18 Delicious Black Walnut Recipes for Every Occasion

You’re in for a treat! Black walnuts bring a rich, earthy flavor to any dish, making them a must-have in your culinary arsenal. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner, celebrating with seasonal favorites, or indulging in some comfort food, we’ve got you covered. Dive into our roundup of 18 delicious black walnut recipes that promise to delight your taste buds for every occasion. Let’s get cooking!

Black Walnut Banana Bread

Black Walnut Banana Bread

Zesty and zippy, this Black Walnut Banana Bread is the quirky cousin of your grandma’s classic recipe, packing a punch of flavor that’ll make your taste buds dance. Perfect for those overripe bananas mocking you from the counter, this loaf is a no-judgment zone where fun meets flavor.

Ingredients

  • Bananas – 3 large, mashed
  • Flour – 1 ½ cups
  • Sugar – ¾ cup
  • Eggs – 2
  • Butter – ½ cup, melted
  • Black walnuts – ½ cup, chopped
  • Baking soda – 1 tsp
  • Salt – ½ tsp

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan. Tip: A light spray of cooking oil ensures your bread won’t stick.
  2. In a large bowl, mix the mashed bananas and melted butter until well combined. Tip: The riper the bananas, the sweeter your bread will be.
  3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the sugar.
  4. Sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt, then gently fold into the banana mixture. Tip: Don’t overmix to keep the bread tender.
  5. Fold in the chopped black walnuts until evenly distributed.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
  7. Bake for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

This bread is a moist, nutty delight with a texture that’s just the right amount of dense. Serve it toasted with a smear of butter for breakfast, or as is for a midday snack that’s anything but basic.

Black Walnut Chocolate Chip Cookies

Black Walnut Chocolate Chip Cookies

Get ready to ditch your diet because these Black Walnut Chocolate Chip Cookies are about to become your new obsession. Packed with crunchy black walnuts and melty chocolate chips, they’re the perfect blend of nutty and sweet that’ll have you sneaking back to the cookie jar at midnight.

Ingredients

  • Flour – 2 cups
  • Baking soda – 1 tsp
  • Salt – ½ tsp
  • Butter – 1 cup, softened
  • Brown sugar – ¾ cup
  • White sugar – ¾ cup
  • Eggs – 2
  • Vanilla extract – 1 tsp
  • Black walnuts – 1 cup, chopped
  • Chocolate chips – 1 cup

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Tip: Sifting the flour can prevent lumps for a smoother dough.
  3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
  5. Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Tip: Don’t overmix to keep the cookies tender.
  6. Fold in the chopped black walnuts and chocolate chips. Tip: Toast the walnuts beforehand for an extra crunch.
  7. Drop tablespoon-sized dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
  8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden but the centers are still soft.
  9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Every bite of these cookies offers a delightful contrast between the crispy edges and chewy centers, with the black walnuts adding a sophisticated twist to the classic chocolate chip cookie. Serve them warm with a glass of cold milk for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Black Walnut Pancakes

Black Walnut Pancakes

Yippee! It’s time to flip the script on your morning routine with these nutty, delightful Black Walnut Pancakes that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance. Perfect for those who like their breakfast with a side of crunch and a dash of daring.

Ingredients

  • Flour – 1 cup
  • Black walnuts – ½ cup, chopped
  • Milk – 1 cup
  • Egg – 1
  • Baking powder – 1 tsp
  • Sugar – 2 tbsp
  • Salt – ½ tsp
  • Butter – 2 tbsp, melted

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
  2. In another bowl, beat the egg, then mix in milk and melted butter.
  3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Tip: Overmixing leads to tough pancakes, so embrace the lumps!
  4. Gently fold in the chopped black walnuts.
  5. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat (350°F) and lightly grease it.
  6. Pour ¼ cup of batter for each pancake onto the skillet. Tip: Wait for bubbles to form on the surface before flipping for that perfect golden hue.
  7. Cook for 2-3 minutes on the first side, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
  8. Repeat with the remaining batter. Tip: Keep cooked pancakes warm in a 200°F oven while you finish the batch.

