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    Home » Recipes » Condiments

    How to Make Rose Water at Home 2 Ways - Easy DIY Rosewater Recipe

    Published: Feb 13, 2022 · Modified: Aug 9, 2022 by Kristen Wood - This post may contain affiliate links.

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    How to Make Rose Water at Home 2 Ways - Easy DIY Rosewater Recipe

    How to make rose water at home! An easy DIY rose water recipe that can be used for culinary purposes, skincare and more! We offer two methods for making homemade rosewater in this post.

    a bright pink rose rests next to a clear jar filled with fresh homemade rose water.
    Jump to:
    • 🌹 What is Rose Water?
    • 📜 What is the History of Rose Water?
    • ❤️ Why You'll Love This Recipe
    • ✔️ What Are Some Benefits of Using Rose Water?
    • 🗒️ Ingredient Notes
    • ♨️ How to Make Rose Water – Two Ways!
    • 🎂 How to Use Rose Water 
    • 🧴How to Store Rose Water
    • ❓FAQ
    • 🥀 Rose Water Infused Recipes
    • 📖 Recipe
    • 💬 Comments

    Love the fragrance and flavor of roses but don't want to spend a fortune on rose water? You can make your own rose water at home with just a few simple ingredients. In this blog post, we will show you two ways to make rose water – one using the distillation method and one using the simmering method.

    🌹 What is Rose Water?

    Rose water is the natural byproduct of steeping rose petals in water or distilling rose petals in steam. Rose water has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which is relevant whether you use rosewater for culinary uses or skincare applications. 

    📜 What is the History of Rose Water?

    The rose has long been associated with love, beauty, and happiness. It's no wonder that rose water is such a popular ingredient in perfumes. Rose water can be traced back to ancient times when it was used for religious ceremonies and medicinal purposes by the Egyptians. In medieval times, rose water was used for everything from bathing to infusing marzipan treats. Nearly every culture has a particular culinary use for rosewater!

    a close up shot of bright rose blossoms surround a closed jar of homemade rosewater recipe.

    ❤️ Why You'll Love This Recipe

    • It's easy to make.
    • It's affordable.
    • Rose water has many health benefits.
    • It smells amazing!

    ✔️ What Are Some Benefits of Using Rose Water?

    • Soothes sunburns and skin irritations, including acne, eczema, dandruff and rosacea.
    • Has natural anti-inflammatory properties.
    • Has antiseptic properties.
    • Is great for adding a rose scent to homemade beauty products.
    • Adds a beautiful fragrance and flavor to culinary creations.

    🗒️ Ingredient Notes

    Rose petals: You can use fresh or dried rose petals to make rose water. If you're using fresh rose petals, be sure to wash them well before using them. If using for culinary/internal use, especially opt for organic, culinary-grade rose petals.

    Distilled water: Distilled water is preferable for making rose water because it has a higher pH level and is free of contaminants. You can find distilled water at most grocery stores or drugstores.

    ♨️ How to Make Rose Water – Two Ways!

    Method One: Simmering Rose Water

    Equipment Needed for Simmering Method Homemade Rose Water

    • 1 cup measuring cup
    • saucepan
    • strainer
    • 1 cup dried rose petals or 2 cups fresh petals
    • 5 cups of water

    Instructions: Simmering Method Rose Water

    Step 1. Add 1 cup dried rose petals or 2 cups fresh petals (if using fresh, rinse to remove bugs and dirt – only use organic to avoid pesticides) to a saucepan with 5 cups of water.

    Step 2. Bring to a boil

    Step 3. Once it has come to a boil, reduce to simmer, and simmer for 20 minutes.

    Step 4. Turn off heat and let sit for 1 hour before straining the liquid and bottling. Cheesecloth, a nut milk bag or a metal fine mesh sieve work well for straining.

    a bright pink rose rests next to a bottle of DIY rose water.

    Method 2: Distilling Rose Water

    Equipment Needed for Distilling Method Homemade Rose Water

    • heat-proof bowl
    •  large pot with lid
    • 5 cups of water
    • 1 cup dried rose petals or 2 cups fresh petals
    • ice

    Instructions: Distilling Method Rose Water

    Step 1. Place a heat-proof bowl in the center of a large pot.

    Step 2. Add rose petals and water to the pot around the bowl (make sure to not get anything inside of the bowl).

    Step 3. Place the pot’s lids on upside down, then bring the water to a boil.

