Ever taken a sip of something so light, so floral, it felt like spring bloomed in your glass? That’s exactly what this Hugo Spritz recipe delivers—bright, fizzy refreshment in under 3 minutes flat. It started for us on the first sunny Saturday of the season, with my best friend unpacking a bottle of bubbly water and a jar of elderflower syrup onto our porch table. Mint, lime, ice, done. That first sip? Like sunshine in a glass. It’s been our go-to ever since for spring brunches, lazy Sundays, and any excuse to unwind on the porch.
Let’s make your new favorite sip together.
Table of Contents
Hugo Spritz Ingredients You’ll Always Keep Handy
You don’t need a fancy bar setup for this Hugo Spritz recipe—just five simple ingredients you might already have in your kitchen. Think crisp, floral, and oh-so-refreshing. Every element plays a role, and when they come together? Pure porch magic.
The Role of Elderflower Syrup in the Recipe
Elderflower syrup is the secret star here. It brings a delicate sweetness and that signature floral note that makes every Hugo sparkle. If you’ve never used it before, think of it like honey’s fancy cousin—sweet but fragrant, perfect for light, fizzy drinks. A little goes a long way.
Fresh Add-Ins That Brighten Every Sip
Mint leaves and fresh lime juice bring a zesty lift to every glass. Mint cools, lime adds tang, and when paired with chilled sparkling water? Instant refreshment. Don’t skip the ice either—it keeps things crisp and balances the flavors just right.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 tablespoons elderflower syrup
- 1/2 lime, sliced or juiced
- 6–8 fresh mint leaves
- 3/4 cup sparkling water (chilled)
- Ice cubes (as many as you like)
Optional: a lime wheel or sprig of mint for that fancy brunch feel
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Hugo Spritz Recipe: How To Make It In 3 Minutes
- Total Time: 3 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This refreshing Hugo Spritz is fizzy, floral, and ready in just 3 minutes—perfect for spring brunches or lazy porch afternoons.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons elderflower syrup
1/2 lime, sliced or juiced
6–8 fresh mint leaves
3/4 cup sparkling water (chilled)
Ice cubes
Instructions
Fill a glass with ice cubes.
Pour in the elderflower syrup.
Squeeze in lime juice and drop the squeezed lime into the glass.
Add fresh mint leaves, gently bruised.
Top with sparkling water, stir lightly, and enjoy.
Notes
For an extra twist, garnish with a lime wheel or extra mint.
Try flavored sparkling water like lemon or lime for a different vibe.
Perfect for outdoor gatherings or non-alcoholic happy hours.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 minute
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Stirred
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
How To Make This Hugo Spritz Recipe In 5 Easy Steps
This Hugo Spritz recipe is as easy as stirring lemonade—no blender, shaker, or bar tools needed. Just layer, pour, swirl, and sip. If you can fill a glass, you’ve already nailed step one.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Hugo Perfection
- Fill a glass with ice cubes.
- Pour in the elderflower syrup.
- Squeeze in lime juice and drop the squeezed lime into the glass.
- Add fresh mint leaves, gently bruised.
- Top with sparkling water, stir lightly, and enjoy.
Serving Tips for Backyard Vibes or Brunch
Want to impress your brunch crew? Garnish with a lime wheel or a full mint sprig on top. Serving outdoors? Use crushed ice and chilled glasses for an extra cool-down. And kids love this too—just skip the glass and use a mason jar with a straw.
Tips, Swaps, and Seasonal Variations
One of the best things about this Hugo Spritz recipe? It’s a total chameleon. Whether you’re missing an ingredient or want to give it a festive twist, you’ve got options—and they’re all delicious.
Easy Ingredient Substitutions for Every Pantry
- No elderflower syrup? Try lavender syrup or even a splash of pear juice.
- Out of fresh mint? Basil or lemon balm work beautifully.
- Sparkling water swaps: Use plain seltzer, club soda, or a citrus-flavored bubbly.
Fun Seasonal Twists for Fall or Summer
- Summer Refresh: Add a few sliced strawberries or cucumber rounds.
- Fall Vibes: Muddle a thin slice of fresh ginger with the lime.
- Holiday Sparkle: Rim the glass with sugar and lime zest for a festive finish.
You can even batch it in a pitcher. Just mix everything but the sparkling water ahead of time, and top each glass to serve.
Hugo Spritz Recipe FAQs
What are the ingredients of a Hugo Spritz?
A Hugo Spritz typically includes elderflower syrup, fresh lime, mint leaves, sparkling water, and ice. These ingredients combine to create a light, floral, and bubbly refreshment.
What is the ratio for Hugo?
The basic Hugo Spritz ratio is 1 part elderflower syrup to 3–4 parts sparkling water, plus lime and mint to taste.
What is the difference between a Hugo Spritz and an Aperol Spritz?
A Hugo Spritz is floral and citrusy, made with elderflower syrup and mint, while an Aperol Spritz is more bitter and orange-forward.
How do you make a Hugo Spritz without gin?
This version skips gin altogether. Elderflower syrup, sparkling water, lime, and mint are all you need.
How to make Hugo at home?
To make Hugo at home, combine elderflower syrup, lime juice, fresh mint, and sparkling water over ice. Stir gently and enjoy immediately.
Final Sip: Why You’ll Keep Reaching for This Hugo Spritz Recipe
This Hugo Spritz recipe isn’t just quick—it’s pure sunshine in a glass. Whether you’re hosting brunch, winding down on the porch, or just craving something light and bubbly, this five-step refresher brings joy to any moment. With floral notes from elderflower, cool mint, and a little sparkle from your favorite bubbly water, it’s become one of our most-loved rituals around here.
Refresh your summer drink menu with light drinks ideas and simple preparation tips that make every sip easy and enjoyable.
Tag me if you try it—I cheer for every kitchen win.
Lightened up, but never short on flavor.
