Flowers on cakes can transform an ordinary dessert into a breathtaking masterpiece. Whether you’re planning a wedding, birthday party, or any special event, adorning a cake with beautiful blooms adds a touch of elegance and nature. Lori of Found Florist Farm felt the importance of discussing flower use on cakes. All flowers are created equal when it comes to cake decorating. It’s crucial to understand the difference between edible flowers, non-edible flowers, and the distinction between food-grade flowers and those meant solely for floral arrangements.
Edible vs. Non-Edible Flowers
Edible Flowers:
Edible flowers are blooms that are safe to consume. These flowers are not only beautiful but also add unique flavors, textures, and aromas to your cake. Some popular edible flowers include:
- Roses: Petals are sweet and aromatic, making them perfect for cake decoration.
- Lavender: Offers a floral, slightly sweet flavor that complements many desserts.
- Violets: Delicate and sweet, violets are a classic choice for decorating cakes.
- Marigolds: Bright and zesty, marigolds add a splash of color and a peppery taste.
Non-Edible Flowers:
While some flowers are visually stunning, they can be toxic if consumed. Non-edible flowers should never be used directly on cakes, especially if there’s a chance they might come into contact with the cake itself. Flowers that are edible should always be used with the knowledge that someone could have an allergy, just like with any food. Common non-edible flowers include:
- Lily of the Valley: Highly toxic and should never be used near food.
- Hydrangeas: Beautiful but can cause stomach upset if ingested.
- Daffodils: While cheerful, these flowers are toxic and should be avoided.
- Foxgloves: Extremely toxic and should not be used in any food-related context.
Food-Grade vs. Floral Arrangement Flowers
Food-Grade Flowers:
When choosing flowers to adorn your cake, it’s important to ensure they are food-grade. Even if the flower is edible by nature, doesn't mean that going in your local grocery store and buying a rose means you should eat it or have it touching food. Food grade flowers mean the flowers have been grown specifically for consumption and have not been treated with any harmful pesticides or chemicals. Food-grade flowers can be found at specialty grocery stores, farmer’s markets, or from trusted suppliers who guarantee their blooms are safe to eat.
Floral Arrangement Flowers:
This may sound like common-sense, but even flowers that can be eaten should be avoided if they were grown commercially unless they are labeled as edible for use in food. Flowers intended for floral arrangements are not meant for consumption. These flowers are often treated with pesticides, preservatives, and other chemicals to prolong their shelf life and enhance their appearance. Even if the flower is technically edible, if it has been treated with these substances, it should not come into contact with your cake. If you’re considering using flowers from a florist, discuss with the florist your purpose for buying them.
Tips for Safely Using Flowers on Cakes
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Always Research the Flower Type: Before placing any flower on your cake, do thorough research to ensure it’s safe. When in doubt, consult with a professional.
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Use a Barrier: We don't recommend ever using non-edible flowers as some are very toxic. If you are creating a cake and think the edible ones could pose a problem for your guests (better safe than sorry) create a barrier between the flowers and the cake, such as wax paper or placing them in little vases or cake toppers.
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Wash Edible Flowers: Even food-grade edible flowers should be gently washed before placing them on a cake to remove any dirt or insects.
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Consider Edible Flower Alternatives: If you’re unsure about using real flowers, consider silk flowers in replace of the non-edible ones you may want to have used. You can opt for edible sugar flowers or artificial flowers made specifically for cake decorating. These provide the same visual impact without the risk.
Conclusion
Decorating cakes with flowers can be a beautiful way to bring nature’s elegance to your celebration, but safety should always come first. By understanding the differences between edible and non-edible flowers and ensuring you use food-grade blooms, you can create stunning cakes that are as safe as they are beautiful.
Stay informed, choose wisely, and enjoy the delightful combination of flowers and cake with peace of mind
