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Rose Water Sugar Cookies

Delicate and floral Rose Water Sugar Cookies, perfect for gatherings or a cozy afternoon with tea.
Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

For the Cookies
  • 3 ⅓ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, very cold, cut into 1-inch cubes Use very cold butter for best results.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 teaspoons rose water
For the Glaze
  • 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
  • a pinch kosher salt
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon rose water
For Assembly
  • edible flowers Optional, for decoration.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
  2. In a stand mixer, cream the cold butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
  3. Reduce the mixer speed to low, add the egg and 2 teaspoons rose water, and beat until just incorporated.
  4. Add the dry ingredients and beat on low until the dough comes together and is just combined.
  5. Shape the dough into a square, wrap it in plastic wrap, then roll it out between two sheets of parchment paper to your desired thickness. Refrigerate for 1 hour to firm up.
Baking
  1. Cut shapes from the chilled dough and place them on parchment-lined baking sheets.
  2. Freeze the cut cookies for 10–15 minutes to help them hold their shape in the oven.
  3. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for about 10 minutes, until they are just golden around the edges.
  4. Transfer to a wire rack and let cool completely.
Glazing
  1. For the glaze, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, a pinch of kosher salt, heavy cream, and 1 teaspoon rose water until thick but spreadable.
  2. Spread a thin layer of glaze on each cooled cookie, sprinkle with edible flowers, and allow to dry at room temperature for 2–3 hours until set.

Notes

Store decorated cookies in a single layer separated by parchment paper in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze undecorated cookies for up to 2 months; thaw fully before glazing.