Are you ready to indulge in a world of rich, nutty flavors? Look no further than the humble black walnut. This versatile ingredient adds depth and complexity to a wide range of sweet and savory dishes. From classic baked goods like cookies and cakes, to savory pasta dishes and roasted meats, black walnuts are the perfect addition to elevate any recipe.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 decadent black walnut recipes that will satisfy your cravings for nutty delights. Whether you’re a fan of sweet treats or savory meals, there’s something on this list for everyone. So go ahead, get creative with black walnuts, and discover the rich flavors they have to offer.
Black Walnut Chocolate Chip Cookies
These cookies combine the earthy flavor of black walnuts with the sweetness of dark chocolate, creating a unique and delicious treat. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or as a gift for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup chopped black walnuts
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Stir in black walnuts and chocolate chips.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Black Walnut Banana Bread
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the rich flavor of black walnuts, creating a moist and aromatic bread perfect for breakfast or snacking.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped black walnuts
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add mashed bananas, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Fold in chopped black walnuts.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Black Walnut Pesto Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with the rich flavor of black walnuts and the simplicity of pesto sauce. This unique combination is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1/2 cup black walnut halves
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a food processor or blender, combine black walnuts, basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper. Process until smooth.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top. Process until pesto reaches desired consistency.
4. Toss cooked pasta with pesto sauce, ensuring a uniform coating.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Walnut and Maple Glazed Salmon
This recipe combines the rich flavor of black walnuts with the sweetness of maple syrup to create a deliciously glazed salmon dish. The perfect blend of savory and sweet, this recipe is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup black walnut halves
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together black walnuts, maple syrup, olive oil, and lemon juice.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the walnut-maple glaze evenly over each salmon fillet.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Black Walnut Apple Crisp
Enjoy the flavors of fall with this sweet and savory dessert that combines the richness of black walnuts with the tender crispness of apples.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup chopped black walnuts
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Toss until apples are evenly coated.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats, chopped black walnuts, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Add the melted butter to the oat mixture and stir until combined.
5. Pour the apple mixture into a 9×9-inch baking dish and top with the oat mixture.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until apples are tender and topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Black Walnut Brownies with Caramel Drizzle
Elevate your brownie game with the deep, nutty flavor of black walnuts and a sweet caramel drizzle. Perfect for special occasions or as a treat any time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 cups (250g) sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (60g) black walnut pieces
– 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
– Caramel drizzle (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and black walnuts; set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Gradually mix in the flour-walnut mixture, then vanilla extract. Pour into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Let cool completely before drizzling with caramel (see below).
Caramel Drizzle:
– 1 cup (200g) heavy cream
– 1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Combine ingredients in a small saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until smooth and caramel-like. Pour over cooled brownies.
Black Walnut Pancakes with Honey Syrup
Experience the warm, comforting flavors of black walnuts and pure honey in these indulgent pancakes. Perfect for a cozy weekend breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1/2 cup black walnut pieces
– Honey syrup (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the griddle or non-stick skillet to medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add black walnut pieces to the wet ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
6. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the preheated griddle or skillet.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
Honey Syrup:
– Combine 1 cup honey with 1/4 cup water in a saucepan over low heat.
– Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until thickened slightly, stirring occasionally.
Black Walnut and Blue Cheese Salad
Elevate your salad game with this rich and earthy combination of black walnuts, crumbly blue cheese, and fresh greens. Perfect as a light lunch or as a side dish for your favorite main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup toasted black walnuts
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (such as Roquefort or Gorgonzola)
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, toasted black walnuts, and crumbled blue cheese.
2. Sprinkle chopped red onion over the top.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Black Walnut Ice Cream
This recipe showcases the unique flavor of black walnuts, with a deep, dark richness that pairs perfectly with the creamy texture of ice cream. Perfect for those who love bold flavors, this dessert is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup black walnut puree (see note)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cream, milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the black walnut puree and vanilla extract. Let it cool to room temperature.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (chilling time not included)
Note: To make black walnut puree, blend 1/2 cup of black walnuts with 1 tablespoon of water until smooth. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any nut particles.
