These buttery walnut cookies are a delightful and easy-to-make treat, perfect for any occasion. With a tender crumb and a subtle sweetness, these cookies melt in your mouth while providing a satisfying crunch from the walnuts on top. The dough is enriched with butter, giving the cookies a rich and buttery flavor, while a hint of vanilla adds warmth and depth. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering or simply to enjoy with your tea or coffee, these cookies are sure to be a hit. Plus, they are simple enough for beginner bakers, yet delicious enough to impress everyone.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Dough (Makes ~18 cookies):
340 g all-purpose flour
120 g sugar
200 g unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
1 egg
1 tsp baking powder
Salt to taste (a pinch or 1/4 tsp)
0.5 g vanilla powder or vanilla extract (optional, for extra flavor)
For the Topping:
1 egg (for egg wash)
100 g chopped walnuts or other nuts (almonds, hazelnuts, or pecans work well too)
Steps to Make Buttery Walnut Cookies
Prepare the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer or whisk.
Add the egg and vanilla (if using) to the butter mixture, and mix until fully combined.
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.
Shape the Cookies:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the dough to a thickness of about 5 mm.
Use a cookie cutter (about 8.5 cm in diameter) to cut out round shapes from the dough. The cookies should be about 2.5 cm thick for the best texture.
Place the cut-out cookies onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one to allow for slight spreading during baking.
Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, beat 1 egg to make an egg wash.
Brush the top of each cookie with the beaten egg to give them a shiny, golden finish when baked.
Sprinkle the chopped walnuts over each cookie, gently pressing them into the dough to ensure they stick during baking.
Bake the Cookies:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies at 180°C (350°F) for 13-15 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown.
The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the cookies after the 12-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve and Enjoy:
Once the cookies have cooled, they are ready to be served! Enjoy them with your favorite beverage, or pack them as a sweet gift for friends and family.
Nutrition Facts (Per Cookie, Approximate)
Calories: 220 kcal
Carbohydrates: 23 g
Protein: 4 g
Fat: 13 g
Saturated Fat: 6 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 8 g
Sodium: 70 mg
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use other types of nuts for the topping? Absolutely! Feel free to substitute walnuts with almonds, hazelnuts, pecans, or any other nuts of your choice. You can even try a mix of nuts for added texture and flavor.
What if I don’t have a cookie cutter? If you don’t have a cookie cutter, you can use a glass or a round jar lid to cut out the cookies. You can also shape the dough into balls and flatten them slightly with your hands for a more rustic look.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. Simply wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let the dough sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before rolling and cutting.
What if I want a stronger vanilla flavor? If you want a more pronounced vanilla flavor, feel free to add up to 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dough. Alternatively, you can increase the amount of vanilla powder if you prefer.
Can I freeze these cookies? Yes, you can freeze both the dough and the baked cookies. To freeze the dough, roll it into a log, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, slice and bake as needed. To freeze baked cookies, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Tips for Making the Best Buttery Walnut Cookies
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter and egg are at room temperature before starting the recipe. This helps the ingredients mix together more easily and results in a smoother dough.
Chill the Dough for Best Results: If the dough feels too soft to work with, chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before rolling it out. Chilled dough is easier to handle and holds its shape better during baking.
Don’t Overbake the Cookies: For soft and tender cookies, bake them just until the edges are golden. Overbaking can cause the cookies to become too dry or crunchy.
Customize the Flavor: You can add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor. Alternatively, add some lemon or orange zest for a bright citrus note.
Get Creative with the Topping: While walnuts are a classic choice, you can get creative with the topping by adding sesame seeds, shredded coconut, or even drizzling melted chocolate over the baked cookies for a decadent touch.
Storage Tips
In the Refrigerator: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If your kitchen is warm, you can refrigerate them to keep them fresher for longer.
In the Freezer: Both the unbaked dough and the baked cookies can be frozen for longer storage. For unbaked dough, shape it into a log, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze. Slice and bake as needed. Baked cookies should be completely cooled before being stored in the freezer. They will last for up to 2 months in a well-sealed container.
Conclusion
Buttery Walnut Cookies with a Hint of Vanilla are a perfect balance of crisp edges and soft, melt-in-your-mouth centers. With a crunchy walnut topping and subtle sweetness from the vanilla, these cookies are a versatile treat that can be enjoyed any time of day. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering or just indulging in a homemade snack, these cookies are simple to make and sure to please. Plus, they’re easy to customize with your favorite toppings or flavors, making them a great addition to your cookie repertoire. Enjoy baking and sharing these delicious treats!