Whoa! These pancakes are a textural masterpiece—crispy edges with a fluffy center and the earthy crunch of black walnuts. Serve them stacked high with a drizzle of maple syrup or a smear of apple butter for an autumnal twist.

Black Walnut Brownies

Black Walnut Brownies

Unbelievably, these Black Walnut Brownies are the fudgy, nutty heroes your dessert table has been dreaming of. Packed with rich chocolate and the bold crunch of black walnuts, they’re a rebellious twist on the classic that’ll have you sneaking seconds (and thirds).

Ingredients

  • Butter – ½ cup
  • Sugar – 1 cup
  • Eggs – 2
  • Vanilla extract – 1 tsp
  • Flour – ½ cup
  • Cocoa powder – ⅓ cup
  • Salt – ¼ tsp
  • Black walnuts – ¾ cup

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease an 8×8 inch baking pan. Tip: Lining the pan with parchment paper makes removal a breeze.
  2. Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl for 30 seconds, then stir in the sugar until well combined.
  3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract. Tip: Room temperature eggs blend more smoothly for a uniform batter.
  4. Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt, then gently fold into the wet ingredients until just combined. Tip: Overmixing can lead to tough brownies, so stop when you no longer see flour streaks.
  5. Fold in the black walnuts, then spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
  6. Bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Remember, they’ll continue to cook slightly as they cool.

So, what’s the verdict? These brownies are a textural masterpiece—crisp on the outside, gooey in the middle, with black walnuts adding a sophisticated crunch. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent twist, or enjoy them as is for a pure, unadulterated chocolate experience.

Black Walnut Pie

Black Walnut Pie

Dive into the decadent world of Black Walnut Pie, where every bite is a crunchy, nutty adventure that’ll have your taste buds doing a happy dance. This isn’t just any pie—it’s a conversation starter, a dessert that proudly wears its bold flavors like a badge of honor.

Ingredients

  • Black walnuts – 1 cup
  • Pie crust – 1 (9-inch)
  • Eggs – 3
  • Corn syrup – 1 cup
  • Sugar – 1 cup
  • Butter – 2 tbsp, melted
  • Vanilla extract – 1 tsp
  • Salt – ½ tsp

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your pie bakes evenly, avoiding any undercooked surprises.
  2. Chop the black walnuts into small pieces. Tip: Freezing them for 10 minutes makes chopping easier and less messy.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, corn syrup, sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. Tip: A fork works wonders here for breaking up any sugar lumps.
  4. Stir in the chopped black walnuts, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
  5. Pour the filling into the pie crust, spreading it out evenly. Tip: Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any spills and make transferring in and out of the oven a breeze.
  6. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
  7. Allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. This patience-testing step ensures clean slices and perfect texture.

Rich in flavor with a satisfying crunch, this Black Walnut Pie is a showstopper. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to elevate the experience to heavenly levels.

Black Walnut Fudge

Black Walnut Fudge

Every now and then, we stumble upon a recipe that’s so decadently divine, it feels like it was whipped up by the dessert gods themselves. Today, we’re diving into the world of black walnut fudge—a creamy, dreamy concoction that’ll have you swooning with every bite. It’s the kind of treat that makes you forget about your diet, at least until the last piece disappears.

Ingredients

  • Butter – ½ cup
  • Evaporated milk – 1 can (12 oz)
  • Granulated sugar – 2 cups
  • Semi-sweet chocolate chips – 1 cup
  • Black walnuts – 1 cup, chopped
  • Vanilla extract – 1 tsp

Instructions

  1. Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
  2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Tip: Keep the heat steady to avoid burning the butter.
  3. Add the evaporated milk and sugar to the saucepan, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves completely.
  4. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Tip: A rolling boil means bubbles that don’t disappear when stirred.
  5. Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly stir in the chocolate chips until melted and smooth.
  6. Fold in the chopped black walnuts and vanilla extract until evenly distributed.
  7. Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Tip: For extra smooth tops, lightly grease the spatula with butter.
  8. Let the fudge cool at room temperature for 2 hours, then refrigerate for another 2 hours until set.
  9. Using the parchment overhang, lift the fudge out of the pan and cut into 1-inch squares.

