Are you ready to bake up a batch of cookies that are as unique and flavorful as they are beautiful? Then look no further! This recipe for black walnut cookies delivers a rich, intensely nutty experience that will leave you wanting more. These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy nights in, or simply satisfying that sweet tooth craving. They’re surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner bakers, making them a perfect addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals (in moderation, of course!).
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups black walnuts, coarsely chopped
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. This simple step prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup – a key element in any easy recipe.
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Cream Butter & Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. A stand mixer works wonders, but a good old-fashioned hand mixer will do the job just fine.
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Add Eggs & Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
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Combine Wet & Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
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Fold in Walnuts: Gently fold in the chopped black walnuts.
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Scoop & Bake: Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
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Cool & Enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for the Best Black Walnut Cookies:
- Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for optimal creaming. This is a crucial step for achieving that light and fluffy texture.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
- Fresh Walnuts: Using fresh, high-quality black walnuts will significantly enhance the flavor of your cookies.
- Adjust Baking Time: Oven temperatures can vary, so keep an eye on your cookies and adjust the baking time as needed.
Variations:
- Chocolate Chip Addition: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips for a delightful twist on a classic.
- Spiced Cookies: Incorporate ½ teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, comforting flavor.
- Glaze it Up: Drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze over the cooled cookies for an extra touch of sweetness.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 8-10g
- Sugar: 15-20g
These black walnut cookies are a fantastic addition to your homemade cooking repertoire. They’re a delicious dish, relatively healthy, and perfect for sharing. Enjoy the process, and savor every bite of these delightfully nutty treats!