In Bloom: The Danish Tradition of Elderflowers and How to Make Your Own Cordial

Hyldeblomster (Elderflowers) have long held a special place in Danish folklore. Elder trees were believed to be home to Hyldemor, the Elder Mother, a protective spirit who watched over the tree. People treated elder trees with great respect, believing they offered protection from evil and misfortune, while the blossoms and berries were valued in traditional folk medicine.

Today, elderflowers are beloved for a different reason: they’re delicious. Blooming from early June through July, they’re used to make a fragrant, refreshing cordial and can be found growing wild in woods, fields, and parks—in Iowa, often abundantly along roadside ditches. If harvesting from ditches, pick flowers farther from the road to avoid pollutants. Later in the season, the berries can be used to make jams, jellies, and cordial.

Hyldeblomst Saft – Elderflower Cordial

Makes approximately 2 quarts

Ingredients

• 40 elderflower sprigs
• 4 lemons, sliced
• 4 pounds granulated sugar
• 3 ounces food-grade citric acid (optional)
• 2 quarts boiling water

Directions

1. Shake the flower heads to remove insects, then rinse gently.
2. Place the flowers in a large bowl or pot.
3. Layer the lemon slices over the flowers.
4. Add the sugar and citric acid, then pour over the boiling water.
5. Let cool, then refrigerate for 3–4 days, stirring occasionally.
6. Strain through a fine sieve, then through cheesecloth if you prefer a clearer syrup.
7. Pour into sterilized bottles or jars and refrigerate.

Though it takes a few days to prepare, the result is well worth the wait. Dilute the cordial with still or sparkling water, add it to cocktails or sparkling wine, or drizzle it over blended ice or vanilla ice cream for a taste of summer. You can even add to hot water or tea for a hyggelig drink on a cold day.