Walnut Shortbread Recipe

Delight your senses and satisfy your sweet tooth with this mouthwatering Walnut Shortbread Delight recipe. This recipe is an absolute gem with its buttery, sweet shortbread base and rich, nutty walnut topping. The combination of flavors and textures make this recipe truly delightful. Elegant and decadent, these shortbread treats are perfect for any occasion, whether it's a holiday party, afternoon tea, or just a cozy night at home.

Photos of Walnut Shortbread Recipe

This recipe calls for a few ingredients that might not be staples in every kitchen. Walnuts, both chopped and ground, play a crucial role in this recipe, providing a unique texture and rich, nutty taste. You might also need to pick up some brandy, which lends a deep, warming flavor to the shortbread. All these ingredients are commonly available in the baking aisle of most supermarkets.

Ingredients for Walnut Shortbread Delight

Butter: This is used to give the shortbread its rich, buttery taste and crumbly texture.

Confectioner's sugar: This type of sugar is very fine and will make the dough smooth and easy to work with.

Egg: This acts as a binder in the recipe.

Water: This will hydrate the dough.

Brandy: This will give the shortbread a unique and rich flavor.

Salt: This will enhance the other flavors in the recipe.

All purpose flour: This is the base for the shortbread dough.

Baking powder: This will help the shortbread to rise a little and give it a light texture.

Walnuts: These will add a crunch and deep, nutty flavor to the shortbread.

Brown sugar: This type of sugar has a molasses-like flavor that pairs well with the walnuts.

Ground walnuts: These are walnuts that have been ground into a fine powder. They will be used to create a coating on the outside of the shortbread.

One reader, Jenda Mason says:

This walnut shortbread delight recipe is a game-changer! The buttery, nutty flavor combined with the perfect crunch makes it an absolute delight. It's easy to make and impresses everyone. I highly recommend trying it out for a delightful treat that will leave you wanting more!

Jenda Mason

Techniques Required for Making Walnut Shortbread Delight

How to prepare the dough: Combine the butter and confectioner's sugar in a food processor, then add the egg, water, brandy, salt, half of the flour, and baking powder. Process until smooth, then gradually add the remaining flour and finely chopped walnuts until the dough forms a ball.

How to chill the dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

How to shape the dough: Roll out the dough on a floured work surface to form a 1½-inch diameter log, then wrap it in plastic wrap and chill for 15 minutes.

How to coat the dough: Brush the log with beaten egg, then press a mixture of brown sugar and ground walnuts onto all sides of the log to cover evenly.

How to slice the dough: Use a sharp chef's knife to slice the log into ¼-inch thick cookies.

How to bake the cookies: Place the cookies on a lined cookie sheet, brush the tops with beaten egg, and sprinkle with the remaining brown sugar-walnut mixture. Bake at 375 degrees F for 15 minutes.

How to serve: Transfer the cookies to a wire rack and let them cool before serving.

How To Make Walnut Shortbread

Whip up a batch of crispy, fragrant sweet treats with this easy shortbread recipe! It’s made slightly boozy with a touch of brandy for the flakiest snack.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Rest and Chill Time: 45 minutes

Total: 1 hour 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

¾cupbutter
½cupconfectioner’s sugar
1egg
1½tbspwater
2tbspbrandy
1tspsalt
1½cupsall purpose flour,unbleached
1tspbaking powder
½cupwalnuts,finely chopped
½cupbrown sugar
½cupground walnuts

Instructions

Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.
Combine the butter and confectioner’s sugar in the bowl of a food processor, then process with the metal blade for 2 minutes until smooth.
Add the egg, water, brandy, salt, half of the flour, and baking powder and process for an additional 2 minutes.
Gradually add the remaining flour and finely chopped walnuts and process for another 1 minute or 2 until the dough forms a neat ball in the work bowl.
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
Roll out the dough on a floured work surface to form a 1½-inch diameter log. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for 15 minutes.
Brush the log with the beaten egg. Mix together the brown sugar and ground walnuts and press the mixture on all sides of the log to cover evenly.
Using a sharp chef’s knife, slice the log into ¼-inch thick cookies. Place ½-inch apart on the cookie sheet. Brush the tops with the remaining beaten egg and sprinkle with the remaining brown sugar-walnut mixture.
Bake for 15 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack and let cool.
Serve and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Store in an airtight jar. The cookies will stay fresh at room temperature for at least 1 week.

