14 January 2026
Blog

Fresh vs Pressed Edible Flowers: Which Should You Use?

How to choose between fresh and pressed edible flowers

Edible flowers have a way of elevating food effortlessly. Whether scattered across a cake, delicately placed on biscuits, or floating on a cocktail, they instantly add beauty, creativity, and a sense of occasion.

One of the most common questions we’re asked at is:

Should I use fresh or pressed edible flowers?

The answer depends on what you’re creating, how far in advance you’re decorating, and the overall look you want to achieve. Below, we break down the differences to help you choose with confidence.

Natural florals for a beautifully 3D finish.

Fresh Edible Flowers

Appearance

Fresh edible flowers are loved for their natural movement, vibrant colour, and organic feel. They add height and softness, making them perfect for designs that feel abundant and seasonal.

Fresh flowers work beautifully on:

  • Buttercream cakes
  • Desserts served on the day
  • Cocktails and drinks
  • Grazing tables and savoury dishes

Each bloom is unique, giving your creation a one-of-a-kind finish.

Taste

Fresh edible flowers generally have a very subtle flavour, if any at all, and are chosen primarily for their visual impact. However, some varieties do offer gentle flavour notes.

For example, nasturtiums are known for their peppery, slightly spicy taste. This makes them a popular choice for savoury dishes, salads, and garnishes where flavour and appearance work together.

Shelf Life

For best quality and appearance, we recommend using fresh edible flowers within 5 days of delivery.

Storage

  • Store refrigerated
  • Keep in original packaging
  • Avoid excess moisture and condensation

Fresh flowers are at their best when used close to serving time.

When to Use Fresh Edible Flowers

Fresh edible flowers are ideal when:

  • Your bake or dish will be served soon
  • You want a soft, romantic, garden-inspired look
  • Seasonality and freshness are key to your design

Shop Fresh Edible Flowers

Bring colour, movement, and a natural finishing touch to your bakes and dishes. Fresh edible flowers add instant impact and effortless beauty to every creation.

Edible Flower Selection Wheel Price range: £12.10 through £15.29
Paradise Edible Flowers (Abutilon) £4.56
Edible Flowers for Cakes £9.50
Alyssum Edible Flowers £3.66
Dianthus Edible Flowers £4.78
Calendula Edible Flowers (Marigold) £5.73
Viola Edible Flowers Price range: £5.15 through £10.29
Pansy Edible Flowers £5.15
Illustrative details for elegant designs.

Pressed & Dried Edible Flowers

Appearance

Pressed and dried edible flowers are flat, delicate, and beautifully detailed. Each petal is preserved, making them perfect for more controlled, illustrative, and design-led finishes.

They are especially popular for:

  • Fondant cakes
  • Biscuits and shortbread
  • Chocolate
  • Cupcake toppers
  • Wedding cakes and larger orders

Pressed flowers offer consistency and precision, which many professional bakers love.

Taste

Pressed and dried edible flowers are neutral in flavour and typically used in small quantities. Their role is visual rather than flavour-driven.

Shelf Life

Pressed and dried edible flowers can be used within 6 months of delivery when stored correctly.

Storage

  • Store at room temperature
  • Keep dry and out of direct sunlight
  • Ensure packaging is sealed between uses

No refrigeration is required, making them ideal for advance preparation.

When to Use Pressed & Dried Edible Flowers

Pressed or dried edible flowers are best when:

  • You need to decorate in advance
  • Longevity and reliability matter
  • Your design is modern, minimal, or highly detailed
  • You want full control over placement

Shop Pressed & Dried Edible Flowers

Create refined, design-led finishes with delicate detail. Pressed and dried edible flowers are perfect for intentional styling that elevates every bake.

Pressed Edible Flowers for Cakes £5.09
Cosmos Pressed Edible Flowers Out of stock
Pressed Edible Stems £5.09
Lavender Pressed Edible Flowers £5.09
Sunny Daze Dried Edible Flowers for Cakes Price range: £4.38 through £51.27
Amaranth Pom Pom Dried Edible Flowers £4.38
Viola Pressed Edible Flowers £5.09
Pansy Pressed Edible Flowers £5.09
Mini Daisy Pressed Edible Flowers £5.09

Fresh vs Pressed Edible Flowers: A Quick Comparison

  • Fresh edible flowers offer movement, softness, and a natural finish, best used within 5 days and stored in the fridge.
  • Pressed and dried edible flowers provide precision and longevity, lasting up to 6 months when stored at room temperature.
A thoughtful blend of fresh and pressed.

Can You Use Fresh and Pressed Edible Flowers Together?

Absolutely.

Many bakers and designers combine:

  • Pressed or dried edible flowers for structure and longevity
  • Fresh edible flowers for softness and final flourishes

This layered approach creates depth and balance, resulting in designs that feel both intentional and effortlessly beautiful.

Choosing the Right Edible Flowers for Your Creation

At Nurtured in Norfolk, all of our edible flowers are grown and prepared with care, so you can choose confidently – whether you’re baking for a wedding, a celebration, or simply creating something beautiful.

If you’re ever unsure which option is right for you, we’re always happy to help! Click here to contact us and we’ll be happy to help you choose.

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