Recipes with scented geraniums

Simple ideas for using pelargoniums in the kitchen

A different way to experience pelargoniums

Scented geraniums are not just ornamental plants: their leaves, rich in natural aromas, can also be used in cooking to create simple yet surprising dishes.

From citrusy to sweeter and more delicate scents, each variety offers a different sensory experience.

The following recipes are inspired by the work of Adelma Simmons, founder of the Caprilands Herb Farm (Connecticut), a pioneer in the use of aromatic herbs in cooking.

🍵 Scented Geranium Tea

A simple preparation, perfect for discovering the scent of pelargoniums.

Ingredients

• 1–2 scented geranium leaves per cup
  (rose geranium, Pelargonium odoratissimum – apple scent – or lemon varieties like ‘Queen of Lemon’, ‘Lemon Fancy’, ‘Angel’s Perfume’)
• green tea or black tea
• hot water
• optional: cloves, orange or lemon slices

Preparation

Place the leaves along with the tea in hot water and let steep for a few minutes.
You can enrich the drink with spices or citrus fruits to enhance the aromatic notes.

The result is a delicate drink, with a natural aroma that varies depending on the chosen variety.

🍰 Rose Geranium Cake

A simple and fragrant recipe, where pelargonium leaves become an integral part of the dessert.

Ingredients

• 240 ml whipping cream
• 240 ml sugar
• 2 eggs
• 360 g flour
• 10 g baking powder
• 5 ml vanilla extract
• fresh rose geranium leaves (Pelargonium graveolens)

Preparation

Whip the cream and slowly add the sugar until a homogeneous mixture is obtained.
Incorporate the eggs, one at a time, then add the sifted flour, baking powder, and vanilla extract.

Grease a baking pan and arrange the pelargonium leaves on the bottom and sides.
Pour in the mixture and bake at 190°C until golden brown.

During baking, the leaves release a delicate aroma that perfumes the entire cake.

Which geraniums to use in cooking

Not all varieties are suitable for culinary use.
For these preparations, scented pelargoniums are used, such as:

• rose geranium (rose)
• Pelargonium odoratissimum (apple)
• lemon varieties

It is important to use plants grown without chemical treatments, suitable for conscious use.

An experience that goes beyond the garden

Using scented geraniums in the kitchen means experiencing the plant in a different way:
not just observing the blooms, but discovering scents, textures, and new possibilities.

Discover the varieties of scented geraniums available in our collection.