Edible Flower Cookies

If you’re on the hunt for a cookie recipe that’s a bit out of the ordinary, you’ve hit the jackpot. These edible flower shortbread cookies are as easy to make as they are beautiful. They’re perfect for when you want to impress at a get-together or just enjoy a little baking project at home. Whether it’s for Easter, Mother’s Day, a vegan tea party, or a casual Saturday, these cookies will make your day a whole lot brighter.

Imagine the delight at your next cookie party when you serve these flower cookies alongside other favorites like Mexican wedding cookies, gingersnap cookies, vegan Florentine cookies. Or perhaps envision hosting a vegan tea party, pairing the cookies with a fresh spritzer or basil water for a refreshing experience. And if you’re looking for thoughtful gift ideas, what could be more perfect than these edible flower cookies accompanied by a jar of homemade vegan hot chocolate mix?

The joy of baking comes alive with this recipe, elevating the simple act of pulling a batch of homemade cookies from the oven to an art form. With just a few basic ingredients and the vibrant touch of edible flowers, you’ll create treats that are a feast for both the palate and the eyes. Gather your baking gear and let’s make these unique shortbread cookies with edible flowers that promise to be a hit at any occasion!

Why You Should Try This Edible Flower Cookies Recipe

Diving into this edible flower cookies recipe is more than just baking—it’s about creating moments and memories. It offers the perfect blend of simplicity and elegance. This recipe adds a special touch to any occasion without any extra fuss.

Here are a few compelling reasons why you’ll love making these cookies:

• They’re conversation starters: Edible flowers on cookies are not something you see every day. They’re bound to get people talking and admiring your work.
• Customizable: Whether it’s a sprinkle of lavender or a rose petal garnish, you can choose the flowers you love or those that complement the event you’re baking for.
• Vegan-friendly: This recipe is completely plant-based, with a flower on top!
• No fancy equipment needed: With ingredients you likely have in your pantry and no need for specialized baking tools, these cookies are accessible to any home baker.
• A learning experience: Working with edible flowers is a great way to learn more about these unique ingredients and how to use them in cooking.
• Perfect for gifts: Packaged nicely, these cookies make for thoughtful and beautiful homemade gifts.
• Fun to make with kids: This is a great recipe for little hands to help with, especially when it comes to decorating with flowers.

Ingredient Notes

Sometimes it’s the simplest ingredients that come together to create something truly extraordinary. In this edible flower cookies shortbread recipe, each component plays a pivotal role in creating unique and beautiful cookies.

• All-purpose flour: The foundation of this cookie, all-purpose flour provides the structure. It ensures they hold their shape and offer that classic shortbread texture. This type of flour works best but you can try an all-purpose gluten-free flour mix if needed.
• Vegan butter: This gives the shortbread that melt-in-your-mouth quality and rich flavor, all while keeping the recipe plant-based.
• Granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the delicate floral notes of the cookies.
• Almond milk (or your plant milk of choice): A touch of plant milk binds the dough and adds a hint of its own subtle flavor. Almond milk brings a slight nuttiness, but any plant milk will do.
• Salt: A pinch of salt is the magic that balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors in the cookie.
• Edible flowers: The star of the show, edible flowers make these cookies visually stunning. They also add a lovely floral taste.
• Icing sugar for dusting (optional): A light dusting of icing sugar can add an extra layer of sweetness. A snow-dusted look really makes the colors of the petals pop.

What Are Edible Flowers And How Do I Find Them?

Edible flowers are more than just garnishes. They are the blossoms from various plants that are safe to eat and can elevate both the flavor profile and presentation of your dishes.

Not all flowers are edible, so it’s important to choose varieties that are grown for consumption and free from pesticides and other chemicals. These can include familiar picks like violets and marigolds, as well as unexpected choices such as lavender and hibiscus. Each has its own distinct flavor notes ranging from sweet to tangy.

When looking for edible flowers, your best bet is to check out local organic markets or specialty food stores. Another reliable option is to order from reputable online suppliers who can provide a wide range of edible flowers. If you’re up for it, growing your edible flowers can be rewarding. This gives you control over the growing conditions and ensures a supply of fresh blooms whenever you need them.