Lusciously rich with a nutty crunch, this black walnut fudge is a textural masterpiece. Serve it atop a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent twist, or simply enjoy it as is—because let’s be honest, it’s perfect in every form.

Black Walnut Ice Cream

Black Walnut Ice Cream

Oh, the audacity of black walnut ice cream to be this delicious! It’s like the underdog of desserts, quietly waiting in the shadows to steal the spotlight with its rich, nutty flavor and creamy texture that’ll have you questioning why you ever settled for plain vanilla.

Ingredients

  • Heavy cream – 2 cups
  • Whole milk – 1 cup
  • Granulated sugar – ¾ cup
  • Black walnut pieces – 1 cup
  • Vanilla extract – 1 tsp
  • Salt – ¼ tsp

Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves, about 5 minutes. Tip: Don’t let it boil—just warm enough to dissolve the sugar.
  2. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results. Tip: Chilling the mixture thoroughly ensures a smoother ice cream texture.
  3. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually about 20-25 minutes. Tip: The mixture should thicken to a soft-serve consistency.
  4. During the last 5 minutes of churning, add the black walnut pieces to incorporate them evenly throughout the ice cream.
  5. Transfer the ice cream to a lidded container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving to firm up.

So, what’s the verdict? This black walnut ice cream is a creamy dream with a crunch, offering a delightful contrast in every bite. Serve it atop a warm brownie for a decadent dessert that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Black Walnut Salad Dressing

Black Walnut Salad Dressing

Craving a dressing that’s as bold and nutty as your personality? Look no further than this Black Walnut Salad Dressing, a concoction that’ll make your greens go from meh to magnificent in just a few shakes.

Ingredients

  • Black walnuts – ½ cup
  • Olive oil – ¼ cup
  • Apple cider vinegar – 2 tbsp
  • Honey – 1 tbsp
  • Salt – ½ tsp

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and toast the black walnuts for 5 minutes to unlock their deep, earthy flavors.
  2. Once cooled, finely chop the walnuts. Tip: A food processor can save you time, but pulse carefully to avoid walnut butter.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and apple cider vinegar until the mixture is slightly thickened.
  4. Stir in the honey and salt, then fold in the chopped walnuts. Tip: For a smoother dressing, blend all ingredients except the walnuts, then stir them in last.
  5. Let the dressing sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to marry. Tip: This dressing thickens as it sits, so give it a quick whisk before drizzling.

Yum! This dressing is a textural dream with crunchy walnuts swimming in a velvety, sweet-tangy base. Try it over a crisp apple and kale salad for a fall-inspired twist that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Black Walnut Pesto Pasta

Black Walnut Pesto Pasta

So, you’ve stumbled upon the holy grail of pasta dishes that’s about to make your taste buds do a happy dance. Black Walnut Pesto Pasta isn’t just food; it’s a love letter to anyone who’s ever been in a complicated relationship with their blender.

Ingredients

  • Pasta – 12 oz
  • Black walnuts – 1 cup
  • Fresh basil – 2 cups
  • Garlic – 3 cloves
  • Parmesan cheese – ½ cup, grated
  • Olive oil – ½ cup
  • Salt – 1 tsp
  • Black pepper – ½ tsp

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Tip: Salt the water like the sea to flavor the pasta from the inside out.
  2. Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  3. While the pasta cooks, combine black walnuts, basil, garlic, Parmesan, olive oil, salt, and black pepper in a blender. Tip: Toast the walnuts lightly for a deeper flavor before blending.
  4. Blend the mixture on high until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. Tip: If the pesto is too thick, add a tablespoon of pasta water to loosen it up.
  5. Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of pasta water, then return the pasta to the pot.
  6. Add the pesto to the pasta, tossing to coat evenly. Use the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency if needed.
  7. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and black walnuts if desired.

Let’s talk about the magic in your bowl: the pesto clings to every noodle like it’s holding on for dear life, offering a nutty, garlicky punch with a hint of peppery freshness. Try serving it with a side of drama and a glass of your favorite white wine for the full experience.

