Introduction
Rose Milk Cake is one of those desserts that feels like a warm, comforting embrace, combining delicate floral notes with the creaminess of milk in a soft, spongy cake. Inspired by the classic rose milk drink, which is beloved in many parts of South Asia, this cake takes those same soothing flavors and transforms them into a melt-in-your-mouth experience. The cake is infused with rose essence, creating a fragrant base that’s both refreshing and indulgent, while the rose milk syrup soaks into every layer, making each bite even more tender and flavorful.
The first time I made Rose Milk Cake, I was captivated by how such simple ingredients could come together to create something so luxurious. As the cake baked, the sweet aroma of rose filled the kitchen, and I couldn’t wait to try it. The syrup soaked into the sponge perfectly, and the cake became wonderfully moist. The first bite was pure magic—sweet, floral, and creamy, with just the right amount of decadence.
What I love most about Rose Milk Cake is how versatile it is. It’s a perfect dessert for a festive occasion, like a wedding or special celebration, but it’s equally wonderful for a quiet afternoon tea or to share with friends. You can garnish it with fresh rose petals or a sprinkle of pistachios for added texture and flavor. No matter when you serve it, Rose Milk Cake is guaranteed to captivate everyone who takes a bite, leaving a lasting impression with its beautiful blend of rose and milk.
Perfect for:
- Celebratory events
- Special occasions like birthdays and weddings
- Tea time or dessert after dinner
- Lovers of floral-flavored treats
- Those seeking a refreshing, exotic twist on traditional cakes
Why You’ll Love This Rose Milk Cake Recipe
Here’s why Rose Milk Cake will become your favorite dessert:
- Floral Essence: The subtle, fragrant taste of rose infused throughout the cake and syrup adds a beautiful and unique flavor that’s both soothing and refreshing.
- Soft and Spongy: The cake has a delicate, airy texture that absorbs the rose milk syrup, creating a moist, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Perfect for All Ages: Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or a sophisticated event, this cake appeals to all age groups with its light sweetness and floral flavor.
- Customizable Flavor: You can adjust the rose essence to your liking, making it as subtle or as bold as you prefer.
- Quick and Easy to Prepare: This cake is simple to make, and most of the ingredients are kitchen staples, meaning you can whip it up in no time for any occasion.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Baking Time: 30-35 minutes
- Chilling Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 8-10 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 4g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 8g
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make your Rose Milk Cake:
For the Cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup whole milk
- ¼ cup rose water or rose essence
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup yogurt (optional, for added moisture)
Rose Milk Syrup:
- 1 ¼ cups whole milk
- 2 tablespoons rose water or rose essence
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon condensed milk (optional, for richness)
- 1 teaspoon cardamom powder (optional, for an extra layer of flavor)
For Garnish:
- Rose petals (edible, optional)
- Crushed pistachios or almonds (optional)
Ingredient Highlights
- Rose Water: This key ingredient imparts a floral, aromatic flavor that is central to the cake. Use pure rose water or rose essence for the best results.
- Whole Milk: Milk in both the cake and syrup ensures a moist texture and creamy sweetness.
- Butter and Yogurt: The combination of butter and yogurt keeps the cake rich, tender, and soft.
- Sugar and Condensed Milk: These sweeteners help create a syrup that soaks into the cake, making it extra moist and flavorful.
- Cardamom Powder (Optional): Adding cardamom can enhance the floral notes of the rose and give the cake a subtle spice.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how to make Rose Milk Cake:
Make the Cake Batter:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8-inch square or round baking pan.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes using an electric mixer.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Then add the rose water and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Milk: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined. If using, fold in yogurt for extra moisture.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Rose Milk Syrup:
- Heat the Milk: In a saucepan, combine the whole milk, rose water (or essence), and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is dissolved.
- Add Condensed Milk (Optional): For a richer syrup, add condensed milk and continue to cook for 2-3 minutes. If you want an extra hint of spice, add cardamom powder and stir.
- Cool the Syrup: Once the syrup is ready, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool slightly.
Soak the Cake:
- Soak the Cake: Once the cake has cooled to room temperature, use a skewer or fork to poke holes all over the surface of the cake. Slowly pour the rose milk syrup over the cake, ensuring that it is evenly absorbed. Let it soak for 30 minutes before serving.
- Garnish: Optionally, garnish the cake with edible rose petals and crushed pistachios or almonds for added flavor and elegance.
How to Serve Rose Milk Cake
Rose Milk Cake is a beautiful dessert that can be served in many ways:
- At a Special Gathering: Serve as a dessert at weddings, birthdays, or tea parties for a fragrant, indulgent treat.
- With a Cup of Tea: Pair with a warm cup of masala chai or herbal tea for a complete experience.
- As a Light Afternoon Dessert: The delicate flavors make it perfect for a light afternoon snack, enjoyed with a glass of iced tea or lemonade.
- For Festive Occasions: The soft texture and floral aroma make it a perfect addition to festive gatherings like Eid, Diwali, or Christmas.
- With Fresh Fruit: Serve with a side of fresh berries or citrus fruits to balance the sweetness and add a refreshing touch.
Additional Tips for Rose Milk Cake
Here are some tips to ensure your Rose Milk Cake is perfect every time:
- Use Fresh Rose Water: Fresh rose water gives the best flavor and fragrance, so choose a high-quality, natural product for the best results.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can make the cake dense. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a light, airy texture.
