Rose-Infused Sugar Cookies

Name: Rose-Infused Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon rosewater; ½ teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; Granulated sugar for sprinkling; Edible rose petals (optional) for garnish

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore baking, and this recipe for Rose-Infused Sugar Cookies holds a special place in my heart. The sweet aroma of rosewater combined with the delicate crunch of sugar cookies takes me to a lovely garden with blooming roses. When I first experimented with this flavor, my friends were skeptical, but the result was a deliciously fragrant cookie that delighted everyone. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, bringing a unique twist that will leave your guests asking for seconds.

Created by

Natalie Warren

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:28:08.415Z

Baking these Rose-Infused Sugar Cookies turned out to be a delightful adventure. I initially hesitated, wondering if the rose flavor would be overwhelming, but the subtle hint blends perfectly with the sweetness of the cookies. Each bite transports you to a spring garden filled with blooming flowers, and the delicate crunch adds a satisfying texture.

Through my trial and error with ratios, I found that just the right amount of rosewater creates a balanced flavor without overpowering the cookie base. Pairing them with a light tea enhances the experience, making it a lovely treat for afternoon gatherings.

        Why You'll Love These Cookies
        Fragrant rose flavor that elevates traditional cookies
Delightfully crunchy texture with a soft center
Impressive yet easy recipe that wows guests

      

Understanding Rosewater's Role

Rosewater is a key ingredient in these cookies, imparting a fragrant floral note that transforms the traditional sugar cookie. When baking, the concentration of flavors evolves; therefore, it's crucial to use high-quality rosewater for the best results. If the rosewater is too weak, the cookies may lack that signature aroma. On the other hand, avoid using too much, as it can become overpowering and lead to a soapy taste. For a fun twist, consider experimenting with flavored extracts like almond or orange blossom in combination with the rosewater to create a unique flavor profile.

In baking, butter plays a significant role beyond flavor—it contributes to the texture and structure of your cookies. Be sure your butter is at room temperature before creaming it with sugar; this process incorporates air into the butter, ensuring your cookies have that delightful crunch on the outside while remaining soft in the center. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute the butter with coconut oil, but note that this will lend a subtle coconut aroma and a slightly different texture.

Perfecting the Dough and Baking Technique

After mixing the dough, chilling it for about 30 minutes can enhance the flavor and texture of your cookies. Chilling solidifies the fats, leading to thicker cookies with less spreading during baking. If you're in a hurry, a quick chill in the freezer for 10-15 minutes can also do the trick. Use a cookie scoop for evenly-sized portions; this ensures uniform baking and helps them achieve the same golden edges.

Watching the cookies closely as they bake is essential. At the 10-minute mark, start checking for doneness; they should have lightly golden edges while the centers are still doughy. If you prefer a slightly firmer cookie, leave them in for another minute or two, but avoid overbaking to maintain that desirable soft center. Letting the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes allows them to firm up before transferring them to a wire rack.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delightful cookies:

Cookie Ingredients

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon rosewater
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt

Topping Ingredients

Granulated sugar for sprinkling
Edible rose petals (optional) for garnish

Once you have these ingredients ready, you can start making your rose-infused treats.

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your cookies:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Make the Dough

In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar until creamy. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and rosewater, mixing well. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt before gradually adding to the wet ingredients.

Shape the Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Gently flatten the tops and sprinkle a bit of sugar for extra crunch.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until the edges start to turn golden. Allow them to cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Enjoy your delightful rose-infused sugar cookies with a cup of tea!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding lemon zest to the dough. It pairs beautifully with the rose flavor and adds a refreshing brightness.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These cookies are great for make-ahead baking. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the dough. Roll it into logs, wrap in parchment paper, then place in a zip-top bag. When you're ready to bake, slice off the desired number of cookies and bake them straight from the freezer, adding an additional minute or two to the baking time.

You can also freeze baked cookies, but it’s best to do so without the sugar sprinkle. Allow the cookies to cool completely, then layer them between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving or reheat them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for a few minutes for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are delightful on their own but can also be paired with a complementary beverage like herbal tea or a light sparkling lemonade, enhancing the floral notes from the rosewater. For a festive touch, consider dusting with edible rose petals or serving them on a beautiful platter at gatherings to impress your guests visually and aromatically.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider sandwiching two cookies with a rose-flavored buttercream or whipped cream. This not only elevates the taste but also creates a lovely presentation for any special occasion. Alternatively, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert that balances the sweetness and fragrance of the cookies.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried rose petals in the recipe?

Yes, you can finely chop dried rose petals and mix them into the dough for added flavor and aesthetic appeal.

→ Is rosewater safe to eat?

Absolutely! Food-grade rosewater is safe to consume and is commonly used in various culinary dishes.

→ How should I store the cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked cookie dough or the baked cookies for up to three months. Thaw before baking or serving.