There’s a certain joy that fills the air when the sweet aroma of freshly baked Walnut Chocolate Chip Cookies wafts through the kitchen. As the golden edges meld with gooey chocolate and crunchy bits of walnuts, you can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia wash over you. This delightful treat doesn’t just satisfy your sweet tooth; it’s a perfect companion for those cozy evenings spent curled up with a good book or when you need a little pick-me-up after a long day.
In the spirit of making homemade treats that leave fast food far behind, this cookie recipe strikes the ideal balance between simplicity and indulgence. Whether you’re hosting friends, surprising your family, or just treating yourself, these cookies promise to delight with every bite. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to whip up! Let’s dive into the secrets of crafting the perfect Walnut Chocolate Chip Cookies that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why are these Walnut Chocolate Chip Cookies a must-try?
Irresistible flavor: The rich combination of buttery cookie dough, chocolate chips, and crunchy walnuts creates a mouthwatering experience that no one can resist.
Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers will shine in the kitchen.
Perfect for sharing: Whether it’s a cozy night in or a gathering with friends, these cookies are sure to impress and delight everyone.
Versatile treat: Customize with additional ingredients or swap out walnuts for your favorite nuts!
And don’t forget to chill the dough; it enhances the flavors, making these cookies even more delicious!
Walnut Chocolate Chip Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
• All-Purpose Flour – 2 1/2 cups – This forms the backbone of your cookies, providing that perfect texture.
• Cornstarch – 2 teaspoons – Adds tenderness to your Walnut Chocolate Chip Cookies, making them delightfully soft!
• Salt – 3/4 teaspoon – Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors in the cookie.
• Baking Powder – 1 teaspoon – Helps the cookies rise to a nice fluffy texture.
• Baking Soda – 1 teaspoon – Works with the acids in the recipe to create a light bake.
• Unsalted Butter – 1 cup – Always use unsalted for better control over the cookie’s savory notes.
• Granulated Sugar – 1/2 cup – Adds sweetness and helps create a chewy texture.
• Brown Sugar – 1 1/2 cups – Provides moisture and a rich, caramelized flavor to your cookies.
• Large Egg – 1 – Acts as a binder and helps create the chewy aspect of the cookies.
• Large Egg Yolks – 2 – Adding extra yolks gives richness and enhances the cookie’s texture.
• Pure Vanilla Extract – 1 tablespoon – A splash of warmth that elevates the overall flavor profile.
For the Chocolate and Nuts
• Chocolate Chips – 2 cups – Use semi-sweet for a classic taste; you can mix in dark chocolate for a richer flavor!
• Walnuts (Halves and Pieces) – 1 – 1 1/2 cups – These add a delightful crunch and a hint of nutty goodness, making your cookies truly stand out.
How to Make Walnut Chocolate Chip Cookies
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.
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Whisk together the dry ingredients in a medium-sized bowl. Combine 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of cornstarch, 3/4 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1 teaspoon baking soda; set aside to blend the flavors.
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Cream the butter and sugars. In the bowl of a mixer, mix 1 cup of unsalted butter, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 1/2 cups of brown sugar on high for 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy; this creates a light base for your cookies.
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Incorporate the eggs and vanilla. Add 1 large egg and 2 large egg yolks one at a time, mixing until fully incorporated, then add 1 tablespoon of pure vanilla extract and beat until smooth for that delicious flavor.
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Combine the dry and wet ingredients. Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually add in the flour mixture in three intervals, mixing after each addition until everything is well combined.
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Fold in the chocolate and nuts. Gently stir in 1 1/2 cups of chocolate chips and walnuts, ensuring every bite has that wonderful chocolatey nutty goodness.
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Chill the dough. Place the cookie dough in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (2 hours is better) to enhance the flavors and prevent spreading while baking.
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Scoop the dough. Use a tablespoon to scoop cookie dough into balls and place them on a parchment paper-lined cookie sheet, leaving at least 1 1/2 inches apart. Press a few extra chocolate chips on top for extra delight!
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Bake in the preheated oven for 10-13 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them; you want that perfect balance of soft and chewy!
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Cool before serving. Allow cookies to rest on the baking sheet for at least 4-5 minutes before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Walnut Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance; simply refrigerate it wrapped in plastic wrap or an airtight container to maintain freshness. This chilling not only saves you time on busy weeknights but also enhances the flavors. You can also scoop and freeze the dough balls in a single layer; once firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw; just add a couple of extra minutes to your bake time. With these make-ahead options, you’ll have delicious homemade cookies ready with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Walnut Chocolate Chip Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They’ll stay soft and scrumptious, ready to enjoy anytime!
Fridge: If you need to store them longer, keep them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to a week. Just let them come back to room temperature before indulging.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds!
Reheating: To bring back that fresh-baked feel, pop cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. Enjoy your favorite Walnut Chocolate Chip Cookies warm and gooey!
