Sure, everyone loves roses that look pretty in a vase and smell nice, but why not change things up this Mother's Day with some tasty treats shaped like or flavored with roses? Here are some beautiful creations that taste as good as they look, based on the rave reviews. Make one or more, pour her a glass of rosé, slip in some pretty rose petal ice cubes and drink a toast to Mom!
Bacon Rose Quiche
Ordinary bacon turns into extraordinary savory roses to decorate this easy quiche. Add a few sliced green onions to really make the whole thing pop.
Baked Apple Roses
Chef John's take on a recipe he spotted on a Brazilian food blog, these edible sculptures aren't has complicated as they look. Try it! The finished dish might just remind you of the best apple pie you've ever eaten.
Veggie Rose Tart
Thinly sliced carrots and zucchini are rolled into rose shapes and baked in an egg and cheese custard inside a puff pastry shell. Watch the video to see how it all comes together:
Egyptian Rose Leaves
Rosewater gives these delicate cookies an exotic twist. If you want to bump up the fragrant flavor, look for rose fluid at pharmacies.
Strawberry Roses
A little mascarpone cheese, a bit of whipped cream, a few strategic moves with a knife and boom! Dessert is served. This one's super easy.
Arabian Rose Water Pudding (Muhalbiyah)
This just might be the most unique pudding you've ever tried. It's got a texture that's closer to a creme caramel, yet the signature ingredient lends a bright note that keeps it from going over-the-top. Find rose water in the baking section at supermarkets or check at drug stores. Be sure and double check that it's intended for culinary use, not for dabbing on your wrists. (It will say so on the label.)
Chef John's Potato Roses
"Baked rose-shaped potato gratins are great for entertaining," says Chef John, "since you can make them ahead, and keep them warm in the pan, or cool and reheat in the oven when you are ready to serve. The technique is straightforward, but make sure you season the potatoes generously."
Rose Ice Cream
A blushing bowl full of this distinctive dessert will definitely make Mom smile, especially if you garnish it with chopped nuts like pistachios, cashews or almonds.
Yazdi Cakes
This Persian family recipe fits the niche when you're craving a treat that's not too sweet. The combination of cardamom and rose water, plus pistachios is a winner.
Rachel's Rose Sangria
What happens when you add rum, brandy and some fruit to pink wine? A party! Serve this refresher over ice.
And because everything's better with bacon, here's a super short video on how to make roses out of that smoky pork belly.