Black Walnut Crusted Salmon

Black Walnut Crusted Salmon

Feast your eyes and forks on this Black Walnut Crusted Salmon, a dish that’s as easy to make as it is to devour. Perfect for when you’re trying to impress your date or just pretending you’re a gourmet chef on a random Tuesday.

Ingredients

  • Salmon fillets – 2 (6 oz each)
  • Black walnuts – ½ cup, finely chopped
  • Dijon mustard – 2 tbsp
  • Honey – 1 tbsp
  • Olive oil – 1 tbsp
  • Salt – ½ tsp
  • Black pepper – ¼ tsp

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  2. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure the crust sticks better.
  3. In a small bowl, mix together the Dijon mustard and honey to create a sticky glaze.
  4. Brush the top of each salmon fillet with the honey-mustard glaze, covering it evenly.
  5. Sprinkle the finely chopped black walnuts over the glazed salmon, pressing lightly to adhere.
  6. Drizzle olive oil over the walnuts to help them crisp up in the oven.
  7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
  9. Let the salmon rest for 2 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Zesty and crunchy, this Black Walnut Crusted Salmon is a textural dream with a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with a simple side of roasted veggies. Try serving it over a bed of quinoa for an extra health kick that doesn’t skimp on taste.

Black Walnut and Apple Stuffing

Black Walnut and Apple Stuffing

Alright, let’s dive into this delightful dish that’s about to make your taste buds do a happy dance. A blend of earthy black walnuts and sweet, tangy apples comes together in this stuffing that’s anything but ordinary—perfect for those who like their sides with a side of personality.

Ingredients

  • Bread cubes – 6 cups
  • Butter – ½ cup
  • Onion – 1 cup, diced
  • Celery – 1 cup, diced
  • Black walnuts – 1 cup, chopped
  • Apples – 2 cups, diced
  • Chicken broth – 2 cups
  • Salt – 1 tsp
  • Pepper – ½ tsp
  • Sage – 1 tbsp

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F—because good things come to those who bake.
  2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Tip: Keep an eye on it; butter has a knack for turning from golden to gone in seconds.
  3. Add the diced onion and celery to the skillet. Sauté until they’re softer than your favorite pillow, about 5 minutes.
  4. Toss in the black walnuts and apples, stirring like you mean it for another 3 minutes. Tip: The apples should be firm yet friendly—no mush allowed.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth, then sprinkle the salt, pepper, and sage. Stir until everything’s more united than a boy band.
  6. Gently fold the bread cubes into the skillet mixture. Tip: Be kind to your bread cubes; they’re the backbone of this operation.
  7. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes, or until the top is as golden as a sunset.

Mmm, the result? A stuffing that’s crispy on top, moist inside, with a flavor that’s a rollercoaster of sweet, savory, and nutty. Serve it alongside your main or, heck, make it the star of the show with a dollop of cranberry sauce on top.

Black Walnut Granola

Black Walnut Granola

Ready to crunch your way into breakfast bliss? This Black Walnut Granola is the sneaky little trick up your sleeve for turning the mundane morning munch into a gourmet getaway. Packed with bold flavors and a crunch that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance, it’s the hero your yogurt parfait has been dreaming of.

Ingredients

  • Rolled oats – 3 cups
  • Black walnuts – 1 cup, chopped
  • Maple syrup – ½ cup
  • Coconut oil – ¼ cup, melted
  • Salt – ½ tsp

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 300°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for an easy cleanup.
  2. In a large bowl, mix the rolled oats and chopped black walnuts together. Tip: For extra flavor, toast the walnuts lightly before adding them to the mix.
  3. Drizzle the maple syrup and melted coconut oil over the dry ingredients, then sprinkle the salt. Stir until everything is evenly coated. Tip: If the mixture feels too dry, add a tad more maple syrup, but don’t drown the oats!
  4. Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in an even layer. Tip: Pressing the granola down slightly will help it clump together for those perfect clusters.
  5. Bake for 45 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the granola is golden brown and smells like heaven.

Munch on this granola straight out of the jar, or get fancy by layering it with Greek yogurt and fresh berries for a parfait that’s as Instagram-worthy as it is delicious. The black walnuts add a deep, earthy crunch that’s downright addictive, making this granola a snack you’ll want to stash in every cupboard.

