Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies
Highlighted under: Indulgent Baking Ideas
Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies
These Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavor of chocolate with the crunchy texture of walnuts. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, they are sure to become a favorite in your household.
Why You'll Love These Cookies
- Irresistible combination of chocolate and nuts
- Soft and chewy texture with a slight crunch
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for any occasion
The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion
Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies are a timeless classic that fit perfectly into any setting, whether it's a casual family gathering, a holiday celebration, or a simple afternoon snack. Their delightful combination of chocolate and nuts makes them a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both kids and adults alike. You can serve them warm, straight from the oven, or let them cool for a more traditional cookie experience. Either way, they are sure to bring smiles and satisfaction to all who indulge.
These cookies are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily modify the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions. For instance, substitute pecans for walnuts if you prefer a different nutty flavor, or use dark chocolate chips for a richer chocolate experience. The possibilities are endless, making these cookies a staple in your baking repertoire.
Baking Tips for Success
To achieve the perfect texture in your Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies, it's crucial to measure your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale can help ensure precision, especially when it comes to flour and sugar. Additionally, make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for optimal creaming with the sugars. This step is key to achieving light and fluffy cookies that have the perfect chewy consistency.
Another important tip is to avoid overmixing the dough once you add the dry ingredients. Mixing just until combined helps maintain the cookies' desirable texture and prevents them from becoming tough. Lastly, keep an eye on the baking time; every oven is different, so start checking your cookies a minute or two before the suggested time for the best results.
Storing and Freezing Your Cookies
If you find yourself with leftover Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies, storing them properly will help maintain their freshness. Place the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, where they can stay fresh for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Simply place the cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
When you're ready to enjoy your frozen cookies, allow them to thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up. This way, you can enjoy that fresh-baked taste even weeks after making them. They make for a quick and delightful treat whenever a craving strikes!
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chocolate chips
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Combine Mixtures
Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
Add Chocolate and Walnuts
Fold in the chocolate chips and chopped walnuts until evenly distributed.
Bake the Cookies
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
Cool and Enjoy
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Ingredient Spotlight: Walnuts
Walnuts are not just a delicious addition to these cookies; they also offer a variety of health benefits. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, they contribute to heart health and can help reduce inflammation in the body. Incorporating walnuts into your diet can also support brain health, making them a smart choice for both flavor and nutrition.
In addition to their health benefits, walnuts add a satisfying crunch and earthy flavor to your cookies. They pair beautifully with chocolate, enhancing the overall taste experience. If you're looking to boost the nutritional profile of your baking, don't hesitate to incorporate more walnuts into your recipes.
Variations to Try
While the classic Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies are undeniably delicious, there are endless variations you can try to keep things exciting. Consider adding a pinch of sea salt on top before baking for a delightful contrast to the sweetness. You might also experiment with different types of chocolate chips, such as white chocolate or peanut butter chips, to create a unique flavor combination.
Another fun variation is to incorporate oatmeal into the dough for added texture and fiber. Simply replace a cup of flour with quick oats for an oatmeal chocolate chip walnut cookie that everyone will love. These variations not only keep your baking fresh but also cater to different tastes and preferences.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use different nuts?
Yes, you can substitute walnuts with pecans or any nut of your choice.
→ How should I store the cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.
→ What can I do if my cookies are too flat?
Make sure your butter is not too soft and consider chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies
Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Indulgent Baking Ideas
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 24 cookies
What You'll Need
For the Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chocolate chips
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
Fold in the chocolate chips and chopped walnuts until evenly distributed.
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 90mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 2g