Edible flowers, while robust in color and flavor, are inherently delicate and their freshness is fleeting. To extend their shelf life, store them in the refrigerator in a way that avoids moisture build-up, which can lead to wilting. Follow these tips to keep your edible flowers fresh:

• Paper Towel Storage Method: Place a layer of paper towels at the bottom of an airtight container. Arrange the flowers in a single layer on the paper towel. If stacking flowers, separate layers with additional paper towels. The paper towels will absorb any excess moisture, keeping the flowers dry.
• Loosely Cover: If you’re using a container, don’t seal it tightly. Instead, cover it loosely with plastic wrap or a lid that allows some air circulation. This helps to prevent condensation from forming inside the container.
• Refrigerate Properly: Place the container in a part of the refrigerator that maintains a consistent temperature and is not too cold. The crisper drawer can be a good spot, as it’s designed to store produce at optimal humidity levels.

If you’ve picked or purchased more than you need, consider drying or freezing some varieties, as they can retain their color and flavor, perfect for infusions or future baking projects.

How To Make These Edible Flower Cookies

Making these edible flower cookies is simple and decorating them at the end is the literal icing on top!

Step One: Preheat oven to 300F or 149C. While it’s warming up, grab a cookie sheet and line it with some baking paper. This will help your cookies come off the tray easily once they’re baked.

Step Two: In a medium-sized bowl, drop in your vegan butter and sugar. Now, it’s time to get creamy! Use electric beaters or a whisk to mix these until you have a fluffy and well-combined mixture.

Step Three: Add your all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt to your fluffy butter-sugar mix. Stir everything together until it’s just combined. Go ahead and shape your dough into a ball.

Step Four: Dust a clean work surface with a little dusting of flour to keep things from sticking. Do the same with your rolling pin. Then, roll out your shortbread dough until it’s about 1/3 inch (or nearly 1 centimeter) thick.

Step Five: Now it’s time to get creative! Use cookie cutters to cut your dough into whatever shapes you like. Transfer each cutout gently onto your lined cookie sheet.

Make the Most of Your Dough: Gather up any dough scraps, re-roll them, and continue cutting out cookies until all the dough is used up.

Step Six: Pour a bit of plant milk into a small glass. Dip a pastry brush in it and lightly brush the top of each cookie. This is the glue for your edible flowers. Press the flowers onto some of the cookies, leaving some plain if you want to dust them with icing sugar later.

Step Seven: Slide your cookie sheet into the oven and bake for about 45 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’ve turned a lovely light golden brown. Take them out and let them cool for a few minutes on the sheet before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely.

The Final Flourish: If you left some cookies plain, now’s the time to give them a little sparkle with a dusting of icing sugar.

Troubleshooting, Helpful Tips And Serving Suggestions

Baking with edible flowers brings a blend of artistry and flavor to your kitchen. These helpful tips and serving suggestions are designed to ensure your edible flower shortbread cookies are as enjoyable to make as they are to eat. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at something new, these pointers will guide you toward creating beautiful, delicious cookies that everyone will admire.

• If Your Dough Is Too Cumbly: If your dough feels too crumbly and isn’t coming together, it might be a bit dry. Gradually add a teaspoon of plant milk at a time, mixing after each addition, until the dough reaches a pliable consistency that holds together well when pinched.
• Chill the Dough: If your dough becomes too soft or warm while working with it, don’t hesitate to chill it in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes. This will make it easier to handle, help set the shape, and prevent spreading.
• Pick the Right Flowers: Opt for edible flowers that are not only pretty but have flavors that complement the sweet, buttery shortbread. Lavender, rose petals, and pansies are all excellent choices. Always ensure they’re free from pesticides and safe for consumption.
• Serve Them For Tea Time: These cookies are a perfect match for afternoon tea. Serve them with a selection of teas that complement their floral notes, like chamomile or Earl Grey.
• Make The Perfect Gift: Packaged in a pretty box or tin, these cookies make a thoughtful homemade gift for friends, family, or neighbors.
• Design A Dessert Platter: Create a colorful dessert platter by mixing these cookies with other treats. Include a variety of flavors and textures for a visually appealing and delicious display.
• Make Unique Ice Cream Sandwiches: For a summery treat, use these cookies to make mini ice cream sandwiches. Choose a light flavor like vanilla or lemon to complement the floral notes.

