Edible flowers for cakes, charcuterie, and more
Some flowers are not only beautiful but also edible. More and more, people are using real flowers as focal points and accents in wedding cakes, birthday cakes, charcuterie boards, and so much more! How many ways can you use edible flowers? Probably a lot more than you think!
Edible flowers can be used fresh or dried and cooked or raw. They can be infused in drinks and desserts and can even be pickled. Ideally, fresh flowers should be eaten within a few hours of picking. If you are growing your own edible blooms, be sure to wait to pick and place your flowers just before the event begins, even if you make your dessert or charcuterie board in advance. It’s best to pick them on sunny, dry days when they are in full bloom but haven’t yet begun to wilt. Much of the flower’s flavor comes from the pollen, so be gentle when washing and shaking dry. You don’t want to shake or wash off too much of the pollen.
Some of the most highly used edible flowers are pansies, lavender, and chamomile, although there are many more. Rose petals are edible, too, though not the leaves and stems. Here are some great flower flavors to try:
- Tuberous begonias are tart and crisp.
- Bee balm tastes like a citrusy Earl Grey tea.
- Chamomile has an earthy, floral flavor with apple undertones and a slightly bitter aftertaste.
- Chrysanthemum has a tangy herbal flavor with slightly bitter, grassy undertones.
- Elderflower is sweet with gentle notes of lychee and pear.
Any of these edible flowers can be used for decoration as well, of course, even if you don’t intend to eat them. Keep in mind that sourcing matters. Make sure your petaled garnishes are organically grown as edible flowers. Do not use flowers from locations that spray herbicides or pesticides, as flowers treated with any form of chemicals should not be consumed.
There are well over 20 varieties of edible flowers that can be used to surprise and delight even the most discerning taste buds. Ask our floral designers which edible flowers are in season for your next event!