Ready to make your cakes the talk of the table? This listicle is your ultimate cheat sheet for using edible flowers for cakes like a pro. You will learn about the best blooms for every theme and flavor and pick up tips on safety, DIY tricks, and where to buy edible flowers.
From rustic charm to elegant sophistication, edible flowers bring a fresh, creative flair to desserts. Get ready to wow your guests with cakes that look like they belong in a fairytale.
How to Eat Flowers Safely
Eating flowers? It’s not as wild as it sounds, but you’ve got to do it right! Here’s the deal:
Sourcing matters, so always use blooms intended for eating. Your cakes (and your stomach) will thank you!
20+ Edible Flowers for Cake Decoration (With Interesting Facts)
Angelonia
Ready to add some tropical flair? Angelonia brings cheer and vibrant vibes to your cakes.
The Basics: These delicate, orchid-like flowers come in shades of pink, purple, and white, making them perfect for colorful designs.
A Cool Fact: Known as the “Summer Snapdragon,” Angelonia thrives in hot climates and symbolizes cheerfulness.
When to Use It: Ideal for tropical-themed or summer celebration cakes.
Apple Blossom
Want your cake to smell as sweet as it looks? Apple Blossom is here for it.
The Basics: Small, fragrant flowers with soft pink and white hues.
A Cool Fact: Apple blossoms are the state flower of Michigan and Arkansas, representing spring’s arrival.
When to Use It: Perfect for pressed flower toppers on spring cakes or rustic designs.
Borage
Want to give your cakes a fresh vibe? Borage is a total scene-stealer.
The Basics: These little blue stars bring a crisp, cucumber-like flavor to the party.
A Cool Fact: People once believed borage gave you courage—talk about a confidence boost for your cakes!
When to Use It: Pair it with fruit cakes or citrusy treats for a summer-ready showstopper.
Bougainvillea
Looking for bold and bright? Bougainvillea is your go-to.
The Basics: Vibrant flowers in pinks, purples, and oranges that make any cake pop.
A Cool Fact: In some cultures, bougainvillea is seen as a symbol of passion and protection.
When to Use It: Great for borders or cascading designs on exotic or destination-themed cakes.
Calendula
Want to sprinkle sunshine on your cake? Calendula has you covered.
The Basics: Bright yellow and orange blooms with a mild, peppery flavor.
A Cool Fact: Nicknamed “Poor Man’s Saffron,” calendula was used historically to add color to food.
When to Use It: Perfect for rustic cakes or whimsical designs featuring edible wildflowers.
Camellia
Dreaming of timeless elegance? Camellia is all about class.
The Basics: Large, full-petal blooms in white, pink, and red that exude luxury.
A Cool Fact: In Japan, camellias symbolize admiration and perfection.
When to Use It: Ideal for luxury wedding cakes or upscale events.
Chamomile
Rustic charm, anyone? Chamomile is here to steal the show.
The Basics: These tiny, daisy-like flowers bring a subtle, apple-like flavor.
A Cool Fact: Chamomile has been used for centuries as a calming herbal remedy.
When to Use It: Perfect for honey-infused cakes, or cakes with a vintage design.
Cornflower
Need a pop of blue? Cornflower delivers.
The Basics: Bold, electric-blue blooms that add a striking contrast.
A Cool Fact: Cornflowers were once worn by knights to symbolize devotion.
When to Use It: Perfect celestial-themed designs.
Dahlia
Go big or go home! Dahlia is all about drama.
The Basics: Large, textured blooms that come in nearly every color imaginable.
A Cool Fact: In Victorian times, dahlias symbolized elegance and inner strength.
When to Use It: Ideal for statement-making cakes, like tall tiered wedding designs.
Daisy
Want to keep it whimsical? Daisy is your floral BFF.
The Basics: Cheerful white petals with sunny yellow centers.
A Cool Fact: Daisies symbolize innocence and new beginnings.
When to Use It: Perfect for whimsical, boho-themed cakes as playful daisy cupcake toppers.
Dandelion
Bring some golden charm to your cake with Dandelion.
The Basics: Bright yellow flowers with a subtle honey flavor.
A Cool Fact: Dandelions are known as resilient survivors that thrive just about anywhere.
When to Use It: Perfect for rustic cakes or spring celebrations.
Elderflower
Subtle and sophisticated, Elderflower is a true classic.
The Basics: Tiny white flowers with a delicate floral flavor.
A Cool Fact: Elderflower is the star ingredient in the famous cordial used in summer cocktails.
When to Use It: Perfect for frostings, syrups, or elegant cakes with floral themes.
Forget-Me-Not
For a romantic touch, look no further than Forget-Me-Not.
The Basics: Small blue blooms that symbolize remembrance and love.
A Cool Fact: These flowers were used in medieval times as tokens of loyalty.
When to Use It: Ideal for wedding cakes or anniversary desserts.
Hibiscus
Bring the tropics to your cake with Hibiscus.
The Basics: Large, vibrant petals with a tangy, citrus-like flavor.
A Cool Fact: Hibiscus tea is a staple in many cultures for its refreshing taste and health benefits.
When to Use It: Perfect for tropical-themed cakes or bright summer designs.
Hollyhock
Want to add height and drama? Hollyhock is your flower.
The Basics: Tall, elegant blooms in a variety of bold colors.
A Cool Fact: Hollyhocks symbolize ambition and dreams in many cultures.
When to Use It: Great for towering cakes or garden-inspired designs.
Lavender
Looking for purple edible flowers that are effortlessly elegant? Lavender is the answer.
The Basics: Soft purple buds with a sweet, herbal flavor.
A Cool Fact: Lavender has been prized for its calming scent for centuries.
When to Use It: Perfect for vanilla and lemon cakes.