Nutrition

Calories: 93.84kcal
Fat: 5.71g
Saturated Fat: 3.06g
Trans Fat: 0.19g
Monounsaturated Fat: 1.38g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.89g
Carbohydrates: 9.38g
Fiber: 0.26g
Sugar: 4.36g
Protein: 1.09g
Cholesterol: 17.53mg
Sodium: 48.84mg
Calcium: 17.83mg
Potassium: 19.49mg
Iron: 0.39mg
Vitamin A: 41.12µg
Vitamin C: 0.02mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Walnut Shortbread

When incorporating the walnuts into the dough, ensure they are finely chopped to ensure an even distribution throughout the shortbread. This will not only enhance the flavor but also provide a delightful crunch in every bite. Also, when rolling the dough into a log, try to make it as even as possible. This will help in achieving uniform thickness when slicing the cookies, leading to even baking.

Time-Saving Tips for This Shortbread Recipe

Preparation: Gather all the ingredients and equipment before starting to make the recipe to ensure a smooth and efficient cooking process.

Chill the dough: Place the dough in the freezer for 15-20 minutes to firm it up, making it easier to slice and handle.

Organize your workspace: Clear and organize your workspace before starting to minimize time spent searching for tools and ingredients.

Use a food processor: Utilize a food processor to quickly and efficiently mix the dough, saving time and effort compared to manual mixing.

Slice and bake: Instead of shaping individual cookies, roll the dough into a log and slice it, saving time and ensuring uniform cookies.

Multi-task: While the dough is chilling, preheat the oven and prepare the baking sheet to maximize efficiency.

Store in advance: Make the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, allowing you to bake the cookies at your convenience.

Substitute Ingredients For Walnut Shortbread Recipe

butter - Substitute with vegan butter: Vegan butter can be used as a dairy-free alternative, providing a similar creamy texture and rich flavor to the shortbread.
confectioner’s sugar - Substitute with powdered erythritol: Powdered erythritol is a low-calorie sweetener that can be used as a sugar substitute, suitable for those following a low-carb or keto diet.
egg - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can be used as a vegan-friendly and cholesterol-free alternative to eggs, providing moisture and binding properties to the shortbread.
brandy - Substitute with vanilla extract: Vanilla extract can add a similar depth of flavor as brandy, without the alcohol content, making it a suitable non-alcoholic alternative.
all purpose flour - Substitute with almond flour: Almond flour can be used as a gluten-free alternative, adding a nutty flavor and a moist texture to the shortbread.
walnuts - Substitute with pecans: Pecans can be used as a substitute for walnuts, providing a similar rich and buttery flavor with a slightly sweeter taste.
brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a natural alternative to brown sugar, offering a caramel-like flavor and a lower glycemic index.

Presenting Walnut Shortbread Delight in Style

Elevate the plating: When presenting the walnut shortbread delight, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use clean lines and minimalistic plating to showcase the beauty of the shortbread.
Incorporate a touch of sophistication: Add a touch of sophistication to the presentation by using edible flowers or gold leaf as a delicate garnish. This will elevate the overall aesthetic and create a luxurious feel.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the walnut shortbread delight to stand out. This will create a sense of balance and draw attention to the exquisite flavors and textures of the dessert.
Balance flavors and textures: Arrange the walnut shortbread delight in a way that balances the flavors and textures. Consider pairing it with a small quenelle of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to complement the richness of the shortbread.
Incorporate a modern twist: Consider incorporating a modern twist by serving the walnut shortbread delight on a sleek, contemporary plate. This will add a touch of innovation to the presentation while maintaining a sense of timeless elegance.
Highlight the craftsmanship: Showcase the craftsmanship of the dessert by placing the walnut shortbread delight on a handcrafted serving platter. This will emphasize the attention to detail and elevate the overall dining experience.
Emphasize precision: Pay close attention to precision when plating the walnut shortbread delight. Each element should be meticulously placed to create a visually stunning presentation that reflects culinary expertise.
Create a focal point: Design the presentation to have a focal point, such as a single walnut shortbread delight placed at the center of the plate, surrounded by subtle accents that enhance its appeal.
Consider the plate shape and color: Select a plate that complements the colors of the walnut shortbread delight. The shape and color of the plate should enhance the overall presentation without overpowering the dessert.
Add a final touch of elegance: Complete the presentation with a dusting of edible gold dust or a light drizzle of caramel sauce to add a final touch of elegance and elevate the walnut shortbread delight to a Michelin-star level dessert.