    Step 4. Once boiling, reduce to a simmer, and add some ice to the top of the lid.

    Step 5. As the ice melts, pour off the water and add more ice.

    Step 6. Continue this process until the color from the petals fades and some clean clear rose water has collected inside the bowl. 

    Step 7. Allow everything to cool before bottling and using.

    🎂 How to Use Rose Water 

    Rose water is great for adding a rose scent to your homemade beauty products. It's also great added to body and face mists, rosewater milk, rosewater toner recipes, rose water hydrosol sprays (or just as a rose spray), and more.

    It can be used to soothe sunburns, skin irritations, and other minor ailments.

    You can also use rosewater to make rose ice cubes, rose sugar scrub recipes, rose bath recipes, rose tea, rose soap, rose infused cakes, cookies and other baked goods and more.

    It can also be used for aromatherapy uses and can be a great mood enhancer.

    There are so many different ways you can enjoy this beautiful floral water, both externally and internally!

    🧴How to Store Rose Water

    Store rose water in a lidded glass bottle or glass jar in a refrigerator or cool, dry place for up to one year.

    a clear glass jar filled with freshly homemade rosewater.

    ❓FAQ

    How long does homemade rose water last?

    Homemade rose water will last for up to a year when stored in a cool, dark place. If it starts to form crystals or the natural oils separate from the rose water, it's time to toss it out.

    Can I use dried rose buds instead of rose petals?

    Yes, rose petals and rosebuds can be used interchangeably, though the sepals (green part at base of petals) will offer a slightly different, but still delicious, flavor that is noticeable in culinary use. You'll need twice as many rosebuds by volume than rose petals because rose buds are denser.

    Can I use fresh or dried rose petals to make rose water?

    Yes, you can use either fresh or dried rose petals to make homemade rosewater.

    Is rose water good for your skin?

    Rosewater is great for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin. Rose water can also help to restore the pH balance of your skin after using harsh cleansers. It's also a great way to cool down your skin in the summertime.

    Can rose water be used as a facial toner?

    Yes, rosewater can be used as a facial toner. Simply dab some onto the skin using a cotton pad or apply with a fine mist spray bottle.

    What are rose petals?

    Rose petals are simply the rose flowers that have been removed from their stems.

    🥀 Rose Water Infused Recipes

    Gluten Free Persian Love Cake

    25 Delicious Edible Rose Recipes

    a bottle of rose water made at home is surrounding by two bright pink rose blossoms.

    Give these two simple recipes a try and see which one works best for you!

    📖 Recipe

    How to Make Rose Water at Home 2 Ways - Easy DIY Rosewater Recipe

    How to Make Rose Water at Home

    How to make rose water at home! An easy DIY rose water recipe that can be used for culinary purposes, skincare and more! We offer two methods for making homemade rosewater in this post.
    5 from 67 votes
    Print Pin Rate SaveSaved!
    Course: Condiments
    Cuisine: Persian
    Diet: Gluten Free, Low Calorie, Vegan, Vegetarian
    Prep Time: 10 minutes
    Cook Time: 20 minutes
    Steeping Time/Distillation Time: 1 hour
    Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
    Servings: 10 servings
    Author: Kristen Wood

    Ingredients

    • 1 cup dried rose petals or 2 cups fresh rose petals
    • 5 cups distilled water
    Prevent your screen from going dark

    Instructions

    Simmering Method

    • Add the rose petals to a saucepan, then cover with the water.
    • Turn the heat to high and bring to a boil.
    • Once boiling, turn the heat to simmer and simmer for 20 minutes.
    • Turn off the heat and let sit and steep for 1 hour.
    • Strain, bottle and enjoy!

    Distillation Method

    • Place a heat-proof bowl in the center of a large pot.
    •  Add the rose petals and water to the pot around the bowl (make sure to not get anything inside of the bowl).
    • Place the pot’s lid on upside down, then bring the water to a boil.
    • Once boiling, reduce to a simmer, and add some ice to the top of the lid.
    • As the ice melts, pour off the water and add more ice.
    • Continue this process until the color from the petals fade and some clean and clear rose water has collected inside the bowl. 
    • Allow everything to cool before bottling and using. Enjoy!

    Notes

    Please see the full post above this recipe card for TONS of information and answers to many questions you may have!
    FYI: The simmering method results in rose water with a reddish hue and the distillation method results in a clear rose water.
    You might like: Edible Roses.
    Also see: Elderflower Cordial.
     