Lilac
Subtle and fragrant, Lilac is all about understated charm.
The Basics: Light purple or white blooms with a mild floral taste.
A Cool Fact: Lilacs are often associated with first loves and springtime renewal.
When to Use It: Wonderful for spring cakes.
Marigold
Ready to brighten things up? Marigold is your sunny sidekick.
The Basics: Bright orange and yellow petals with a citrusy, slightly spicy flavor.
A Cool Fact: Known as the “Herb of the Sun,” marigolds are thought to bring positive energy.
When to Use It: Perfect for bold, zesty designs or rustic cakes with a splash of color.
Nasturtium
Vibrant and peppery, Nasturtium brings flavor and flair.
The Basics: Bright red, orange, or yellow blooms with a spicy, radish-like taste.
A Cool Fact: Nasturtiums were a favorite of the Incas, who used them as both food and medicine.
When to Use It: Perfect for rustic or garden-themed cakes and savory pastries.
Pansy
Want a colorful, versatile flower? Pansy has your back.
The Basics: Multi-colored blooms that bring a mild, slightly grassy flavor.
A Cool Fact: The name “pansy” comes from the French word pensée, meaning “thought.”
When to Use It: Perfect for pressed flower toppers or whimsical cake decorations.
Violets
Delicate and sweet, Violets are a baker’s dream.
The Basics: Tiny purple or white blooms with a subtle, sweet flavor.
A Cool Fact: Violets were Napoleon Bonaparte’s favorite flower, symbolizing loyalty.
When to Use It: Ideal for tea cakes & vintage designs.
Rose
Want timeless elegance? Edible roses are perfect for cake decorating.
The Basics: Fragrant petals in every shade from soft pink to deep red, with a hint of sweetness.
A Cool Fact: Roses have been symbols of love and beauty since ancient times.
When to Use It: Amazing for edible roses for cake decorating, especially on romantic or wedding cakes.
Sunflower
Bold, bright, and cheerful, Sunflower makes any cake shine.
The Basics: Large yellow petals with a slightly nutty flavor.
A Cool Fact: Sunflowers were once worshiped by the Aztecs as symbols of the sun god.
When to Use It: Perfect for rustic-themed cakes.
Zinnia
Looking for fun and festive? Zinnia brings the party.
The Basics: Multi-colored blooms in bold shades like red, pink, and orange.
A Cool Fact: Zinnias symbolize endurance and lasting affection, making them great for celebrations.
When to Use It: Perfect for birthday cakes and other joyous occasions.
Pressed and Dried Flowers for Cakes
Reasons to Use Pressed and Dried Flowers for Cakes
- Natural Elegance: Edible pressed flowers for cakes bring a delicate, artistic vibe that instantly elevates your designs.
- Eco-Friendly: Using dried edible flowers is a sustainable choice that looks and feels good.
- Versatility: Whether it’s a rustic party or a glam wedding, a dried flower cake topper fits any theme perfectly.
- Long-Lasting: Edible pressed & dried flowers stay vibrant, making them ideal for prepping ahead of time.
- Flavorful Additions: Add subtle hints of floral flavor with edible dried rose petals or other edible blooms.
- Easy to Use: Skip the stress—these ready-to-go decorations make cake design effortless.
- Seasonal and Meaningful: Reflect the time of year or a special occasion with carefully chosen edible dried flowers for your cakes.
Make Your Own Pressed & Dried Edible Flowers for Cakes
Creating your own edible pressed flowers or a dreamy dried flower cake topper is easier than you think.
Here’s how to nail it:
- Harvest Your Blooms: Timing is everything! Pick flowers in the afternoon when there’s no dew, and ensure they’re organic and safe to eat. Think daisies, violets, chamomile, calendula, or pansies.
- Clean Them Up: Rinse them gently in cool water, pat them dry, and snip off stems and pistils. Keep it fresh and flawless.
- Press Like a Pro: Place flowers between parchment paper, tuck them into a heavy book and stack some weights on top. Now, hands off for 1-2 weeks while they flatten into edible pressed flowers perfection.
- Dry the Big Beauties: Air-dry larger blooms on a tray in a cool, dark spot for more texture.
- Store & Create: Once your blooms are dry, store them in an airtight jar. These dried edible flowers are your ticket to show-stopping, nature-inspired cakes.
Where to Find and Buy Edible Flowers
Finding real edible flowers for cakes doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s where to score the best blooms for your creations:
- Local Farmers’ Markets: Your go-to spot for fresh edible flowers for cakes straight from the source. Chat with the growers to ensure they’re pesticide-free.
- Online Shops: Websites like Gourmet Sweet Botanicals and Fresh Origins make it super easy to buy edible flowers and have them shipped right to your door.
- Etsy Sellers: Many small businesses on Etsy offer fresh edible flowers for cakes and beautifully preserved options. Check out shops like Avis Florals And Gifts or Perfect pressed flower handpicked blooms.
Conclusion
Now that you’re armed with all the tips, tricks, and inspiration, it’s time to bring your cakes to life with edible flowers. The possibilities are endless, whether you’re pressing violets, drying chamomile, or sourcing the perfect fresh edible flowers for cakes.
Your cakes deserve to stand out, and with these stunning blooms, they’ll do just that. Go on—get creative and let the flowers do the talking!
FAQ
Q: Do I need to use organic flowers?
A: Yes! Organic, untreated flowers are the safest choice for cakes. Avoid anything with pesticides.
Q: How long do pressed or dried flowers last?
A: Dried cake flowers can last for months when stored in an airtight container.
Q: Can I use flowers from my garden?
A: Only if they’re edible, untreated, and pesticide-free. Double-check their safety before using them on cakes.
Q: Can edible flowers be used on any cake?
A: Totally! From naked cakes to frosted masterpieces, edible flowers work with all styles.