When it comes to cooking with nuts, few can rival the rich, earthy flavor of black walnuts. These native American trees produce a type of walnut that’s prized for its deep, chocolatey taste and firm, crunchy texture. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice cook, black walnuts are an ingredient worth exploring. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 18 decadent black walnut recipes that are sure to impress your friends and family.
From sweet treats like black walnut banana bread and caramel brownies to savory dishes like pesto pasta and glazed salmon, these recipes showcase the versatility of black walnuts. And with their impressive nutritional profile (black walnuts are a good source of omega-3s and antioxidants), you can feel good about indulging in these delicious creations.
Black Walnut Banana Bread
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the rich, earthy flavor of black walnuts, creating a unique and delicious banana bread. Perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or as a gift for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup chopped black walnuts
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped black walnuts.
6. 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 Chocolate Chip Cookies
These cookies combine the nutty flavor of black walnuts with the richness of dark chocolate chips, creating a unique and indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup black walnuts, chopped
– 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. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Stir in the flour mixture, then fold in chopped black walnuts and chocolate chips.
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 Pesto Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with the rich flavor of black walnuts and the creaminess of homemade pesto. This unique recipe combines the two for a truly unforgettable dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, fettuccine)
– 1/2 cup black walnut halves
– 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Romano cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a food processor, combine black walnuts, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, and basil. Process until smooth.
3. Toss cooked pasta with the black walnut pesto sauce.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with additional grated Romano cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Walnut and Maple Glazed Salmon
Elevate your dining experience with the rich flavors of black walnut and pure maple syrup, perfectly balanced on a crispy salmon fillet.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp black walnut oil or dark sesame oil
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup, black walnut oil or dark sesame oil, honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
4. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the glaze evenly over the salmon, making sure to coat all surfaces.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Black Walnut Caramel Brownies
Elevate your brownie game with the deep, nutty flavor of black walnuts and the sweetness of caramel. These indulgent treats are perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, plus more for greasing
– 2 cups sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup chopped black walnuts
– 1 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan and line with parchment paper.
2. Melt butter and sugar in a medium saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in eggs one at a time, followed by cocoa powder and vanilla extract.
4. Add flour and walnuts; mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Drizzle caramel sauce over the brownie batter.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Black Walnut Apple Crisp
Celebrate the flavors of fall with this scrumptious black walnut apple crisp, combining the natural sweetness of apples and the rich, nutty flavor of black walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup black walnuts, chopped
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together apples, black walnuts, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, combine rolled oats and butter until crumbly.
5. Top the apple mixture with the oat mixture.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Black Walnut Pancakes with Honey Drizzle
Start your day off right with these indulgent pancakes infused with the deep, earthy flavor of black walnuts. The sweet and sticky honey drizzle adds a delightful contrast to this breakfast treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup black walnut oil or substitute with pecan or walnut oil
– 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh black walnuts
– Honey drizzle (see below)
– Butter or cooking spray for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine milk, egg, and black walnut oil.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped black walnuts.
6. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the preheated pan.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
8. Flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Honey Drizzle:
– Mix equal parts honey and heavy cream in a bowl.
– Warm by placing the bowl over a pot of simmering water for 5-7 minutes or until desired consistency is reached.
Cooking time: approximately 10-12 minutes
Black Walnut and Blue Cheese Salad
This refreshing salad combines the earthy flavors of black walnuts with the pungency of blue cheese, creating a unique and satisfying side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh black walnuts
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (Gorgonzola or Roquefort work well)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens.
2. Sprinkle the chopped black walnuts over the greens.
3. Crumble the blue cheese into small pieces and scatter them over the salad.
4. Drizzle the olive oil and apple cider vinegar over the salad, tossing gently to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Black Walnut Butter Spread
Experience the deep flavor of black walnuts in this homemade butter spread, perfect for toast, crackers, or using as a dip. This recipe yields a smooth and creamy spread with a hint of bitterness from the black walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup raw black walnuts
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread the black walnuts on a baking sheet and toast for 10-12 minutes or until fragrant.