- Soak the Cake Slowly: Pour the syrup in stages, allowing it to absorb into the cake fully. This ensures the cake is perfectly moist without being soggy.
- Let the Cake Cool Before Adding Syrup: Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes before soaking it in syrup to prevent it from becoming too soggy.
- Make it in Advance: Rose Milk Cake can be made a day ahead to allow the syrup to fully soak in and the flavors to meld together.
Recipe Variations for Rose Milk Cake
Here are 10 variations you can try for Rose Milk Cake:
- Coconut Rose Milk Cake: Add shredded coconut to the cake batter for a tropical twist.
- Saffron Rose Milk Cake: Infuse the syrup with saffron strands for a richer, more luxurious flavor.
- Chocolate Rose Milk Cake: Add cocoa powder to the cake batter for a chocolatey variation.
- Almond Rose Milk Cake: Fold in ground almonds into the cake batter for added richness and flavor.
- Honey Rose Milk Cake: Replace sugar with honey in the syrup for a more natural sweetness.
- Pistachio Rose Milk Cake: Add ground pistachios to the batter or sprinkle on top for a nutty flavor.
- Lemon Rose Milk Cake: Add lemon zest to the cake batter for a citrusy contrast to the floral rose flavor.
- Rose and Lavender Milk Cake: Infuse the syrup with lavender for a unique blend of floral flavors.
- Cardamom Rose Milk Cake: Add cardamom to both the cake batter and the syrup for a warm, aromatic taste.
- Rose Milk Cupcakes: Make individual rose milk cupcakes instead of a large cake for easier serving at parties.
Freezing and Storage
- Freezing: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cake before adding the syrup. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw and soak in the syrup.
- Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. The cake will stay moist and flavorful.
Special Equipment for Rose Milk Cake
Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Rose Milk Cake easier:
- Electric Mixer: To cream the butter and sugar, and beat the eggs smoothly.
- Cake Pan: A square or round 8×8-inch pan works well for this cake.
- Whisk: For mixing dry ingredients and beating eggs.
- Saucepan: For making the rose milk syrup.
- Sifter: For sifting dry ingredients like flour and baking powder to ensure an even, lump-free batter.
FAQ Section for Rose Milk Cake
- Can I use artificial rose essence instead of rose water?
Yes, you can use rose essence as a substitute for rose water. Just ensure the essence is of good quality and not too overpowering. - Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, the cake can be made a day ahead and soaked in syrup. This will allow the flavors to meld and the cake to absorb all the syrup for a moist texture. - Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version of this cake. - Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?
Yes, you can use low-fat milk or almond milk as a substitute, but the texture and richness may be slightly different. - Can I add more rose water to the cake?
Yes, feel free to adjust the amount of rose water to your liking for a stronger floral flavor.
Rose Milk Cake
Rose Milk Cake is a fragrant, tender dessert that combines the soothing flavors of rose and milk with a soft, spongy cake. This dessert is inspired by the classic rose milk drink, a popular treat in many parts of the world, particularly in South Asia. The cake itself is moist, infused with rose essence, and soaked in a rose milk syrup that makes each bite melt in your mouth. Whether you’re preparing it for a festive occasion or a special celebration, Rose Milk Cake will surely delight your senses and leave a lasting impression.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
- Category: desserts
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup whole milk
- ¼ cup rose water or rose essence
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup yogurt (optional, for added moisture)
For the Rose Milk Syrup:
- 1 ¼ cups whole milk
- 2 tablespoons rose water or rose essence
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon condensed milk (optional, for richness)
- 1 teaspoon cardamom powder (optional, for an extra layer of flavor)
For Garnish:
- Rose petals (edible, optional)
- Crushed pistachios or almonds (optional)
Instructions
Make the Cake Batter:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8-inch square or round baking pan.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes using an electric mixer.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Then add the rose water and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Milk: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined. If using, fold in yogurt for extra moisture.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Rose Milk Syrup:
- Heat the Milk: In a saucepan, combine the whole milk, rose water (or essence), and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is dissolved.
- Add Condensed Milk (Optional): For a richer syrup, add condensed milk and continue to cook for 2-3 minutes. If you want an extra hint of spice, add cardamom powder and stir.
- Cool the Syrup: Once the syrup is ready, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool slightly.
Soak the Cake:
- Soak the Cake: Once the cake has cooled to room temperature, use a skewer or fork to poke holes all over the surface of the cake. Slowly pour the rose milk syrup over the cake, ensuring that it is evenly absorbed. Let it soak for 30 minutes before serving.
- Garnish: Optionally, garnish the cake with edible rose petals and crushed pistachios or almonds for added flavor and elegance.
Equipment
Magic Bullet Blender, Small, Silver, 11 Piece Set
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Buy Now →Nutrition
- Calories: 250-300 kcal
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 4g
Conclusion
This Recipe is a fragrant, elegant dessert that combines the delicate taste of rose with the comforting richness of milk and cake. Its soft, spongy texture soaked in rose milk syrup makes it a refreshing, indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply want to try something new, this cake will leave a lasting impression with its unique flavor and light sweetness.
With its easy preparation and room for customization, Rose Milk Cake is a delightful dessert that everyone will enjoy. Try it out for your next gathering, and watch as it quickly becomes a favorite!
I can’t wait to see how you make this cake your own! Be sure to tag me on Instagram when you try it, and leave a comment to share how you personalized it. Happy baking!