Black Walnut Chocolate Drop Cookies

Black Walnut Chocolate Drop Cookies Recipe | USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 12 minutes | Servings: 24 cookies

Introduction

Black Walnut Chocolate Drop Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich, earthy flavors of black walnuts with the deep, indulgent taste of chocolate. This recipe offers a unique twist on the classic chocolate cookie, incorporating the distinctive taste of black walnuts to create a cookie that is both flavorful and satisfying. Perfect for special occasions, holidays, or a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to impress anyone who tries them.

History

The use of black walnuts in cooking and baking has a long history in American cuisine, particularly in the Appalachian and Midwestern regions where the black walnut tree is native. This recipe for Black Walnut Chocolate Drop Cookies is a modern take on traditional walnut recipes, showcasing the nut's robust flavor in a sweet, chocolatey context. The combination of black walnuts and chocolate is a relatively recent innovation, reflecting contemporary tastes and the ongoing evolution of American baking traditions.

Ingredients

1.75 cup sifted flour
0.5 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
0.25 tsp salt
1 cup chopped black walnuts
0.5 cup butter
1.25 cup packed sifted brown sugar
1 egg
2 oz (57 g) melted and cooled unsweetened chocolate
1 tsp vanilla extract
0.5 cup milk

Chocolate frosting

1.5 oz (43 g) melted unsweetened chocolate
1 egg yolk
3 tbsp light cream
1.25 cup sifted confectioners' sugar

How to prepare

Mix and sift flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Then, add nuts and mix well.
Cream the butter and gradually add sugar. Cream until fluffy.
Add the well-beaten egg and chocolate to the mixture.
Add the extract to the milk.
Add the dry ingredients alternately with the milk to the creamed mixture. Mix just enough after each addition to combine the ingredients.
Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto ungreased baking sheets.
Bake in a preheated oven for 12 minutes.
Once cooled, spread with chocolate frosting.
Combine the chocolate, slightly beaten egg yolk, and cream. Then, add sugar and mix well.

Variations

For a nuttier flavor, toast the black walnuts before adding them to the batter.
Substitute semi-sweet chocolate for unsweetened chocolate for a sweeter cookie.
Add a half teaspoon of cinnamon to the batter for a spiced version.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Black Walnut Chocolate Drop Cookies turn out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Use fresh, high-quality black walnuts for the best flavor.

- Sift the flour before measuring to avoid dense cookies.

- When melting chocolate, use a double boiler or microwave in short bursts to prevent burning.

- Allow the melted chocolate to cool slightly before adding it to the batter to prevent cooking the eggs.

- Do not overmix the batter after adding flour to keep the cookies tender.

- Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized cookies.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are perfect on their own or paired with a glass of cold milk or a cup of coffee. They also make a wonderful addition to holiday cookie platters or as a homemade gift.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe involves basic baking techniques such as creaming butter and sugar, sifting dry ingredients, and melting chocolate. Mastery of these techniques will ensure your cookies are soft, tender, and delicious.

Ingredient Substitutions

If black walnuts are unavailable, regular walnuts or pecans can be used as a substitute.

- For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk and butter alternatives.

Make Ahead Tips

The cookie dough can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days before baking. Additionally, the baked cookies freeze well for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve these cookies on a decorative plate or platter, dusted with a little confectioners' sugar for an elegant touch. They can also be packaged in cellophane bags tied with a ribbon for a charming gift.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair these cookies with a robust coffee, such as an espresso or French roast, to complement the rich flavors of the chocolate and black walnuts. For a dessert pairing, a glass of port or a dessert wine works beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you've frosted the cookies, storing them in the refrigerator can help keep the frosting firm. These cookies do not require reheating, but if desired, a quick warm-up in the microwave can enhance their flavor and texture.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of these cookies contains approximately 150 calories, making them a relatively indulgent treat best enjoyed in moderation.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Black Walnut Chocolate Drop Cookies contains approximately 22 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this recipe are the brown sugar and flour, providing energy for the body.

Fats

These cookies contain about 8 grams of fat per serving, with the main sources being butter and black walnuts. Black walnuts are rich in healthy, unsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.

Proteins

Each cookie offers around 2 grams of protein, coming from the egg, milk, and nuts. While not a high-protein food, these cookies contribute to your daily protein intake.

Vitamins and minerals

Black Walnut Chocolate Drop Cookies provide a range of vitamins and minerals, including calcium from the milk, iron from the chocolate, and antioxidants from the black walnuts.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens such as nuts (black walnuts), dairy (butter, milk, cream), eggs, and gluten (flour). Those with allergies or sensitivities should take caution.

Summary

Overall, Black Walnut Chocolate Drop Cookies are a delicious treat that offers some nutritional benefits, particularly from the black walnuts. However, they are best enjoyed as an occasional indulgence within a balanced diet.

Summary

Black Walnut Chocolate Drop Cookies are a delightful blend of rich flavors and textures, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. With their unique combination of ingredients and the heartiness of black walnuts, these cookies offer a delicious twist on traditional chocolate cookies. Whether you're an experienced baker or new to the kitchen, this recipe is sure to yield delicious results that everyone will love.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Black Walnut Chocolate Drop Cookies. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret. Margaret was known for her delicious baked treats, and she always had a new recipe to share with me. On this particular day, she greeted me with a plate of the most delectable cookies I had ever tasted.

As I bit into the chewy, chocolatey goodness of the cookie, I couldn't help but ask Margaret for the recipe. She smiled and told me that it was a family secret passed down from her grandmother. She then proceeded to show me how to make the cookies, step by step. I watched intently as she mixed the ingredients together, adding in the black walnuts at just the right moment.

The smell of the cookies baking in the oven filled Margaret's cozy kitchen, and I knew that I had stumbled upon something truly special. When the cookies were finally ready, we sat down at the kitchen table and enjoyed them with a cup of tea. Margaret told me stories of her grandmother and how she used to make these cookies for her as a child. I could see the love and nostalgia in her eyes as she spoke, and I knew that I had to learn how to make these cookies for myself.

After that day, I made it my mission to perfect the recipe for Black Walnut Chocolate Drop Cookies. I spent hours in my own kitchen, experimenting with different measurements and techniques until I finally found the perfect balance of flavors. The key, I discovered, was to toast the black walnuts before adding them to the dough. This brought out their nutty flavor and added a delicious crunch to the cookies.

I shared my newfound recipe with my family and friends, and they all raved about how delicious the cookies were. I knew that I had struck gold with this recipe, and I continued to make them for every special occasion. Whether it was a birthday, holiday, or just a regular Sunday afternoon, my Black Walnut Chocolate Drop Cookies were always a hit.

Over the years, I have made these cookies for countless gatherings and events. I have shared the recipe with anyone who asked, passing on the tradition of this beloved treat to the next generation. I even entered them in a local baking competition and won first place. The judges couldn't get enough of the rich chocolate flavor and the perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that led me to this recipe, I am filled with gratitude for my dear friend Margaret and her grandmother's secret. I am grateful for the countless hours spent in my kitchen, perfecting the recipe and making it my own. And I am grateful for the joy and memories that these cookies have brought to me and my loved ones over the years.

So if you ever find yourself craving a sweet and nutty treat, look no further than my Black Walnut Chocolate Drop Cookies. Just follow the recipe with love and care, and you too can experience the magic that comes with each bite. Happy baking!