Black Walnut Cream
A rich, creamy black walnut confection with a smooth texture and nutty flavor, perfect for those who enjoy decadent, nut-infused sweets and homemade candies.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook sugar and light Karo syrup until soft ball stage.
- Add black walnuts and let cool slightly.
- Beat until smooth and glossy, then add vanilla.
- Pour into a buttered pan and allow to set before cutting.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, make sure to chop the black walnuts finely. If you don't have black walnuts, you can substitute with regular walnuts, though the flavor will be milder. To check for the soft ball stage, drop a small amount of the syrup into cold water; it should form a soft ball. If you enjoy nutty desserts, consider trying it alongside My Favorite Cookies.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the Black Walnut Cream into squares for easy serving. It pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea, making it a great afternoon treat. For a festive touch, serve alongside slices of Eastern Shore Sweet Potato Pie to create a delightful dessert platter. You might also enjoy it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Black Walnut Cream in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If the mixture hardens, you can soften it slightly in the microwave for a few seconds, ensuring it doesn't get too hot. Avoid refrigerating, as this can change the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Black Walnut Cream contains roughly 359 calories, with 9g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of syrup instead of light Karo syrup?
While light Karo syrup is recommended for its sweetness and consistency, you can use corn syrup or a mix of honey and sugar as alternatives. Just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the final product.
How do I know when the sugar and syrup mixture has reached the soft ball stage?
To check for the soft ball stage, drop a small amount of the syrup into a glass of cold water. If it forms a soft, pliable ball that flattens when removed, you're ready to proceed. If it dissolves or is too hard, you need to cook it longer.
Can I add other nuts to the recipe?
Yes, you can add other nuts like pecans or almonds for a different flavor profile. However, if you want to maintain the traditional taste, it's best to stick with black walnuts. Mixing nuts can create a unique texture and taste, so feel free to experiment!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).