Essential Tools for Making Shortbread Cookies

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for mixing, blending, and pureeing ingredients. It's great for making dough, chopping nuts, and combining ingredients for various recipes.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is an essential kitchen tool for combining ingredients. It comes in various sizes and materials, and is used for mixing, whisking, and tossing ingredients together.
Cookie sheet: A cookie sheet, also known as a baking sheet, is a flat, metal pan used for baking cookies, pastries, and other baked goods in the oven.
Parchment paper: Parchment paper is a non-stick paper that is used to line baking sheets and pans, preventing food from sticking and making cleanup easier.
Plastic wrap: Plastic wrap is a thin, transparent film used to cover and wrap food items to keep them fresh and prevent air exposure.
Sharp chef's knife: A sharp chef's knife is a versatile kitchen tool used for slicing, dicing, and chopping ingredients with precision and ease.
Wire rack: A wire rack is used for cooling baked goods and allows air to circulate around the food, preventing sogginess.

Storing and Freezing Walnut Shortbread Delight

Allow the walnut shortbread cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before storing them. This will ensure that they maintain their crisp texture and prevent them from becoming soggy.
Once cooled, place the cookies in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. To keep them extra crisp, you can also place a piece of parchment paper between each layer of cookies.
Store the container or bag of cookies in a cool, dry place, such as your pantry or cupboard. They should stay fresh for up to 1 week at room temperature.
If you want to keep the cookies for a longer period, you can freeze them:
- Place the cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, separating layers with parchment paper or wax paper to prevent them from sticking together.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents, so you can easily keep track of when they were frozen.
- Freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply remove the desired number of cookies from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving.
To maintain the best quality and flavor of your walnut shortbread cookies, avoid storing them in the refrigerator, as this can cause them to absorb moisture and become soft or stale.

How To Reheat Leftover Walnut Shortbread Delight

To reheat leftover walnut shortbread delight, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until they are warmed through and slightly crisp on the edges. This method will help restore the texture and bring out the nutty flavor of the walnuts.
Another option is to use a toaster oven. Set the temperature to 325°F (165°C) and place the shortbread on the toaster oven rack. Heat for 3-5 minutes, keeping a close eye to ensure they don't burn. This method is quick and convenient, especially if you're only reheating a few cookies.
For a softer, chewier texture, you can use the microwave. Place the walnut shortbread on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 10-15 seconds at 50% power. Check the cookies and repeat the process if needed, but be careful not to overheat them, as this can cause the butter to melt and make the cookies greasy.
If you want to enjoy your leftover walnut shortbread delight with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, try warming the cookies in a skillet. Melt a small amount of butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the cookies and heat for 1-2 minutes on each side until they are warm and slightly crispy. Serve immediately with a scoop of ice cream for a decadent treat.

Interesting Fact About Walnut Shortbread Delight

The walnut shortbread delight recipe is a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of buttery shortbread with the nutty crunch of walnuts. It's a perfect accompaniment to a cup of tea or coffee. The addition of brandy adds a subtle depth of flavor to the cookies, making them a unique and indulgent treat. Walnuts are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins, making this dessert not only delicious but also nutritious. So, indulge in these walnut shortbread delights and savor the rich, buttery goodness with a hint of nuttiness.

Is Making Walnut Shortbread at Home Cost-Effective?

This walnut shortbread delight recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of basic ingredients like butter, sugar, and flour keeps the cost reasonable. However, the inclusion of brandy and walnuts may slightly elevate the overall cost. Considering the yield and the delightful taste, this recipe is worth a try. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate it an 8 for its flavor and simplicity. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $12-$15, making it a budget-friendly treat.