    Nutrition

    Serving: 0.5cup | Calories: 9kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 7mg | Potassium: 2mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 70IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 4mg | Iron: 2mg

    Recommended Products

    Edible Rose Petals
    Have you tried this recipe?Please Rate + Comment Below!
    Mention on Instagram!@moon.and.spoon.and.yum

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    • Share

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Janis says

      February 23, 2023 at 4:53 pm

      5 stars
      Love this! After I make the rose water, I want to use it as a mist for my face. It says to store it in a glass container. Can I put it in a plastic spray bottle up to a certain period of time? Thanks so much in advance! ~ Janis

      Reply
      • Kristen Wood says

        February 24, 2023 at 4:45 pm

        Hi, Janis! That will work just fine. I've just found that if it's kept in plastic for sustained periods of time, the nice rose smell doesn't last as long and sometimes takes on a plastic smell. I hope this helps!

        Reply
    2. Annette S. says

      October 29, 2022 at 6:43 am

      I can use purified water instead of distilled?

      Reply
      • Kristen Wood says

        October 29, 2022 at 11:47 am

        Yes, you can!

        Reply
      • Kaylin Somavia says

        March 15, 2023 at 10:11 pm

        5 stars
        These ideas are great! I can't wait to try them. Thanks for sharing.

        Reply
    3. Gina Abernathy says

      October 23, 2022 at 4:41 am

      5 stars
      I had no idea it was so easy to make. My house smells amazing.

      Reply
    4. Tavo says

      October 23, 2022 at 2:20 am

      5 stars
      I didn't know rose water was so easy to make! I am using it to make Jewish desserts!

      Reply
    5. Charla says

      October 23, 2022 at 2:06 am

      5 stars
      Brilliant I use rose water in my hair regime so I will definitely try my hand at making some.

      Reply
    6. Ieva says

      October 23, 2022 at 12:12 am

      5 stars
      Just made this rose water again, but this time using the distilling method! So fragrant! I think it worked even better than the simmering method 🙂

      Reply
    7. MacKenzie says

      October 22, 2022 at 8:18 pm

      5 stars
      I love that rose water has anti-inflammatory properties. I can’t wait to make. I’m sure it smells amazing

      Reply
    8. Mahy says

      August 19, 2022 at 3:11 am

      5 stars
      I love that you are giving two ways of making the rose water. Always makes it easier!

      Reply
    9. Kay says

      August 19, 2022 at 2:39 am

      5 stars
      This rose water recipe is fantastic! It's so easy to make, and it has so many uses, I can't recommend it enough!

      Reply
    10. Dannii says

      August 19, 2022 at 12:38 am

      5 stars
      I went foraging for rose recently, I am definitely going to make this next time.

      Reply
    11. Ieva Greber says

      August 19, 2022 at 12:21 am

      5 stars
      I am so in love with rose water-flavoured desserts, that I had to start making my own rose water. I've followed our recipe to make a couple of batches, both times using the simmering method, and I am very pleased with the results! Really fragrant and so easy to make!

      Reply
    12. Sabine says

      July 27, 2022 at 3:13 am

      5 stars
      Wow, this was a great read to learn more about all the things you can do with rose water. And on top of all, so easy to make.

      Reply
    13. Amanda Wren-Grimwood says

      July 27, 2022 at 1:22 am

      5 stars
      Ths is gorgeous in a gin and tonic and it's good in ice cream too. So glad I can make this at home now.

      Reply
    14. Janessa says

      July 26, 2022 at 8:30 pm

      5 stars
      I had no idea that rose water had so many benefits! Definitely a good recipe to know now that it is summertime and sunburn season.

      Reply
    15. Tara says

      July 26, 2022 at 6:21 pm

      5 stars
      Such a wonderful homemade recipe with so many uses! I love how you included two methods to prepare the rose water too.

      Reply
    16. Liz says

      July 26, 2022 at 5:45 pm

      5 stars
      I've always wanted to try rose water and it's not sold near me. This is so good!

      Reply
    17. Liza says

      July 18, 2022 at 6:33 pm

      5 stars
      What a special recipe! My niece makes a cocktail with rose water, so I'll definitely be gifting her some. I was pleasantly surprised that it lasts a year if stored properly. Thank you for another winning idea from Moon and Spoon and Yum.

      Reply
    18. Aimee Mars says

      July 18, 2022 at 6:05 pm

      5 stars
      I love rose water and had no idea it was so easy to make! Do you think it would be possible to make it into rose water syrup? I bet it would be incredible on pancakes!

