BakeCalcs.uk
Cordial Dilution Calculator
Calculate cordial and water quantities based on dilution ratio and number of servings.
How We Calculate This
The calculator divides your total required volume into cordial and water based on the dilution ratio. A ratio of 1:4 means one part cordial to four parts water — so the total has 5 parts.
The Formula
- Total volume = Servings x Glass size
- Cordial = Total volume / (1 + Dilution ratio)
- Water = Total volume - Cordial
Common Ratios
- 1:3 — Strong, for intense flavours
- 1:4 — Standard for most cordials
- 1:5 — Light, suits delicate flavours
- 1:9 — Typical for high-strength squash
Frequently Asked Questions
Most cordials and squash recommend a 1:4 ratio — one part cordial to four parts water. This means for a 250ml glass, you would use 50ml of cordial and 200ml of water. Some brands recommend 1:5 or even 1:9.
In the UK, squash is a concentrated fruit drink that you dilute with water. Cordial is similar but often higher quality, made with more real fruit juice and sugar. Squash is typically diluted at a higher ratio (1:5 or 1:9) because it is more concentrated.
For a two-hour event, plan for 2-3 glasses per person. Using the calculator, enter the total number of servings you need and it will work out the cordial and water quantities. A 500ml bottle of cordial typically makes about 2.5 litres of diluted drink.
Yes, adjust the dilution ratio to suit your taste. A 1:3 ratio gives a stronger drink, while 1:5 or higher gives a lighter one. The calculator supports custom ratios so you can match your preference exactly.
Most UK cordials recommend a 1:4 or 1:5 ratio (one part cordial to four or five parts water). However, this varies by brand and personal preference. Elderflower cordial is typically 1:10 as it is very concentrated. Taste and adjust — the recommended ratio is a starting point, not a rule.
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Last updated: February 2026
All calculations are based on standard ratios and conversions. Results may vary with specific ingredients, equipment, and conditions.