Black Walnut Energy Balls

Black Walnut Energy Balls

Oh boy, are you in for a treat with these no-bake wonders that pack a punch of energy and a whole lot of yum! Perfect for those ‘I need a snack stat’ moments, these Black Walnut Energy Balls are your ticket to blissful munching without the guilt.

Ingredients

  • Black walnuts – 1 cup
  • Dates – 1 cup
  • Cocoa powder – 2 tbsp
  • Maple syrup – 2 tbsp
  • Vanilla extract – 1 tsp

Instructions

  1. Place the black walnuts in a food processor and pulse until finely chopped, but not powdery. Tip: A few larger pieces add a nice crunch!
  2. Add the dates, cocoa powder, maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the food processor. Process until the mixture starts to clump together. Tip: If it’s too dry, add a teaspoon of water to help it bind.
  3. Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls with your hands. Tip: Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking.
  4. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

What you’ve got now are little spheres of joy that are chewy, nutty, and just the right amount of sweet. Try rolling them in extra cocoa powder or crushed walnuts for an extra fancy touch, or just pop them straight from the fridge when the snack attack hits!

Black Walnut Smoothie

Black Walnut Smoothie

Who knew that blending a handful of ingredients could transport you to nutty nirvana? This Black Walnut Smoothie is your ticket to a creamy, dreamy escape, no passport required.

Ingredients

  • Black walnuts – ½ cup
  • Banana – 1 large
  • Greek yogurt – ½ cup
  • Honey – 2 tbsp
  • Ice cubes – 1 cup
  • Milk – ½ cup

Instructions

  1. Gather all your ingredients and a blender. Trust me, you’ll want everything within arm’s reach.
  2. Add the black walnuts, banana, Greek yogurt, honey, ice cubes, and milk to the blender. Tip: Freeze your banana beforehand for an extra thick smoothie.
  3. Blend on high for 45 seconds, or until the mixture is completely smooth. No one likes a chunky smoothie.
  4. Pause to scrape down the sides of the blender with a spatula if needed. This ensures every last bit gets perfectly blended.
  5. Blend again for another 15 seconds. Tip: If the smoothie is too thick, add a splash more milk to reach your desired consistency.
  6. Pour into a tall glass and serve immediately. Tip: Garnish with a sprinkle of crushed black walnuts for a crunchy contrast.

Just like that, you’ve got a smoothie that’s rich, nutty, and just the right amount of sweet. Serve it with a colorful straw or drink it straight from the blender—we won’t judge.

Black Walnut Cheesecake

Black Walnut Cheesecake

Hold onto your forks, folks, because we’re diving fork-first into a dessert that’s as bold in flavor as it is in name—Black Walnut Cheesecake. This isn’t just any cheesecake; it’s a creamy, nutty adventure that’ll have your taste buds doing backflips.

Ingredients

  • Graham cracker crumbs – 1 ½ cups
  • Butter – ½ cup, melted
  • Cream cheese – 24 oz, softened
  • Sugar – 1 cup
  • Eggs – 4
  • Black walnut extract – 1 tsp
  • Sour cream – 1 cup

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F. This ensures a perfectly baked cheesecake without the dreaded cracks.
  2. Mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl until well combined. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create your crust. Tip: Use the bottom of a glass to press the crumbs evenly.
  3. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in black walnut extract and sour cream until just combined. Tip: Overmixing can introduce too much air, leading to cracks.
  4. Pour the filling over the crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until the center is almost set but still slightly wobbly. Tip: A water bath can help prevent cracks by providing even heat.
  5. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour. This gradual cooling helps prevent sinking.
  6. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, before serving.

Yum doesn’t even begin to cover it. This Black Walnut Cheesecake is a creamy, dreamy masterpiece with a nutty twist that’s downright addictive. Serve it with a drizzle of caramel or a sprinkle of chopped black walnuts for an extra touch of elegance.

Black Walnut Caramel Popcorn

Black Walnut Caramel Popcorn

Mmm, imagine this: a snack so irresistibly crunchy and sweet, it’s like your favorite caramel popcorn decided to dress up in its fanciest black-tie attire—black walnut style. This isn’t just any popcorn; it’s a gourmet twist on a classic that’ll have you sneaking handfuls when no one’s looking.

