20 Delicious Rose Water Recipes for Every Occasion

When it comes to cooking and baking, rose water can be a game-changer. This fragrant ingredient adds a unique flavor and aroma to a variety of dishes, from sweet treats like cookies and cakes to savory meals like rice pilaf and kebabs. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dessert to impress your significant other or a refreshing drink to enjoy on a warm summer day, rose water is the perfect addition to your culinary repertoire.

In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious recipes that showcase the versatility of rose water. From classic Middle Eastern desserts like baklava and Turkish delight to modern twists on traditional dishes, these recipes are sure to inspire you to get creative in the kitchen.

Rose Water and Cardamom Shortbread Cookies

Rose Water and Cardamom Shortbread Cookies: A fragrant twist on traditional shortbread, these delicate cookies combine the sweetness of rose water with the warm spices of cardamom. Perfect for a special occasion or as a unique gift.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons rose water
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add cardamom and mix until well combined.
4. Cream butter and rose water until smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.

Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes

Yield: About 24 cookies

Persian Rose Water and Pistachio Ice Cream

Experience the exotic flavors of Iran with this unique ice cream recipe that combines the sweetness of rose water with the crunch of pistachios.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons rose water
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the rose water and vanilla extract. Let it cool to room temperature.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. During the last 2 minutes of churning, add the chopped pistachios.
6. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including cooling time)

Rose Water and Honey Glazed Chicken

Elevate your chicken game with this sweet and aromatic glaze featuring rose water and honey. Perfect for special occasions or a unique twist on a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons rose water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, rose water, and Dijon mustard.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with olive oil.
4. Spoon the glaze over the chicken, making sure each breast is coated.
5. Sprinkle paprika and salt to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Rose Water Infused Panna Cotta with Berries

Experience the exotic flavors of India with this elegant dessert, where rose water and creamy panna cotta come together to delight your taste buds.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon rose water
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Fresh berries (such as raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries) for serving

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and stir in rose water and vanilla extract. Let it cool to room temperature.
3. Pour the mixture into small individual cups or ramekins. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
4. Serve chilled, topped with fresh berries.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)

Turkish Delight with Rose Water and Pistachios

Experience the sweet and fragrant world of Turkish Delight, elevated by the delicate essence of rose water and crunchy pistachios.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup rose water
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon glycerin (optional)
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, cornstarch, and 1/4 cup water. Whisk until smooth.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 240°F (115°C).
3. Remove from heat and stir in rose water and glycerin (if using). Let cool to room temperature.
4. Once cooled, knead the mixture until it forms a smooth dough.
5. Divide the dough into small pieces and shape each piece into a ball or desired form.
6. Roll each ball in chopped pistachios to coat evenly.
7. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes, including cooling time.

Rose Water and Almond Milk Smoothie

Escape the ordinary with this exotic blend of rose water and almond milk. This creamy smoothie is perfect for a relaxing afternoon or as a unique pick-me-up.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1/4 teaspoon rose water
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– Ice cubes (as needed)
– Fresh mint leaves (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine almond milk, rose water, and honey.
2. Add the sliced banana and blend until smooth.
3. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
4. Blend again to combine.
5. Pour into a glass and garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: 0 minutes (blending time)

Servings: 1

Enjoy your soothing and flavorful Rose Water and Almond Milk Smoothie!

Rose Water and Coconut Rice Pudding

This exotic rice pudding is infused with the sweet aroma of rose water and the richness of coconut milk. Perfect for a warm evening or as a unique dessert to impress your guests.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1 tablespoon rose water
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine cooked rice, coconut milk, sugar, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook for 18-20 minutes or until the pudding has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in rose water and cardamom (if using).
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Rose Water and Lemonade Spritzer

Revive your senses with this refreshing twist on classic lemonade. This spritzer combines the sweetness of rose water with the tanginess of lemonade, perfect for warm weather gatherings.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 cup rose water (or to taste)
– Sparkling water
– Fresh mint leaves or lemon slices for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pitcher, mix together lemon juice and sugar until dissolved.
2. Add the water and stir well to combine.
3. Stir in the rose water to desired strength (start with 1/4 cup and adjust to taste).
4. Chill mixture in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
5. Just before serving, add sparkling water and stir gently.
6. Garnish with fresh mint leaves or lemon slices, if desired.

Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready when you are.

Rose Water and Orange Blossom Baklava

Elevate your dessert game with this exotic and aromatic baklava recipe, featuring the subtle sweetness of rose water and orange blossom water. Perfect for special occasions or as a unique treat.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 cup honey
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup rose water
– 2 tablespoons orange blossom water
– 1 sheet phyllo dough, thawed
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together walnuts, honey, sugar, rose water, and orange blossom water.
3. Layer the phyllo dough in a 9×13-inch baking dish, brushing each sheet with melted butter.
4. Spread half of the walnut mixture over the phyllo layers.
5. Repeat layering process, finishing with a top layer of phyllo.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Rose Water and Vanilla Cupcakes with Rose Petals

Experience the sweet and delicate flavors of the Middle East with these romantic cupcakes, infused with rose water and topped with a fragrant rose petal. Perfect for special occasions or everyday treats.

Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons rose water
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
– Fresh rose petals for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk butter until creamy. Add milk, eggs, rose water, and vanilla extract; mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture; mix until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly among liners.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar and garnishing with fresh rose petals.

Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes

Rose Water and Saffron Rice Pilaf

A fragrant and flavorful pilaf infused with the sweetness of rose water and the subtle earthiness of saffron, perfect for special occasions or as a side dish.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 2 tablespoons rose water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
– Fresh parsley or mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the soaked saffron threads and stir well to combine.
3. Add the drained rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with the saffron-infused oil.
4. Add the water, rose water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
5. Fluff the pilaf with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley or mint leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Rose Water and Yogurt Marinated Lamb Kebabs

Elevate your outdoor dining with these aromatic and flavorful lamb kebabs, perfect for a summer evening or special occasion. This recipe combines the tenderizing properties of yogurt with the exotic essence of rose water, resulting in a truly unforgettable dish.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound lamb shoulder or leg, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons rose water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for brushing

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, rose water, garlic, lemon juice, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the lamb cubes and mix until well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread marinated lamb onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush with vegetable oil and cook for 8-10 minutes per side, or until lamb reaches desired level of doneness.
5. Serve hot with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes

Rose Water and Raspberry Sorbet

Elevate your dessert game with this elegant sorbet that combines the sweetness of raspberries with the subtle charm of rose water. This refreshing treat is perfect for warm weather or as a unique palate cleanser between courses.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup rose water
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Water, as needed

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, puree the raspberries and sugar until smooth.
2. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds.
3. Whisk together the rose water and heavy cream until well combined.
4. Add the rose water mixture to the raspberry puree and stir until fully incorporated.
5. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Once frozen, scoop and serve.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (including chilling time)

Rose Water and Dark Chocolate Truffles

A delicate fusion of sweet and floral, these truffles combine the richness of dark chocolate with the subtle essence of rose water.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 2 tablespoons rose water
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, melt the chocolate chips.
2. Remove from heat and stir in rose water, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
3. Let the mixture cool to room temperature (about 10-15 minutes).
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
5. Use a melon baller or spoon to scoop out small portions of the mixture.
6. Roll each portion between your hands into a smooth ball shape.
7. Chill in the refrigerator for another 30 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: None, as this recipe requires chilling and cooling times.

Rose Water and Cucumber Salad with Mint

This sweet and tangy salad combines the cooling flavors of cucumber and mint with the exotic essence of rose water, perfect for warm weather or as a light lunch.

Ingredients:

– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup rose water
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cucumber slices and salt. Let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the cucumbers to release their excess moisture.
2. Drain the cucumber mixture and rinse with cold water.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the rose water and lemon juice until well combined.
4. Add the chopped mint leaves to the rose water mixture and stir gently.
5. Add the drained cucumber slices to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional mint leaves if desired.

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Rose Water and Lavender Infused Tea

This delicate tea combines the floral notes of rose water with the calming essence of lavender, creating a soothing and relaxing beverage perfect for unwinding after a long day.

Ingredients:

– 1 teaspoon dried lavender buds
– 1 cup boiling water
– 2 tablespoons rose water
– Honey or sugar (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a teapot or infuser, combine the dried lavender buds and boiling water. Let it steep for 5-7 minutes, or until the mixture reaches your desired strength.
2. Strain the tea into a cup to remove the lavender buds.
3. Add the rose water and stir well to combine.
4. If desired, add honey or sugar to taste.
5. Serve hot or let it cool to room temperature.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Rose Water and Mango Lassi

Beat the heat with this refreshing twist on traditional Indian lassi! This sweet and tangy drink combines the flavors of ripe mango, creamy yogurt, and a hint of rose water to quench your thirst.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups plain yogurt
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 2 tablespoons rose water
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine yogurt, mango, and honey. Blend until smooth.
2. Add rose water and blend until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or rose water to your liking.
4. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.
5. If desired, add ice cubes and garnish with fresh mint leaves.

Cooking Time: None needed! Just blend and enjoy!

Rose Water and Walnut Baklava Rolls

Elevate your pastry game with these sweet and fragrant rolls, infused with the essence of rose water and the crunch of walnuts.

Ingredients:

– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rose petals (or 1 tablespoon rose water)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together sugar, rose petals (or rose water), walnuts, cinnamon, and cardamom.
4. Spread the mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border on either side.
5. Roll the pastry into a tight log shape. Cut into 8-10 equal pieces.
6. Place the rolls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Rose Water and Hibiscus Mocktail

Elevate your mocktail game with this elegant combination of rose water and hibiscus, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a relaxing evening in.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups hibiscus tea, brewed and cooled
– 1/4 cup rose water
– 1 cup sparkling water
– Sliced orange, for garnish
– Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pitcher, combine the cooled hibiscus tea and rose water. Stir well to combine.
2. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Just before serving, stir in the sparkling water.
4. Fill glasses with ice and pour the mocktail over the ice.
5. Garnish with sliced orange and a sprig of fresh mint leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: 0 minutes ( preparation time only)

Rose Water and Pistachio Macarons

Elevate your baking game with these exquisite rose water and pistachio macarons, a perfect combination of floral and nutty flavors.

Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 cups (190g) almond flour
• 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar
• 3 large egg whites
• 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
• 1 tsp rose water
• 1/4 cup (30g) finely ground pistachios
• Food coloring (pink or yellow)
• Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together almond flour and powdered sugar.
3. In a large bowl, whip egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gradually add granulated sugar and continue whipping until combined.
4. Add rose water and pistachios; mix until smooth.
5. Fold the sifted almond mixture into the egg mixture until well combined.
6. Pipe small circles onto prepared baking sheet. Tap gently to remove air pockets.
7. Allow macarons to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to an hour before baking.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until firm and lightly golden.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Summary

Discover the essence of Middle Eastern cuisine with these 20 delectable rose water recipes. From sweet treats like shortbread cookies and panna cotta to savory dishes like glazed chicken and lamb kebabs, rose water adds a unique floral flavor to every meal. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner party or a refreshing summer drink, this collection of recipes has something for everyone. Explore the exotic flavors of Turkish delight, Persian ice cream, and Indian-inspired rice pilaf, all infused with the subtle sweetness of rose water.