Discover the Beauty and Taste of Edible Flowers: Rose & Camellia Petals
Rose petals are a delightful summer treat but did you know spring Camellia flowers are not only beautiful but edible as well? While Camellia Sinensis gives us our favourite teas, varieties like Camellia Japonica bloom in gorgeous shades of pink and red, perfect for adding a floral touch to your spring treats.
One of the easiest—and most visually striking—ways to enjoy edible rose or camellia petals is by turning them into sugared petals. This simple yet elegant recipe transforms fresh flowers into delicate, crystallized garnishes that shimmer like dewdrops in the sun. Sugared Rose or Camellia petals are perfect for decorating cakes, cupcakes, fruit tarts or floating in champagne or herbal cocktails. Stir sugared petals into hot tea for flavour and sweetness or simply set them out in a pretty bowl and enjoy as a floral candy.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or want to elevate your spring and summer-inspired creations, sugared petals are a delightful and easy way to bring a little floral magic to your table!
Sugared Rose or Camellia Petals Recipe
Spring Camellia Blossoms
Sugar Camellia petals in the spring and rose petals in the summer – both make delicious edible floral decorations. Pick flowers early in the morning when their fragrance is at its peak.
INGREDIENTS:
• Fresh camellia or rose petals – organic or pesticide-free
(Or our Organic Fresh Edible Flowers)
• 1 egg white, very fresh (or aquafaba, my preference)
• 2-3 drops of pure vanilla or rose extract (optional)
• Fine berry sugar
Organic Edible Roses
Sugared Petals
HOW TO:
1. Prepare the Petals: Gently pluck the petals from the flowers, making sure to remove any dirt or insects. Choose fresh, vibrant petals as they will hold their shape better.
2. Rinse gently: Lightly rinse the petals in cool water and dry them completely on a paper towel before using.
3. Lightly Whisk the Egg White: In a small bowl, lightly whisk the egg white (or aquafaba) until it’s slightly frothy. This will help the sugar stick to the petals.
4. Coat the Petals: Using a soft brush (a small paintbrush or pastry brush works well), carefully brush a thin layer of the egg white over the surface of each petal. Be gentle to avoid tearing the delicate petals.
5. Sugar the Petals: Immediately sprinkle a thin layer of fine sugar over the egg white-coated petals. You can either sprinkle on the sugar by hand or roll the petals in a bowl of sugar, depending on your preference.
6. Dry the Petals: Lay the sugared petals flat on a piece of parchment paper or a cooling rack. Allow them to dry in a cool, dry place for at least 24 hours.
Store and Use: Once the petals are fully dried and crisp, they’re ready to use! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature, away from humidity, for up to a week. They’re fragile but keep well if protected from humidity. Use sugared petals to decorate cakes, cupcakes, cocktails, or even enjoy them as a sweet treat on their own.
Enjoy your beautiful, edible floral decorations!
Tips:
• Camellia flowers have a mild, slightly astringent taste with subtle floral notes and not as sweet as roses. If desired, add a drop of vanilla or rose extract to enhance the floral notes of the petals.
• Do not store sugared petals in the fridge as the cool temperature will cause the sugar to melt.
• If making in advance, open the container from time to time to release any moisture that may accumulate.
Creative Uses:
• Cocktails & Mocktails: Add a sugared petal to the rim of a glass or float it on top of sparkling drinks.
• Desserts: Press them gently into frosted cakes or atop whipped cream for a fairy-tale finish.
• Gifting: Package them in small glass jars with a ribbon and floral label for a lovely handmade gift.
• Tea Rituals: Serve alongside tea for a beautiful botanical pairing—or stir into tea to add flavour and sweetness.
Note: Always make sure flowers are pesticide-free and properly identified before consuming. People with allergies to certain plants or pollen should try a small amount first or consult a health practitioner before consuming edible flowers.
Come visit with us on Facebook