      Reply
    19. Amanda says

      July 18, 2022 at 5:45 pm

      5 stars
      Thanks for such a helpful guide! I added a touch of rose water to a gin fizz, and it gave the drink the perfect floral touch for summer.

      Reply
    20. Chenée says

      July 18, 2022 at 5:33 pm

      5 stars
      I love using rosewater as a toner so I'm so glad I found this! Thank you!

      Reply
    21. MJ says

      July 18, 2022 at 4:39 pm

      5 stars
      I needed some rose water for a certain cocktail recipe and this was perfect! Love the light fragrance.

      Reply
    22. Jenny says

      June 16, 2022 at 5:46 pm

      5 stars
      You describe everything so well. My roses are in bloom and I'm ready to give this a try. I was thinking of freezing some in ice cube trays to have it through the winter. That way I can pop a cube out and defrost as needed. Do you think that would work?

      Reply
      • Kristen Wood says

        June 16, 2022 at 5:54 pm

        Thank you! I'm happy to hear that. I think that would work beautifully! 🙂

        Reply
    23. Andrea says

      June 08, 2022 at 1:18 pm

      5 stars
      I had no idea that Rose water has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, I can't wait to make this and use it in skin care and baking.

      Reply
    24. Tayler Ross says

      June 08, 2022 at 1:04 pm

      5 stars
      I've been wanting to try rose water, so I used this recipe to make some and it turned out perfectly! Thank you!

      Reply
    25. Diana Reis says

      June 08, 2022 at 12:30 pm

      5 stars
      This was so simple and came out great. I've been adding a splash to my bath at night. Love it!

      Reply
    26. Shadi Hasanzadenemati says

      June 08, 2022 at 12:11 pm

      5 stars
      This was amazing and such a treat! Thank you! Everyone in my family loved it.

      Reply
    27. Mirlene says

      June 08, 2022 at 11:50 am

      5 stars
      The scent of roses are incredible when it comes to making your own. Its so easy to make and love how I can use it for multipurposes!

      Reply
    28. Natalie says

      June 03, 2022 at 1:59 am

      5 stars
      I never thought it was so easy to make rose water. I can`t thank you enough for this recipe!

      Reply
    29. Dannii says

      June 03, 2022 at 12:45 am

      5 stars
      I have always wanted to make my own face cream, so this would be perfect for it.

      Reply
    30. Ieva says

      June 03, 2022 at 12:38 am

      5 stars
      What a useful article! I find myself needing rose water for a recipe once in a while and can never get it in small quantities anywhere. Great to learn how to make rose water at home! Extremely helpful!

      Reply
    31. Anjali says

      June 02, 2022 at 6:45 pm

      5 stars
      I love using rose water in recipes and for skincare but have always bought it from the store (and it can get pricey!) I can't wait to try your homemade version - it looks so easy to make!

      Reply
    32. Janie | Naughty Kitchen says

      June 02, 2022 at 4:51 pm

      5 stars
      Ive tried the simmering method too. I love having rose water because it's so natural. Im usually under the sun and it helps with my burnt skin!

      Reply
    33. Sara says

      February 14, 2022 at 4:18 pm

      5 stars
      I have super sensitive skin so use rose water for skin care. It can be really expensive and never thought about making it myself, until I found your recipe. So easy the follow, absolutely love making this at home, thank you for sharing!

      Reply
    34. Jessica Formicola says

      February 14, 2022 at 4:03 pm

      5 stars
      I've been so intrigued to try rose water, and now I can't wait to make my own! Thanks for sharing!

      Reply
    35. Andrea says

      February 14, 2022 at 3:38 pm

      5 stars
      I didn't think I could make this myself but with these directions I'm ready to give it a try.

      Reply
    36. Alina says

      February 14, 2022 at 2:11 pm

      5 stars
      I need to find organic roses to make this recipe. Such a nice idea!

      Reply
    37. Jess says

      February 14, 2022 at 12:44 pm

      5 stars
      I love how versatile this is and what you can use this for!

      Reply
      • Kristen Wood says

        February 14, 2022 at 12:48 pm

        Thank you!

        Reply

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    kristen wood

    About Kristen Wood

    Hi, I'm Kristen! A mama, food writer, photographer, recipe developer, and cookbook author. I enjoy sharing both wildly creative and ridiculously practical gluten-free vegetarian recipes that are approachable for all. Welcome!

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