3. In a food processor, combine toasted black walnuts, softened butter, honey, and salt. Process until smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or nuttiness to your liking.
5. Transfer the spread to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Black Walnut Pumpkin Pie
This recipe combines the warm spices of pumpkin pie with the rich flavor of black walnuts, creating a unique and delicious dessert perfect for the fall season.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon black walnut liqueur (or substitute with 1-2 tablespoons chopped walnuts)
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, heavy cream, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until smooth.
3. Beat in eggs until well combined.
4. Stir in black walnut liqueur (or chopped walnuts).
5. Roll out pie crust and fill with the pumpkin mixture.
6. Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F, then reduce heat to 350°F and bake for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until filling is set.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Black Walnut Granola Bars
These chewy bars combine the earthy flavor of black walnuts with a crunchy granola texture, perfect for a healthy snack or energy boost on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped black walnuts
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, black walnuts, and brown sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, combine honey, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until well combined.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well coated.
5. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Black Walnut Ice Cream
This recipe combines the deep, earthy flavor of black walnuts with the simplicity of homemade ice cream. The result is a rich and creamy dessert that’s perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh black walnuts
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped black walnuts and vanilla extract. Let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container. Cover and refrigerate until chilled, 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: 30 minutes + chilling time
Black Walnut Stuffed Mushrooms
These savory bites are perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. The rich flavor of black walnuts pairs beautifully with the earthy taste of mushrooms, creating a truly indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/2 cup black walnut halves
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, sauté mushroom caps in butter until tender.
3. In a bowl, mix together black walnuts, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and garlic.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the walnut mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Walnut and Cranberry Stuffing
A savory and sweet twist on traditional stuffing, this recipe combines the rich flavors of black walnuts with the tanginess of cranberries.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups cubed white bread (day-old)
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh black walnuts
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
3. Add the melted butter, black walnuts, cranberries, and poultry seasoning to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread cubes and the skillet mixture. Toss until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Black Walnut Coffee Cake
Start your day with a delicious and aromatic coffee cake infused with the rich flavor of black walnuts. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of cinnamon and sugar with the earthy taste of black walnuts, creating a perfect breakfast or brunch treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped black walnuts
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped black walnuts.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (if desired). Serve warm.
Black Walnut and Dark Chocolate Bark
Combine the earthy flavor of black walnuts with the richness of dark chocolate for a sophisticated treat that’s perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-make bark is a great way to enjoy the unique flavors of black walnuts in a sweet and indulgent package.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup chopped black walnuts
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the 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, honey, and salt until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread into an even layer.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
6. Break into pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (including refrigeration time)
Black Walnut Oatmeal Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the richness of black walnuts with the warmth of spices, perfect for a cozy treat any time of year. With a hint of molasses and a satisfying crunch from rolled oats, these cookies are sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup black walnuts, chopped
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon molasses
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, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and molasses.
4. Stir in the dry ingredients and chopped black walnuts until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Black Walnut and Pear Tart
This sweet and savory tart combines the rich flavors of black walnuts with the tender sweetness of pears, perfect for a cozy fall evening or a holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup black walnut halves
– 2 ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou), peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
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. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a small bowl, mix together sugar, honey, and salt. Sprinkle mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Arrange pear slices on top of sugar mixture, overlapping slightly.
5. Scatter black walnut halves over pears.
6. Fold edges of pastry up to form a crust, pressing gently to seal.
7. Brush melted butter over crust and edges.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the rich flavor of black walnuts with these 18 decadent recipes for every occasion. From sweet treats like Black Walnut Banana Bread and Black Walnut Caramel Brownies to savory dishes like Black Walnut Pesto Pasta and Black Walnut Glazed Salmon, there’s something for everyone. Plus, unique desserts like Black Walnut Pumpkin Pie and Black Walnut Ice Cream will impress your friends and family. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking to add some excitement to your meals, these black walnut recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.