Ingredients

  • Popcorn kernels – ½ cup
  • Unsalted butter – ½ cup
  • Brown sugar – 1 cup
  • Light corn syrup – ¼ cup
  • Salt – ½ tsp
  • Vanilla extract – 1 tsp
  • Baking soda – ¼ tsp
  • Black walnuts – 1 cup, chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 250°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Pop the popcorn kernels using your preferred method and spread them out on the prepared baking sheet, removing any unpopped kernels.
  3. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, then stir in the brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly.
  4. Once boiling, stop stirring and let the mixture boil for 4 minutes exactly. Tip: Use a timer for precision—caramel waits for no one.
  5. Remove from heat and quickly stir in the vanilla extract and baking soda. The mixture will foam up—this is normal and adds that light, airy texture.
  6. Immediately pour the caramel over the popcorn, tossing to coat evenly. Sprinkle the chopped black walnuts over the top.
  7. Bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even coating and to prevent clumping. Tip: This is the perfect time to clean up or dance around your kitchen.
  8. Remove from the oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet. Tip: Resist the urge to taste early—caramel is hotter than it looks.

Light, crunchy, and packed with the rich, earthy flavor of black walnuts, this caramel popcorn is a showstopper. Serve it in big bowls at your next gathering, or—let’s be real—keep it all to yourself for those solo Netflix marathons.

Black Walnut Oatmeal Cookies

Black Walnut Oatmeal Cookies

Yum, who knew that black walnuts could turn your average oatmeal cookie into a crunchy, nutty masterpiece? These cookies are the perfect blend of chewy and crisp, with a flavor that’s anything but ordinary.

Ingredients

  • Butter – 1 cup
  • Brown sugar – 1 cup
  • Eggs – 2
  • Vanilla extract – 1 tsp
  • Flour – 1 ½ cups
  • Baking soda – 1 tsp
  • Salt – ½ tsp
  • Oats – 3 cups
  • Black walnuts – 1 cup

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
  3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
  6. Fold in the oats and black walnuts until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
  7. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden but the centers are still soft.
  9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

So, what’s the verdict? These cookies are a textural dream—crispy on the outside, chewy on the inside, with the bold, earthy crunch of black walnuts. Serve them with a cold glass of milk or crumble them over vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Black Walnut Bread Pudding

Black Walnut Bread Pudding

Ever find yourself staring at a loaf of stale bread, wondering if it’s destined for the trash or a second act? Well, buckle up, because we’re about to turn that bread into a show-stopping Black Walnut Bread Pudding that’ll have you doing a happy dance in your kitchen.

Ingredients

  • Bread – 4 cups, cubed
  • Black walnuts – 1 cup, chopped
  • Milk – 2 cups
  • Eggs – 3
  • Sugar – ¾ cup
  • Vanilla extract – 1 tsp
  • Cinnamon – ½ tsp
  • Butter – 2 tbsp, melted

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish with butter.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth.
  3. Tip: For an extra fluffy texture, let the milk and eggs sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before mixing.
  4. Add the cubed bread and chopped black walnuts to the bowl, gently folding them into the wet mixture until fully coated.
  5. Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes, allowing the bread to soak up all that creamy goodness.
  6. Tip: Press down on the bread with a spatula halfway through to ensure even absorption.
  7. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and drizzle with melted butter.
  8. Bake for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
  9. Tip: To check for doneness, insert a knife into the center; if it comes out clean, your pudding is ready.
  10. Remove from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Now, this Black Walnut Bread Pudding is a masterpiece of contrasts—crispy on top, custardy in the middle, with the earthy crunch of black walnuts stealing the show. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert that’s anything but ordinary.

Conclusion

Magnificent! This roundup of 18 black walnut recipes offers something for every taste and occasion, from sweet treats to savory dishes. We hope these recipes inspire you to explore the rich, earthy flavor of black walnuts in your kitchen. Don’t forget to leave a comment with your favorite recipe and share this article on Pinterest to spread the walnut love!

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