Is This Shortbread Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This walnut shortbread delight recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are:

High butter content, which is a significant source of saturated fat
Refined sugar in the form of confectioner's sugar and brown sugar
All-purpose flour, which is a refined carbohydrate
Relatively low in nutrients, as it lacks fruits, vegetables, or whole grains

However, the recipe does include some beneficial ingredients:

Walnuts, which are a good source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber
Eggs, which provide protein and various vitamins and minerals

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Reduce the amount of butter and replace some of it with a healthier fat, such as olive oil or coconut oil
Use whole wheat flour or a gluten-free alternative, such as almond flour, to increase the fiber content and nutritional value
Decrease the amount of sugar used or substitute with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
Incorporate additional nutrient-dense ingredients, such as dried fruits (e.g., cranberries or raisins) or seeds (e.g., chia or flax seeds)
Experiment with using less sugar in the walnut coating or omitting it altogether, relying on the natural sweetness of the walnuts

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious treat that still satisfies your sweet tooth. Remember, moderation is key, and even with healthier ingredients, shortbread should be enjoyed as an occasional indulgence rather than an everyday snack.

Editor's Opinion on Walnut Shortbread Delight Recipe

This walnut shortbread delight recipe is a delightful combination of rich buttery shortbread and the earthy crunch of walnuts. The addition of brandy adds a subtle depth of flavor, making these cookies perfect for a special occasion or a cozy evening treat. The method of rolling the dough into a log and coating it with a sweet walnut mixture adds a beautiful visual and textural element. The result is a deliciously indulgent cookie with a perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness. These cookies are sure to impress and are a wonderful addition to any dessert spread.

Enhance Your Walnut Shortbread Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Vegetables: Try serving the walnut shortbread delight with a side of roasted vegetables, such as carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts. The caramelized flavors of the vegetables will complement the buttery sweetness of the shortbread.

Grilled Chicken Breast: For a heartier option, pair the walnut shortbread delight with a juicy grilled chicken breast. The savory and smoky flavors of the chicken will contrast beautifully with the nutty and sweet shortbread.

Fruit Salad: Balance out the richness of the walnut shortbread delight with a refreshing fruit salad. The combination of fresh fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi will provide a burst of natural sweetness and acidity to cleanse the palate.

Butternut Squash Soup: Warm up your meal by serving the walnut shortbread delight with a velvety butternut squash soup. The creamy and slightly sweet soup will add a comforting element to the dessert, creating a cozy and satisfying dining experience.

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Appetizers and Main Courses That Go Well with Walnut Shortbread Delight

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these delectable stuffed mushrooms. Filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, these bite-sized appetizers are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with these flavorful bruschetta bites. Topped with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze, these crispy bread rounds are a perfect way to start any meal.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Indulge in a creamy and savory pasta dish that combines tender chicken with rich alfredo sauce. The flavors meld together perfectly for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Beef Stir Fry: Experience the bold and vibrant flavors of a beef stir fry, packed with colorful vegetables and tender strips of beef. The combination of savory and sweet sauces brings a delightful balance to every bite.

Why trust this Walnut Shortbread Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of butter, confectioner's sugar, and brandy, creating a rich and flavorful shortbread. The addition of walnuts provides a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, while the careful process of chilling the dough ensures the perfect texture. The use of brown sugar and ground walnuts for the coating adds a sweet and nutty finish. With a meticulous process and a blend of quality ingredients, this recipe promises a delectable shortbread that's sure to impress.

Share your thoughts and experiences with the Walnut Shortbread Recipe in the Baking and Desserts forum section. Let's discuss any variations or tips you may have for perfecting this delightful treat!

FAQ:

Can I substitute the brandy with another ingredient?

Yes, you can substitute the brandy with vanilla extract or almond extract for a non-alcoholic version of the recipe.

Can I use a different type of nut instead of walnuts?

Absolutely! You can use pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts as a substitute for walnuts to add a different flavor to the shortbread delight.

Can I make the dough ahead of time and bake it later?

Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.

Can I freeze the baked shortbread cookies?

Yes, you can freeze the baked shortbread cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Just make sure to let them cool completely before freezing.

Can I omit the egg from the recipe?

You can omit the egg from the recipe, but it may affect the texture of the shortbread. You can try using a commercial egg replacer or a mixture of water, oil, and baking powder as an alternative.