Spring has come which means it’s finally time for flowers to bloom. Did you know that you can’t just enjoy flowers for their beauty, but some are also edible? Candied flowers are the perfect way to spruce up your spring desserts and make them almost too pretty to eat. Decorating your desserts with candied flowers and using them to add flavor takes them to the next level and adds a whimsical touch that flowers made of icing can only hope to achieve.
What Flowers Are Edible?
You’d be surprised by how many flowers are edible! If you’re uncertain, it’s always best to check whether or not a flower is edible before you candy it, as some are not recommended for people with certain health conditions and others are downright poisonous. That said, you have a wide array of options to choose from when selecting candied flowers for your spring desserts.
Some edible flowers that can be used for flavor and decoration include:
- Roses
- Lilacs
- Lavender
- Borage
- Johnny jump-ups
- Hibiscus
- Begonias
- Pansies
- Orchids
- Mums
- Dahlias
- Violets
- And more!
Flowers that have sturdier petals are better for candying, due to the fact that they are less likely to shrivel up under the weight of the egg whites and sugar. It’s important that you know the flowers you use are indeed edible and that you don’t use flowers from a florist or grocery store, as these have likely been treated with pesticides, which are not safe to eat.
Many stores will sell candied flowers, and it is also quite easy to grow your own, which is also good because you know precisely what is on your flowers. It’s crucial that you only use flowers that have been specifically grown for consumption.
Spring Desserts With Candied Flowers
Now that we’ve touched on some of the flowers that are edible, let’s dive into some candied flower dessert ideas! While you can just use your candied flowers as decoration, they can also add flavor. Different flowers have different flavors that will last for varying lengths of time. If you’re curious, it’s always a good idea to check, in order to ensure you aren’t putting a flower with a citrusy taste on something you don’t want citrusy at all!
#1. Candied Flowers
While candied flowers can be added to other desserts, you can also enjoy them on their own. It’s quite simple to candy flowers. All you need to do is brush them with egg white and then sprinkle them with sugar. Leave them to dry, and then voila! Candied flowers.
#2. Almond Fairy Cakes With Candied Rose Petals
Fairy cakes and cupcakes are often used as interchangeable terms, when they’re really not. A fairy cake is a lighter, dantier cake that tends to use glaze or fondant instead of a heavy layer of frosting. These delicate cakes topped with candied rose petals are a truly elegant dessert with just the right amount of sweetness.
#3. Lavender Shortbread
This is a classic for a reason. Lavender is lovely not only for relaxation, but also as a flavor in this rich, buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookie. Delicate, flavorful, and so very beautiful, especially when topped with candied flowers. This is a perfect spring treat.
#4. Flower Popsicles
As the weather starts heating up, it’s a great time to start making popsicles, and what better way to give them a unique spin than with edible flowers? Flower popsicles will get their flavor from whatever dried flower you use, so make sure it’s a tasty one. Not only will they taste good, but they’re simply gorgeous when they come out of the freezer too.
#5. Violet Macarons
Macarons are light and airy cookies with just the right amount of filling to give them some extra flavor without bogging them down. Macarons can be difficult to get right, but when you do, the payoff is more than worth it, especially with some candied violets enhancing the flavor experience.
#6. Lilac Almond Scones
Both lilac and almonds have mild flavors, so combined, they make for a quietly floral scone that is both simple and delicious to make. Serve with a complimentary tea for the perfect afternoon tea time dessert.
#7. Strawberry And Pansy Tarts
For something tasty and beautiful, try strawberry and pansy tarts (but then, don’t all of these desserts with candied flowers fit that bill?). The flavors of the strawberries and the pansies work well together, not to mention, a cute little tart with a candied flower on top is sure to bring the magic to your spring day.
These are but a few ideas of desserts you can make with candied flowers this spring. Kitchen Kneads can help you by providing you with the tools and ingredients needed in order to help you make whatever recipe you desire. Please don’t hesitate to reach out and contact us with any questions.
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