Expert Tips for Walnut Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Chill Time Matters: The longer you chill the dough, the better the flavor and texture. Aim for at least 2 hours for the best results.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature to achieve a smooth, well-blended dough, which helps prevent dense cookies.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping it directly from the bag to avoid using too much, which can lead to dry cookies.
• Don’t Overmix: After adding the flour mixture, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies; you want them soft and chewy.
• Watch the Bake Time: Start checking your cookies at 10 minutes; they should be lightly golden around the edges and soft in the center for the perfect Walnut Chocolate Chip Cookies.
Walnut Chocolate Chip Cookies Variations
Feel free to explore these tasty twists that can elevate your Walnut Chocolate Chip Cookies to new heights!
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Nut-Free: Omit the walnuts and replace them with an equal amount of oats for a chewy texture without the nuts.
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Vegan: Swap butter for coconut oil, use flax eggs instead of egg and egg yolks, and choose vegan chocolate chips for a plant-based version.
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Spiced Twist: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, spicy aroma that complements the chocolate and walnuts beautifully.
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Extra Crunch: Mix in 1/2 cup of toffee bits or crushed pretzels for added crunch and a delightful sweet-salty contrast.
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Dried Fruits: Toss in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries or cherries to add a burst of fruity goodness that balances the richness of the chocolate.
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Chocolate Lovers: Replace 1 cup of the chocolate chips with dark chocolate chunks for an intense chocolate flavor that will satisfy any chocoholic.
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Coconut Dreams: Incorporate 1/2 cup of shredded coconut for a tropical twist that pairs wonderfully with the flavors of chocolate and walnuts.
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Heat Things Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or 1 teaspoon of chili powder to the batter for a surprising kick that enhances the sweetness of the cookies.
What to Serve with Walnut Chocolate Chip Cookies?
Imagine a cozy gathering, the delightful aroma of cookies mingling with warm coffee or tea, creating a perfect setting for heartfelt conversations.
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Freshly Brewed Coffee: Its rich, bold flavors and warmth beautifully complement the sweetness and chocolatey notes in these cookies.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of this creamy delight adds a delightful contrast, melting into warm cookies for a decadent treat. Treat yourself to this delightful pairing!
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Cold Milk: The classic duo, this refreshing beverage balances out the sweetness and enhances every bite of your cookies.
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Chocolate Ganache Dip: An extra layer of indulgence, a silky chocolate dip makes these cookies even more luxurious, perfect for special occasions.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing side of fruits offers a burst of freshness and color, beautifully balancing the richness of the cookies.
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Nutty Hot Chocolate: The nutty flavors in this warm drink echo the walnuts in your cookies, creating a harmonious taste experience.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses can surprisingly harmonize with the sweet and nutty cookies, offering a sophisticated twist to your dessert spread.
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Quick Chocolate Mousse: Serve this light, fluffy dessert for a sweet yet airy contrast to the dense richness of the cookies.
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Caramel Sauce: A drizzle over the cookies turns them into an extravagant treat, perfect for indulgent cravings.
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Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of herbal tea creates a calming balance, enhancing the experience of enjoying freshly baked cookies.
Walnut Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right walnuts for my cookies?
When choosing walnuts, look for fresh, unsalted walnuts with no dark spots or rancid smell. They should be firm and slightly oily. If you can find them, I recommend using roasted walnuts for added flavor, but raw will work just fine too!
How should I store my Walnut Chocolate Chip Cookies?
Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal softness and flavor. If you want to store them for a longer period, refrigerate them in a sealed container for up to a week, but remember to bring them to room temperature before enjoying!
Can I freeze my Walnut Chocolate Chip Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds for that freshly-baked taste.
What if my cookie dough is too sticky to scoop?
If you find your cookie dough is sticky, it could be a sign that the dough needs more chilling time. Try refrigerating it for an additional 30 minutes. If it’s still too sticky, you can add a touch more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
Can I make these cookies without nuts?
Of course! If you’re catering to nut allergies or simply prefer a nut-free version, you can omit the walnuts entirely. Alternatively, you could substitute them with a different mix-in, such as dried fruit or chocolate chunks, to keep the cookies interesting!
How do I achieve the perfect cookie texture?
Chilling the dough for at least 1 hour (2 is optimal!) is key for achieving that chewy center and golden edges. I recommend using room temperature ingredients for better blending and avoiding overmixing once you add the flour. This ensures your Walnut Chocolate Chip Cookies are everything you dream of—soft, chewy, and bursting with flavor!
Irresistible Walnut Chocolate Chip Cookies for Cozy Days
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Whisk together the dry ingredients in a bowl and set aside.
- Cream the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy.
- Incorporate the egg and yolks, then add vanilla and mix until smooth.
- Combine dry and wet ingredients gradually.
- Fold in chocolate chips and walnuts.
- Chill the dough for at least 1 hour.
- Scoop the dough onto a cookie sheet.
- Bake for 10-13 minutes until golden.
- Cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring.