Walnuts enhance various summer desserts, adding heart-healthy benefits and delightful flavors. Options include Walnut Chocolate Chip Cookies, No-Bake Walnut and Coconut Energy Bites, and decadent Walnut Brownies with Creamy Avocado Frosting. For invigorating treats, consider a Summer Berry Walnut Parfait or a Chilled Walnut and Yogurt Mousse. Additionally, a zesty Lemon Walnut Tart and a vibrant Walnut and Mint Watermelon Salad can brighten any dessert table. Discover more delicious walnut recipes that will surely impress.
Walnut Chocolate Chip Cookies
Walnut chocolate chip cookies are a delicious and nutty twist on the classic chocolate chip cookie, perfect for those who enjoy a crunchy texture and rich flavor in their desserts.
Ideal for families, gatherings, or just a sweet treat for yourself, these cookies are sure to please all ages.
With a preparation time of about 15 minutes and a baking time of 10-12 minutes, you can whip up a batch in no time!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
Cooking Steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time, ensuring they are fully incorporated.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips and chopped walnuts until evenly distributed.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Variations and Tips:
- For a chewier cookie, try refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added nutrition.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or a touch of espresso powder for a unique flavor twist.
- If you prefer a softer cookie, underbake them slightly—remove them when they are still soft in the center.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate (dark, milk, or even white chocolate) for a different taste profile.
No-Bake Walnut and Coconut Energy Bites
No-Bake Walnut and Coconut Energy Bites are a delicious and nutritious treat perfect for a summer pick-me-up or a quick snack on the go.
These bite-sized delights are ideal for those seeking healthy energy boosts, including athletes, busy professionals, and families. With just a few minutes of prep time and no need for an oven, these bites are not only simple to make but also packed with wholesome ingredients.
You can whip up a batch in approximately 15 minutes, making them a fantastic choice for a last-minute sweet craving or an afterschool snack for the kids.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup walnuts, finely chopped
- 1 cup pitted dates, packed
- ½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- ¼ cup almond butter (or nut butter of choice)
- 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Extra shredded coconut for rolling (optional)
Instructions:
- In a food processor, combine the finely chopped walnuts, pitted dates, shredded coconut, almond butter, honey, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Pulse until the mixture is well-combined and sticky, stopping to scrape the sides if necessary.
- Once the mixture holds together when pressed between your fingers, take about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball with your hands. Repeat this process until you have used all of the mixture.
- To enhance the flavor and presentation, you can roll each energy bite in extra shredded coconut for an appealing finish.
- Place the completed energy bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to firm up.
- Once they are ready, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Variations & Tips:
- Feel free to substitute walnuts with other nuts like almonds or cashews to customize the flavor.
- Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist or include chia seeds or ground flaxseeds for added nutrition.
- For an extra zing, consider incorporating a sprinkle of cinnamon or an optional splash of almond extract for a unique flavor profile.
- These energy bites are perfect for meal prepping; double the recipe and freeze half for later use. Just let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying!
Walnut Brownies With Creamy Avocado Frosting
These Walnut Brownies with Creamy Avocado Frosting are a delectable treat that combines rich flavors with healthier ingredients, making them perfect for summer gatherings or simply indulging at home.
Ideal for those looking to enjoy a sweet dessert without the guilt, these brownies are packed with protein, healthy fats, and a touch of sweetness from natural sources.
Preparation time is approximately 30 minutes, with an additional cooling time of around 1 hour.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (for frosting)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (for frosting)
- 1 tablespoon almond milk (for frosting)
- Optional: extra walnuts or cacao nibs for topping
Cooking Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir until well mixed.
- In another bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until just combined. Fold in the chopped walnuts.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs (avoid overbaking).
- Allow the brownies to cool in the baking dish for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely (about 1 hour).
- While the brownies are cooling, prepare the avocado frosting. In a blender or food processor, combine the ripe avocado, cocoa powder, maple syrup, and almond milk. Blend until creamy and smooth.
- Once the brownies are cool, spread the creamy avocado frosting evenly over the top.
- For extra flair, top with additional chopped walnuts or cacao nibs before serving.
Variations and Tips:
- For a more intense chocolate flavor, you can add chocolate chips to the brownie batter.
- If you’re looking for a nut-free option, substitute the almond flour with oat flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour.
- Feel free to experiment with other toppings such as shredded coconut, or fresh fruit, for added flavor and texture.
- To store, keep the brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
The frosting thickens in the fridge, and the flavors deepen, enhancing the treat!
Summer Berry Walnut Parfait
The Summer Berry Walnut Parfait is a delightful, no-bake dessert perfect for warm weather gatherings. This invigorating treat layers creamy yogurt, fresh summer berries, and crunchy walnuts, making it ideal for health-conscious individuals, families, or anyone looking to add a bit of sweetness to their summer days.
With a preparation time of just 15 minutes, it’s an easy and visually stunning dessert that can be enjoyed anytime!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups Greek yogurt (plain or flavored)
- 1 cup mixed summer berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries)
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Yogurt: In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt with honey or maple syrup (if using) and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and well integrated.
- Layer the Parfait: In serving glasses or bowls, begin by adding a layer of the yogurt mixture (about a half-inch thick).
- Add Berries: Follow with a layer of mixed summer berries, gently pressing them into the yogurt for better stability.
- Sprinkle Walnuts: Next, sprinkle a layer of chopped walnuts over the berries.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layers (yogurt, berries, walnuts) until the glasses are filled, finishing with a layer of berries on top.
- Garnish: Top with a few extra walnuts and a sprig of fresh mint for a pop of color and freshness.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the parfaits for at least 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
Variations and Tips:
- Berry Options: Feel free to use any combination of your favorite berries or even add sliced peaches or mango for variety.
- Nut Alternatives: Swap walnuts for almonds, pecans, or granola if you prefer.
- Yogurt Choices: Experiment with flavored yogurts like vanilla or berry to enhance the taste.
- Vegan Version: Use coconut yogurt and substitute honey with agave syrup or omit it altogether for a vegan option.
- Presentation: Serve in mason jars for a rustic look, or parfait glasses for an elegant touch.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the parfaits a few hours in advance; just keep them covered in the refrigerator until it’s time to serve.
Enjoy this vibrant and nutritious Summer Berry Walnut Parfait as a delightful end to your summer meals!
Walnut Peach Crumble
A Walnut Peach Crumble is a delightful dessert that marries the sweet, juicy flavors of fresh peaches with the rich, buttery crunch of toasted walnuts. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings, family barbecues, or simply as a delicious treat to enjoy at home. It takes about 30 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to bake, making it an ideal choice for those who want a quick yet impressive dessert.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh peaches, peeled and sliced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Cooking Steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced peaches, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Gently toss until the peaches are well coated.
- In another bowl, mix the flour, oats, chopped walnuts, brown sugar, softened butter, and salt until the mixture becomes crumbly.
- Spread the peach mixture evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the crumble mixture over the peaches, covering them completely.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the peaches are bubbling.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Variations and Tips:
- For added depth of flavor, mix in a pinch of nutmeg or some vanilla extract into the peach mixture.
- You can substitute the peaches with other fruits like cherries, apples, or plums depending on your preference.
- To make it gluten-free, use almond flour or oat flour in place of regular flour, and confirm that the rolled oats are certified gluten-free.
- For a crunchier topping, toast the walnuts briefly before mixing them into the crumble.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of yogurt for a more decadent dessert.
Grilled Pineapple With Walnut Caramel Sauce
Grilled Pineapple with Walnut Caramel Sauce is a delightful summer dessert that combines the sweetness of caramelized pineapple with the rich, nutty flavor of walnuts.
This dish is perfect for outdoor gatherings, barbecues, or as a revitalizing end to a summer meal.
With a preparation time of just 15 minutes and a cooking time of approximately 10 minutes, it’s a quick and easy treat that will impress your guests.
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe pineapple
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for serving
Cooking Steps:
- Preheat your grill to medium heat.
- Cut the pineapple in half lengthwise and remove the core. Cut each half into slices about 1 inch thick.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, butter, and salt. Stir until melted and bubbly.
- Add the chopped walnuts to the caramel sauce and continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly until the walnuts are coated and toasted.
- Place the pineapple slices on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are lightly charred and caramelized.
- Once the pineapple is grilled, remove it from the grill and drizzle warm walnut caramel sauce over the top.
- Serve immediately, optionally topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Variations & Tips:
- For added flavor, sprinkle some cinnamon or ginger on the pineapple slices before grilling.
- You can replace walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
- To make this dish more tropical, serve grilled pineapple with a scoop of coconut sorbet instead of vanilla ice cream.
- If you want a lower sugar option, consider substituting the brown sugar with a sugar alternative suitable for cooking.
- For a more suitable serving method, you can cut the grilled pineapple into bite-sized pieces and serve it in small bowls drizzled with caramel sauce.
Walnut Banana Bread
Walnut Banana Bread is a delightful and moist quick bread that combines the rich flavors of ripe bananas with crunchy walnuts, making it a perfect treat for breakfast or a sweet afternoon snack.
This recipe is ideal for banana lovers and those looking to use up overripe bananas. It takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 60 minutes to bake, allowing you to indulge in a homemade delight in just over an hour!
Ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
Cooking Steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas and melted butter, stirring until well blended.
- Add the baking soda and salt to the banana mixture, stirring to incorporate.
- Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until everything is evenly combined.
- Gradually fold in the flour until just mixed; overmixing can lead to a dense bread.
- Gently stir in the chopped walnuts.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Variations & Tips:
- For added flavor, consider mixing in 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter.
- You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.
- If you prefer, you can use other nuts like pecans or almonds instead of walnuts.
- This banana bread can be frozen for up to three months. Just wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe bag.
- For an extra touch, try drizzling a simple confectioner’s sugar glaze on top after the bread has cooled.
Enjoy your delicious Walnut Banana Bread as a wholesome treat any time of the day!
Chilled Walnut and Yogurt Mousse
Chilled Walnut and Yogurt Mousse is a delightful, light dessert that combines the creamy texture of yogurt with the crunchy richness of walnuts, making it perfect for summer gatherings or a rejuvenating end to a meal. This mousse is especially ideal for those looking for a healthier dessert option, as it’s packed with protein and healthy fats from the walnuts.
The preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, with an additional chilling time of at least 2 hours to guarantee a smooth and creamy consistency.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup walnuts
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- A pinch of salt
Cooking Steps:
- Prepare the Walnuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the walnuts for about 5-7 minutes or until golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Once toasted, let them cool for a few minutes before chopping roughly.
- Make Yogurt Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth.
- Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
- Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the whipped cream into the yogurt mixture, being careful not to deflate the cream. Once fully combined, gently fold in the toasted walnuts.
- Chill the Mousse: Spoon the mousse into serving cups or bowls and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow it to set properly.
- Serve and Garnish: Once chilled, garnish with additional walnuts and a drizzle of honey, if desired. Serve cold.
Variations and Tips:
- Flavor Variations: Try adding cocoa powder for a chocolate walnut mousse or a touch of almond extract for a different flavor twist.
- Fruit Addition: Incorporate fresh berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, either in the mousse or as a topping.
- Nut Alternatives: If you’re allergic to walnuts, pecans or almonds can be great substitutes.
- Make-Ahead: This mousse can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge, making it a perfect dessert for parties.
- Presentation: Consider serving the mousse in a large bowl and letting guests scoop their own portions, or layer it with crushed biscuits for added texture.
Enjoy your Chilled Walnut and Yogurt Mousse as a rejuvenating and healthy end to any summer meal!
Walnut Chocolate Bark With Dried Fruits
Walnut chocolate bark with dried fruits is a delightful and indulgent treat that combines the rich flavors of dark chocolate with the crunchy texture of walnuts and the sweetness of dried fruits.
This dish is perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or just as a sweet snack at home. It takes about 30 minutes to prepare, plus chilling time, making it an easy yet impressive dessert for both kids and adults.
Ingredients:
- 200g dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher)
- 100g walnuts, coarsely chopped
- 100g mixed dried fruits (such as cranberries, apricots, and raisins)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Parchment paper for lining the baking tray
Cooking Steps:
1. Melt the Chocolate: Begin by chopping the dark chocolate into smaller pieces for even melting.
Place the chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water (bain-marie) or microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
2. Mix in Ingredients: Once melted, remove the bowl from heat and stir in the coarsely chopped walnuts, dried fruits, and vanilla extract if using.
Make sure the nuts and fruits are well coated with chocolate.
3. Spread on a Baking Tray: Line a baking tray (approximately 8×8 inches) with parchment paper.
Pour the chocolate mixture onto the tray and spread it out evenly with a spatula, making sure the layer is about half an inch thick.
4. Sprinkle Salt: If desired, sprinkle sea salt on top for a contrasting flavor that enhances the sweetness of the chocolate and dried fruits.
5. Chill: Place the tray in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or until the chocolate hardens completely.
6. Cut and Store: Once hardened, remove the chocolate bark from the tray and peel off the parchment paper.
Break or cut it into pieces. Store the bark in an airtight container in a cool place.
Variations and Tips:
- Nut Substitutes: Feel free to substitute walnuts with other nuts like almonds or pecans for a different flavor profile.
- Add Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Flavor Infusions: Experiment with flavored chocolates, such as orange or mint, to add a unique twist.
- Gift Idea: Package the bark in decorative bags for a lovely homemade gift.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve alongside fresh fruit or ice cream for a more elaborate dessert experience.
Enjoy your delicious walnut chocolate bark with dried fruits this summer!
Lemon Walnut Tart
The Lemon Walnut Tart is a delightful summer dessert that combines the zesty brightness of fresh lemons with the rich nuttiness of walnuts. This tart is perfect for those who love a balance of sweet and tangy flavors, making it an excellent choice for summer gatherings, picnics, or even a light after-dinner treat.
With a total preparation and baking time of about 1 hour and 15 minutes, it’s a relatively simple dessert that impresses with its elegance and taste.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- ½ cup finely chopped walnuts
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Cooking Steps:
1. Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolk and beat until combined. Gradually mix in the flour and chopped walnuts until the dough forms.
Press the dough evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a tart pan. Prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling.
2. Pre-Bake the Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the tart crust for about 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Filling: In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well combined and smooth.
4. Combine and Bake: Pour the lemon filling into the pre-baked tart shell. Bake the tart for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly firm to the touch. The edges should be lightly golden.
5. Cool and Serve: Allow the tart to cool to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. Dust with powdered sugar before slicing if desired.
Variations and Tips:
- Add Flavor: For an extra twist, incorporate herbs such as thyme or rosemary into the filling for a unique flavor profile.
- Nutty Option: If walnuts aren’t available, try pecans or almonds for a different, yet delicious taste.
- Gluten-Free Crust: Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour to make a gluten-free tart base.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
- Storage: The tart can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, but is best enjoyed fresh.
Enjoy this invigorating Lemon Walnut Tart as a delightful end to a summer meal!
Walnut and Mint Watermelon Salad
The Walnut and Mint Watermelon Salad is a revitalizing and vibrant dish that combines the juicy sweetness of watermelon with the earthy crunch of walnuts and the invigorating hint of mint.
This salad is perfect for hot summer days, serving as a light appetizer or a side dish for backyard barbecues and gatherings. It takes just 15 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal option for those looking for a quick yet impressive addition to their summer meals.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups watermelon, diced into cubes
- 1 cup walnuts, toasted and roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Steps:
- In a large bowl, combine the diced watermelon with the chopped walnuts and fresh mint leaves.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper to create a dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the watermelon salad and gently toss to combine, ensuring that all the ingredients are well coated.
- If desired, fold in the crumbled feta cheese for an added creaminess and flavor.
- Serve immediately as a revitalizing side dish or appetizer.
Variations and Tips:
- For a twist, try adding other fruits such as cucumber, avocado, or berries to the salad.
- Use different nuts such as pecans or almonds for a variation in flavor and texture.
- If you prefer a sweeter dressing, substitute the balsamic vinegar with honey or add a hint of lime juice for a tangy kick.
- This salad can be made ahead of time; just keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to prevent the watermelon from becoming too soggy.