Black Walnut Stuffed Mushrooms
Experience the rich flavors of black walnuts and earthy mushrooms in this decadent appetizer. Perfect for any gathering, these bite-sized treats are sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/4 cup black walnut halves
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, sauté the mushroom caps in butter until softened.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with a mixture of black walnut halves, breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, and parsley.
4. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Walnut and Cranberry Granola
Start your day with a crunchy and flavorful breakfast by making this Black Walnut and Cranberry Granola. This sweet and savory granola is perfect for snacking on the go or topping your favorite yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped black walnuts
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, chopped
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, black walnuts, brown sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together honey and vegetable oil. Pour the mixture over the oat mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Fold in chopped cranberries.
5. Spread the granola mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly toasted, stirring every 10 minutes to prevent burning.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Black Walnut Carrot Cake
This decadent carrot cake recipe combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the deep, nutty flavor of black walnuts, creating a truly indulgent dessert. Perfect for special occasions or everyday treats.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups grated carrots
– 1 cup chopped black walnuts
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, eggs, carrots, black walnuts, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Black Walnut and Rosemary Roasted Chicken
Elevate your roasted chicken game with the earthy sweetness of black walnuts and the piney freshness of rosemary. This flavorful combination is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary
– 1/4 cup black walnut halves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, black walnuts, and garlic.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Black Walnut Pumpkin Bread
This moist and flavorful bread combines the comforting warmth of pumpkin with the rich, nutty flavor of black walnuts. Perfect for a cozy fall afternoon or as a gift to share with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup black walnut pieces
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– Ground cinnamon and nutmeg to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, black walnut pieces, milk, eggs, and melted butter. Stir until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Black Walnut and Dark Chocolate Bark
This decadent treat combines the deep flavor of black walnuts with the velvety smoothness of dark chocolate, perfect for a special occasion or indulgent snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup (60g) chopped black walnuts
– 1 tablespoon (15g) unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir in the chopped black walnuts, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly to about 1/4 inch (6mm) thickness.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to set.
6. Break into pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: None
Black Walnut Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Savor the rich flavors of black walnuts and sweetness of raisins in these soft-baked cookies. Perfect for a quick snack or dessert, these treats are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup chopped black walnuts
– 1/2 cup raisins
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in black walnuts and raisins.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Black Walnut and Pear Tart
This sweet and savory tart combines the richness of black walnuts with the tender sweetness of pears, perfect for a fall or winter dessert. The combination of textures and flavors is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 2 ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou), peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup black walnuts, chopped
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place on prepared baking sheet.
3. In a bowl, whisk together honey and lemon juice. Arrange pear slices in a spiral pattern on the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle chopped black walnuts over pears.
5. Fold edges of pastry up over filling to form a crust.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until pastry is golden brown and pears are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Black Walnut Hummus with Pita Chips
This creamy dip combines the earthy flavor of black walnuts with the traditional taste of hummus, served with crunchy pita chips. Perfect for a quick snack or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup black walnut pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup water
– Pita chips for serving
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, black walnuts, garlic, lemon juice, and salt.
2. Blend until smooth, adding olive oil and water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
3. Serve the hummus with pita chips.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (preparation) + 10-15 seconds (blending)
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich, nutty flavor of black walnuts! This collection of 18 decadent recipes showcases the versatility of this beloved ingredient. From sweet treats like Black Walnut Chocolate Chip Cookies and Black Walnut Brownies with Caramel Drizzle, to savory dishes like Black Walnut Pesto Pasta and Black Walnut and Maple Glazed Salmon, there’s something for everyone. Plus, discover unique desserts like Black Walnut Apple Crisp and Black Walnut Ice Cream, as well as creative breakfast and brunch options like Black Walnut Pancakes with Honey Syrup. Whether you’re a fan of sweet or savory, this list has you covered!
