Lebanon Nut Cookies
Lebanese nut cookies feature a delicate, buttery texture with a rich walnut flavor, shaped into nests with sweet powdered sugar, perfect for sharing at celebrations or as a gift.
Ingredients
Instructions
- With a pastry blender or two knives scissor-fashion, cut the butter into the sifted flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add about 1/4 cup of water and toss quickly together to form a smooth dough ball.
- Form the dough into a shape, then break off walnut-sized pieces.
- Roll each piece into a ball and place on a cookie sheet.
- Make a large indentation in the center of each ball to form little nests.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter and adding a pinch of salt to the flour mixture. If walnuts aren't available, pecans can be a delightful substitute. Ensure the dough is not overly wet; add water gradually until just combined. Chilling the dough for about 30 minutes can improve the texture. For a unique twist, try incorporating a teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are delicious on their own but can also be served with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. They pair beautifully with Grapes With Cinnamon Walnut Cream for a sweet contrast. For a festive presentation, consider dusting them with additional powdered sugar before serving or arranging them on a decorative platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store the Lebanon Nut Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lebanon Nut Cookies contains roughly 1807 calories, with 12g protein, 199g carbohydrates, and 109g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value), calcium (27% of the Daily Value), and protein (24% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 559mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
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 nut instead of walnuts?
Yes, you can substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds if you prefer. Each nut will provide a slightly different flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment based on your taste preferences or allergies.
What should I do if my dough is too crumbly?
If your dough appears too crumbly and doesn’t hold together, gradually add a bit more water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough can form a ball. Be careful not to add too much water at once.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before rolling into balls.
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).