St-Germain substitutes
St-Germain substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Elderflower cordial
Same amount as the St-Germain
Non-alcoholic elderflower syrup with similar floral flavor.
The best substitutes for St-Germain are elderflower cordial, elderflower syrup, or Crème de Violette depending on the recipe.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- cocktails
Updated 19 Aug 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of St-Germain | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Elderflower cordialcocktails | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Elderflower syrupcocktails | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Crème de violettecocktails | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 4 | Crème de cassiscocktails | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Elderflower tea + simple syrupcocktails | Same amountWith equal parts elderflower tea and simple syrupWorks | Works |
| 6 | Rose water + simple syrupcocktails | Same amountWith 1 tsp rose water per ¼ cup simple syrupTweak it | Tweak it |
Elderflower cordial
similar taste and texture
Non-alcoholic elderflower syrup with similar floral flavor.
- Best for
- cocktails, non-alcoholic drinks, desserts, baking
No alcohol content. Add vodka or gin if alcohol is needed.
Elderflower syrup
similar taste and texture
Sweet elderflower syrup with similar floral flavor.
- Best for
- cocktails, desserts, baking, beverages
Similar flavor but no alcohol. Good for most applications.
Crème de violette
different taste, similar texture
Violet liqueur with similar floral flavor and alcohol content.
- Best for
- cocktails, desserts, baking, aperitifs
Different flower but similar floral profile. May have purple color.
Crème de cassis
different taste, similar texture
Blackcurrant liqueur with similar sweetness and alcohol content.
- Best for
- cocktails, desserts, baking, aperitifs
Different flavor but similar sweetness. Will change color to purple/red.
Elderflower tea + simple syrup
similar taste and texture
Make elderflower tea and mix with simple syrup.
- Best for
- cocktails, desserts, baking, beverages
Brew strong elderflower tea and mix with simple syrup. No alcohol content.
Rose water + simple syrup
different taste, similar texture
Mix rose water with simple syrup for floral flavor.
- Best for
- cocktails, desserts, baking, beverages
Different floral flavor but similar sweetness. Use sparingly as rose water is strong.
Questions
4 questionsWhat's the difference between St-Germain and elderflower cordial?
St-Germain is an alcoholic elderflower liqueur, while elderflower cordial is a non-alcoholic syrup. Both have similar floral flavor but different alcohol content.
Can I use elderflower syrup instead of St-Germain?
Yes, elderflower syrup works as a substitute, though it has no alcohol content. Add vodka or gin if alcohol is needed for the recipe.
Is St-Germain the same as elderflower liqueur?
St-Germain is a brand of elderflower liqueur. Other elderflower liqueurs can be used as substitutes with similar results.
Can I make St-Germain at home?
You can make elderflower liqueur at home by infusing vodka with elderflowers and adding sugar, but it won't have the exact same flavor as St-Germain.
Tips for substituting St-Germain
8 tips- St-Germain is good for adding floral notes to cocktails
- Great for making elderflower cocktails and aperitifs
- Use in desserts for delicate floral flavor
- St-Germain pairs well with gin, champagne, and white wine
- Store in a cool, dark place to preserve flavor
- St-Germain adds elegance to simple cocktails
- Good for making elderflower martinis and spritzes
- Great for adding to fruit salads and desserts