Indulge your sweet tooth with these 18 decadent walnut dessert recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings! From classic pies and cakes to innovative bars and bites, walnuts add a rich, nutty flavor and satisfying crunch to each and every treat. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or bold and adventurous, there’s a walnut dessert here that’s sure to hit the spot.
Maple Walnut Pie with Whipped Cream is a timeless favorite, while Chocolate Walnut Fudge Brownies offer a rich, indulgent treat. Cinnamon Walnut Coffee Cake is perfect for a weekend brunch, and Walnut Baklava with Honey Syrup makes for a sweet and satisfying snack or dessert. And that’s just the beginning – stay tuned to explore all 18 of these irresistible walnut desserts!
Maple Walnut Pie with Whipped Cream
A classic dessert that combines the richness of maple syrup and walnuts with a flaky crust and creamy whipped topping.
Ingredients:
For the pie:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
For the whipped cream:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, butter, and ice-cold water. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough and place in a 9-inch pie dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix maple syrup, sugar, salt, and walnuts.
5. Pour the mixture into the pie crust.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the filling is set.
7. Let cool completely before serving.
8. For whipped cream, beat heavy whipping cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
9. Serve chilled pie with a dollop of whipped cream on top.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Chocolate Walnut Fudge Brownies
These fudgy brownies are packed with the deep flavors of dark chocolate, crunchy walnuts, and a hint of sweetness. Perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth, these treats are sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 sticks unsalted butter (12 tablespoons), 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 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
2. Melt butter and sugar in a medium saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove from heat; stir in eggs one at a time, followed by cocoa powder and vanilla extract.
4. Add flour and walnuts; mix until just combined.
5. Stir in chocolate chips.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
8. Let cool completely before cutting into squares.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cinnamon Walnut Coffee Cake
Start your day with a deliciously moist and flavorful coffee cake, packed with the warmth of cinnamon and crunch of walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in cinnamon and walnuts.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (if desired) before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Walnut Baklava with Honey Syrup
Walnut Baklava with Honey Syrup: A sweet and nutty dessert perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 cup of chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon of ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, melted
– Honey syrup (see below for recipe)
Honey Syrup:
– 1 cup of honey
– 1 cup of granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons of water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix together chopped walnuts, sugar, flour, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt.
4. Layer the phyllo dough with melted butter and walnut mixture, ending with a layer of phyllo on top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
6. While baklava is baking, prepare honey syrup by heating all ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
7. Remove baklava from oven and let it cool slightly before brushing with honey syrup.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Caramel Walnut Cheesecake Bars
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these indulgent bars that combine the creamy texture of cheesecake, the crunch of walnuts, and the deep flavor of caramel. Perfect for a special occasion or as a treat for yourself!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Mix crust ingredients and press into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Beat cream cheese, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust and bake for 25-30 minutes or until set.
5. Drizzle caramel sauce over the top and sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar.
6. Allow to cool completely before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Walnut and Date Energy Balls
These bite-sized treats are packed with wholesome ingredients, including walnuts, dates, oats, and honey. Perfect for a quick snack or post-workout energy boost, they’re also gluten-free and vegan-friendly.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup pitted dates, soaked in water and blended until smooth
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine oats, walnuts, and chia seeds.
2. Add the blended dates and honey to the dry mixture. Mix until well combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should end up with around 12-15 energy balls.
4. Place the energy balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
5. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None required! These energy balls are ready to go straight from the fridge.
Banana Walnut Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting
This classic bread recipe combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the crunch of walnuts, topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Ingredients:
For the bread:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
For the frosting:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and walnuts. Stir until combined.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow bread to cool completely on a wire rack. For the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add vanilla extract and powdered sugar; beat until creamy. Spread over cooled bread.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Walnut-Stuffed Baked Apples
These sweet and savory treats are perfect for a cozy fall evening. The combination of tender apples, crunchy walnuts, and aromatic spices will become your new go-to dessert.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 baking apples (Granny Smith or other varieties)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Core the apples, leaving the top intact.
3. In a bowl, mix together chopped walnuts, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Stuff each apple with the walnut mixture, filling the core completely.
5. Place the stuffed apples in a baking dish and drizzle with melted butter.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the apples are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Walnut Praline Ice Cream
Sweeten your summer with this creamy and crunchy Walnut Praline Ice Cream. This unique flavor combines the richness of walnuts with a caramel-like praline swirl, making it a standout dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup praline sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together cream, milk, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until sugars are dissolved.
2. Stir in vanilla extract and chopped walnuts.
3. Cover mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Pour chilled mixture into the machine and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. During the last 2 minutes of churning, add praline sauce and continue to churn until fully incorporated.
7. Transfer finished ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including churning time)
Walnut and Dark Chocolate Tart
A rich and decadent dessert that combines the earthy flavor of walnuts with the deepness of dark chocolate, all wrapped up in a buttery pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup walnut halves
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 large egg, beaten
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, mix together sugar, melted butter, and walnuts.
3. Spread the walnut mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Melt the dark chocolate chips in the microwave or in a double boiler.
5. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the walnut mixture.
6. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling to create a crust.
7. Brush the egg wash over the pastry and sprinkle with salt.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Walnut Butter Cookies with Sea Salt
These chewy cookies combine the richness of walnut butter with the crunch of sea salt, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create these delicious cookies in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup walnut butter
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup flaky sea salt (such as Maldon or Fleur de Sel)
– Optional: chopped walnuts for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
5. Stir in walnut butter until smooth.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Sprinkle with sea salt before baking.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
9. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Pumpkin Walnut Spice Muffins
Warm up with these deliciously moist and flavorful muffins, perfect for a cozy fall morning.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, egg, milk, and melted butter. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
8. Allow muffins to cool in tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Yield: 12 muffins
Walnut and Fig Galette
This sweet and savory galette combines the rich flavors of walnuts and figs in a flaky pastry crust, perfect for a seasonal dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh figs
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– 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.
3. Arrange figs and walnuts in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Drizzle honey and balsamic vinegar over the fruit and nuts.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush the crust with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water) for a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Walnut Cranberry Oatmeal Cookies
These soft-baked cookies combine the warmth of oatmeal with the sweetness of cranberries and the earthiness of walnuts, making them a perfect treat for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– Salt to taste
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, brown sugar, and granulated sugar.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts and dried cranberries.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Walnut and Pear Clafoutis
This sweet and nutty clafoutis is a perfect combination of fresh pears and toasted walnuts, baked to perfection in a crispy, golden-brown crust. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a delightful dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe Bartlett pears, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add chopped walnuts and mix until combined.
4. Arrange pear slices in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Pour milk, eggs, and melted butter over the pears.
6. Sprinkle the walnut mixture evenly over the pears.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and set.
8. Serve warm with your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Walnut Honey Baklava Rolls
A sweet twist on traditional baklava, these rolls combine the classic flavors of walnuts and honey with a convenient roll-up shape.
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
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.
3. Mix walnuts, honey, orange zest, cinnamon, and cardamom in a small bowl.
4. Spread the walnut mixture evenly over the center third of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border on either side.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling to form a roll. Brush with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water).
6. Place the rolls on the prepared baking sheet, seam-side down.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Walnut Caramel Blondies
These chewy blondies get a boost of flavor and texture from the addition of walnuts and caramel sauce. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, these bars are easy to make and perfect for snacking or serving at a party.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt to taste
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 salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture, then stir in walnuts and caramel sauce.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Walnut and Orange Polenta Cake
Walnut and Orange Polenta Cake: A delicious Italian-inspired dessert that combines the nutty flavor of walnuts with the brightness of orange zest, all wrapped up in a moist and crumbly polenta cake.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup polenta
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tbsp orange zest
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together polenta, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add orange juice, walnuts, and zest to the wet ingredients; mix until combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the richness of walnuts with these 18 decadent dessert recipes that are irresistibly sweet. From classic treats like maple walnut pie and chocolate walnut fudge brownies to creative combinations like caramel walnut cheesecake bars and walnut butter cookies, there’s something for every taste bud. These indulgent desserts feature walnuts as the star ingredient, paired with a variety of flavors such as honey, cinnamon, and dark chocolate. Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with these mouthwatering recipes that are sure to impress.
