Okay, let’s just say it. Sometimes plain water is about as exciting as watching paint dry. Enter: And sometimes you just need some even more hydrating, especially in the summer. That’s why I whipped up this Cucumber Rose Cooler. And to me, it feels like a spa day in a glass, minus the overpriced robe. It’s refreshing, it feels kind of fancy, and it’s packed with all kinds of health benefits. And (bonus) it’s stupid easy to make. Like, so easy I almost feel bad calling it a recipe. Almost.
Why This Recipe Works
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Cucumber juice is all about hydration. It’s what water would drink if it were thirsty.
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Lime juice really zhuzhes up the mellow cucumber in a way that just feels right.
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Honey/maple syrup allows you to add sweetness to taste. A little. A lot. Whatever you want. It’s your drink and we’re not judging.
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Rose water makes it fancy. If you’re looking to add some floral notes without turning your drink into your grandma’s perfume, this is the way to go.
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Mint keeps it fresh. It’s really not a cooler without the mint.
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Sparkling water brings it all together. Static water is fine, but fizz is where it’s at.
The Health Benefits of the Cucumber Rose Cooler
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Cucumber: Super hydrating. Loaded with antioxidants. Easy on the digestive system.
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Lime: High in vitamin C. Great for your skin, AND it helps balance your internal pH.
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Mint: This unassuming lil herb has digestion-aiding super powers.
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Honey/Maple Syrup: These are natural sweeteners that also offer trace minerals, while also allowing you to avoid artificial sweeteners.
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Rose water: It’s anti-inflammatory and it may even help to calm stress.
Ingredients
For the drink:
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2 cups cucumber juice (from about 2 large cucumbers)
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Juice of 2 limes
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2–4 tsp honey or maple syrup (totally optional, sweeten to taste)
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2 cups cold water or sparkling water
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½ cup fresh mint leaves
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Ice cubes
For the garnish:
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Cucumber slices
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Edible rose petals
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Mint sprigs
Substitutes (Because Life Happens)
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No rose water? Use a splash of elderflower syrup or even some orange blossom water, but start small. A little bit of floral goes a long way.
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Out of limes? Though it’s a slightly different vibe, lemon works in a pinch.
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Skipping sweetener? That’s okay! Cucumber and lime are super refreshing on their own.
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No sparkling water? Regular cold water works great too. You can even use coconut water for a tropical twist.
How to Make It
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Juice the cucumbers
Peel, chop, and blend them, then strain through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth so you can get all the pulp out. -
Mix it up
In a pitcher, combine your cucumber juice, rose water, lime juice, and sweetener (if you’re using it), then stir in cold water or sparkling water. -
Add mint & ice
Divide the ice cubes and torn mint leaves among four glasses. The tearing is an important step because it releases the minty oils, so be sure not to skip it. -
Pour and serve
Pour the mixture evenly into the glasses and give it a stir. -
Garnish
Don’t forget to top it all off with cucumber slices, some edible rose petals, and a sprig of mint.
Tips to Make It Extra (Without the Extra Work)
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Like your drinks ice cold? Chill your glasses ahead of time. It’ll keep your drink cold for longer.
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Make a big batch and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just be sure to leave out the ice and mint til you serve.
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If you’re using sparkling water, remember to add it right before serving to keep the bubbles bubbly.
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If you’re feelin’ spicy, you might want to try to add a tiny slice of jalapeño!
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Want to make it an alcoholic drink? Add a splash of gin or vodka to turn it into a cocktail.
FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time?
Definitely! Just be sure to leave out the mint and ice until you’re about to serve.
Can I use bottled cucumber juice?
You can, but fresh is DEFINITELY better. Bottled cucumber juice can be pasteurized or bitter.
Is rose water safe to drink?
Yes, as long as it’s food-grade. Always check the label first, and if it smells like soap, you’ve added too much.
How sweet should I make it?
That’s all up to you, baby-boo. Start with a little sweetener and taste it. Just remember you can always add, but you can’t remove it.
What if I don’t have edible rose petals?
These are totally optional. They’re just there to make you feel fancy, but you’re still fancy without them.
Did You Make This Drink Your Own?
If so, we want to know! What did you add? What did you leave behind? Share your custom version so we can swap tip and tricks and make this the best drink that it can be.

Cucumber Rose Cooler
Ingredients
For the Drinks
- 2 cups cucumber juice from about 2 large cucumbers
- 2 limes
- 2 - 4 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 2 cups sparkling water
- ½ cup fresh mint leaves
- ice cubes
For the Garnish
- 4 cucumber slices
- edible roses
- 4 mint sprigs
Instructions
- In a pitcher, combine cucumber juice, rose water, lime juice, and sweetener (if using). Stir in cold water or sparkling water.
- Add ice and torn mint leaves to four glasses. Pour the cucumber rose mixture evenly among them.
- Garnish with cucumber slices, mint, and edible rose petals if desired.
Nutrition
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