or black tea?
Absolutely. Their light floral flavor complements both traditional teas and herbal blends.
Can I drink elderflower tea cold?
Yes. It makes an excellent iced tea and can even be mixed with sparkling water for a refreshing botanical beverage.
Final Thoughts
Elderflower tea is simple to prepare, wonderfully aromatic, and endlessly versatile. Whether enjoyed on its own or blended with your favorite herbs, it's an easy way to bring a touch of the garden into your teacup.
If you've only tried elderberries, don't overlook the flowers. They offer an entirely different flavor and a whole new world of herbal recipes to explore.
Explore Related Products
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Dried Elderberry
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