FAQs

Print

Easy Edible Flower Cookies

These edible flower cookies are a beautiful, sweet treat for Easter, Mother's Day, a Baby Shower or "just because" This recipe makes delicate, melt-in-your mouth shortbread cookies, with the added “wow” factor of edible flowers. It's sure to impress at special occasions!

Course Dessert

Cuisine Amercan

Keyword baking with flowers, edible flower cookies, flower cookies, flower shortbread cookies

Prep Time 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time 45 minutes minutes

Total Time 1 hour hour 5 minutes minutes

Servings 12 cookies

Calories 366kcal

Author Rachel Steenland

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour plus extra for dusting
• ½ cup vegan butter, cut into small cubes 4 ounces or 113 grams
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon almond milk or your plant milk of choice
• 1 pinch salt
• handful edible flowers washed and stems removed
• Icing sugar, for dusting optional

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 300F / 149C, and line a cookie sheet with baking paper.
• Put vegan butter and sugar into a medium size bowl, and cream together, using electric beaters or whisk, until well combined and fluffy.
• Add flour and salt to the bowl, and mix until combined. Form into a ball.
• Lightly dust a clean surface and rolling pin with flour. Place shortbread dough onto the surface and roll out until about 1/3 inch (nearly 1 centimeter) thick.
• Using cookie cutter/s, cut shortbread dough into desired shapes and transfer to prepared cookie sheet.
• Collect shortbread off cuts, and then repeat Steps 4-5 until all shortbread dough has been used.
• Add plant milk to a small glass. Lightly wet a pastry brush with plant milk and wipe over the top of the shortbread cookies. Top cookies with edible flowers. Lightly pressing down so the flowers adhere to the surface of the dough (If desired, press edible flowers into 3/4 of the cookies and leave 1/4 of the cookies plain to be dusted with icing sugar after baking).
• Bake for 45 minutes or until the cookies turn a light golden brown. Allow to sit for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool.
• Lightly dust plain shortbread cookies with a little icing sugar.

Notes

• These shortbread cookies may be stored in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
• Freezing Option: This unbaked dough can be frozen for up to 3 months, offering flexibility for future baking. Just wrap it well in cling film and then in foil. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before proceeding with the recipe.

Nutrition

Calories: 366kcal | Carbohydrates: 37g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 23g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g | Monounsaturated Fat: 11g | Sodium: 283mg | Potassium: 46mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 13g | Vitamin A: 1016IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 18mg | Iron: 1mg

This edible flower cookies recipe and cookie photos are from The Garden Party by Rachel Steenland.

The post Edible Flower Cookies appeared first on World of Vegan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a diet based on plants the same as a vegan one?

A plant-based diet does not mean you have to eat vegan. A plant-based eating plan is one that focuses on whole grains, fruits, vegetables and legumes. This eating pattern typically eliminates or dramatically reduces the consumption of animal products such as meat or dairy, but small amounts of animal proteins may be included. On the other hand, veganism is an ethical lifestyle choice that involves following a completely plant-based diet and avoiding things like clothing or cosmetics made with animal products. While vegans might choose to eat a plant-based diet, these are two distinct concepts.

What are some fantastic sources of protein that can be found in a plant-based lifestyle?

Some excellent sources of protein on a plant-based diet include legumes such as beans, lentils, and chickpeas; soy products like tofu and tempeh; grains such as quinoa and teff; nuts such as almonds, walnuts, and cashews; seeds such as pumpkin and sunflower; and green leafy vegetables like spinach, kale, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts. Many of these plant-based proteins provide fiber in addition to essential micronutrients like vitamins and minerals. A plant-based diet may include omega-3 fatty oils such as flaxseeds (chia seeds), walnuts, hemp seeds and chia seed.

How much meat is OK on a plant-based diet?

