Lime Cordial

Bar Prep • syrup
Lime Cordial
Type: syrup Difficulty: easy Yield: About 700 mL (≈24 fl oz) Shelf life: 14 days Views: 1

Description

A bright, sweetened concentrated lime syrup (cordial) for cocktails and soft drinks. Fresh lime juice and zest are combined with a simple sugar syrup to produce a preserveable, ready-to-use lime concentrate that brightens sours, daiquiris, gimlets and non-alcoholic beverages.

History

Lime cordials and sweetened citrus concentrates have long been used to preserve citrus flavor for use in beverages. Commercial lime cordials (e.g., Rose's) date from the 19th century; at-home versions follow the same principle of sweetening and lightly heat-treating juice to extend shelf life and stabilize flavor.

Instructions

Step 1.
1) Sanitize: Sterilize a bottle or jar by boiling it in water for 5 minutes or running it through a dishwasher on high heat. Let it dry. 2) Zest and juice: Zest 6–8 limes (about 2 tbsp / 12–15 g zest) and then juice enough limes to yield 2 cups (480 mL) fresh lime juice. Strain juice to remove seeds and excess pulp if desired. 3) Make syrup: In a small saucepan combine 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar and 1 cup (240 mL) water. Heat gently, stirring, until the sugar is fully dissolved. Bring to a very gentle simmer for 1–2 minutes (do not vigorously boil). 4) Infuse zest: Add the lime zest to the hot syrup, remove from heat, and let steep for 10–15 minutes to extract aromatic oils. 5) Combine and adjust: Strain out the zest and return the syrup to a clean container. Stir in the 2 cups (480 mL) fresh lime juice. Taste and, if desired, add up to 1–2 tbsp additional sugar (or simple syrup) to reach your preferred sweetness. Optional: dissolve 1/2 tsp citric acid (for tartness/preservation) and a pinch of salt to round flavors. 6) Cool and bottle: Allow the cordial to cool to room temperature, transfer to the sterilized bottle or jar, seal tightly, and refrigerate. 7) Use: Shake before using. Typical cocktail usage is 15–30 mL (1/2–1 fl oz) per drink depending on recipe and taste. For longer storage, freeze in ice cube trays and thaw as needed.

Storage

Keep refrigerated in an airtight, sterilized bottle. Store in the coldest part of the fridge and use within 10–14 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions (ice cube tray) for several months. Adding citric acid and using sanitized containers can extend shelf life slightly.

Quick Info

Views: 1
Created: 2026-01-13 04:07:51
Updated: 2026-01-14 08:39:54