No amount of meat is permissible on a plant-based diet. This lifestyle does away with all animal products like meat, fish, chicken, and eggs. Many vegan substitutes offer the same flavor without using animal products. Tofu, seitan (wheat flour), tempeh, fermented soybeans, and mock duck made of mushrooms can all mimic traditional meat dishes. Vegetarian burgers made of black beans and/or quinoa can be as good as beef burgers. Coconut bacon strips or eggplant bacon bits, tofu mayo and veggie hot dog made with seasoned-textured soy proteins are other tasty vegan alternatives. These options are ideal for anyone looking to change to a plant based diet.

Are you looking to lose weight?

Yes, it is possible to lose weight by eating a plant-based diet. It is possible to get enough volume from eating a variety fruit and vegetable, legumes, fruits, nuts, seeds, and other protein-rich plants without adding any extra calories. A well-rounded vegan meal plan is usually low in saturated fat and cholesterol-containing foods like red meat and processed snacks that tend to add weight instead of take it away. Research also shows that following a plant based diet may increase metabolism and lower the risk factors for obesity like inflammation. Eating healthy foods rich in fiber and avoiding starches, sugars, white bread, and pasta can further help weight loss and provide essential vitamins and minerals that the body needs to be healthy.

Is it easy to change to a plant-based diet

While it can seem intimidating to transition to a vegan diet, it doesn’t have to be. It is possible to gradually transition to a plant-based diet and make tweaks that feel doable. Each person's individual needs mean that the transition should be tailored to their lifestyle. To make it easier, you can arrange meals around whole foods instead of processed items. This will allow for adequate intake of both macronutrients and essential vitamins and mineral. It is also beneficial to focus on creating healthy, delicious meals that meet your dietary needs.

Individuals can make it easier to stay focused on their goals of a transition to a plant-based diet by creating a support network made up of family members, friends, and certified health professionals. Cooking new recipes can bring excitement and variety to the journey. Plenty of delicious vegan options exist so that no one feels deprived or bored when making this dietary change. A successful journey to plant-based living can be achieved by slowly changing your diet while paying attention to your daily nutrient intake.

Statistics

• According to research published, going plant-based can cut grocery bills by $750 a year per person, Journal of Hunger & Environmental Nutrition. (forksoverknives.com)
• In fact, according to research published in the going plant-based can cut grocery bills by $750 a year per person, Journal of Hunger & Environmental Nutrition. (forksoverknives.com)

External Links

[TAG22]

• Weight Loss


• Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Plant-Based Diets

[TAG25]

• Diabetes

[TAG27]

• Plant-Based Diets for Personal, Population, and Planetary Health - ScienceDirect

[TAG29]

• The Effects of Plant-Based Diets On Weight Status: A Systematic Review by PMC


• For healthcare professionals, plant-based nutrition: Implementing diet as a primary mode of treatment and prevention of chronic diseases - PMC

How To

How do I meal prep for a plant based diet?

Plant-based meal prepping prepares nutritious and balanced vegan meals ahead of time to make cooking streamlined and efficient. It takes planning and preparation but can help you save time and encourage healthier eating habits. It makes it easier to stick with your diet by prepping plant-based meals. They are already prepared and ready for when you want something delicious and healthy. Also, you can save time and make it easier to exercise or relax by not having the food prepared from scratch each day.

It is important to prioritize variety and focus on whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables and nuts. This will make it easier to prepare plant-based meals. To get more nutrition, choose different ingredients every week. Choose spinach for greens; purple carrots to orange/reds; brown rice for complex carbohydrates. In each meal, a balanced amount of fiber, protein, as well as some fats, should be the goal. This will vary depending on the person's preferences.

For meal prep efficiency optimization, you can use a multi-cooker or slow-cooker to cook multiple ingredients at once. Pre-cut vegetables are also useful.

A few easy steps can make meal preparation for a plant based diet fun and easy. You can start by making a grocery store list of the recipes you will be using. To get fresh produce and other quality items, you should shop at local farmers' market or health food shops if possible. Next, you need to make sure that you allow enough time to prepare your food. These alternatives mean less effort and maximum savings. Also, it is important to use the right storage equipment so that food stays fresh until used.

The best thing about plant-based meal preparation is that it allows one to eat healthy no matter how busy their life becomes. By taking the guesswork out of healthy eating, individuals will likely achieve their nutritional goals sooner rather than later.

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