Maple Walnut Cups(Cookies)
Maple Walnut Cups are delightful individual cookies featuring a buttery crust, sweet maple syrup, and crunchy walnuts, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy snacking.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a medium bowl, knead together flour, softened butter or margarine, and sugar until well blended.
- Divide the dough into 16 equal pieces.
- Press each piece into the bottoms and up the sides of 16 (1 3/4-inch) muffin pan cups to form a crust.
- In a 1-quart saucepan over low heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter.
- Remove from heat; stir in dark corn syrup, maple extract, egg, and 1 tablespoon of sugar until smooth.
- Sprinkle chopped walnuts evenly into each pastry cup.
- Spoon the syrup mixture over the walnuts in each cup.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the crust is lightly browned and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool slightly and then store in the refrigerator.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, you can substitute half of the walnuts with pecans or add a pinch of cinnamon to the dough. If you don't have maple extract, try using vanilla extract for a different but still delicious taste. Ensure the butter is softened for easier mixing, and consider chilling the dough for about 15 minutes before pressing it into the muffin cups to help maintain its shape while baking.
Serving Suggestions
These Maple Walnut Cups make a delightful dessert or snack, perfect for coffee or tea time. Serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. They complement well with a fruit salad or can be enjoyed alongside a slice of Great Grandma Lizzie'S Orange-Sponge Cake for a nostalgic touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Maple Walnut Cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5-10 minutes, until warmed through. This helps to restore the crispness of the crust while keeping the filling deliciously gooey.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Maple Walnut Cups(Cookies) contains roughly 159 calories, with 2g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 7g fat.
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 make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. When you're ready to bake, simply press the dough into the muffin cups and proceed with the filling. This makes it convenient for gatherings or last-minute cravings.
What if I don't have dark corn syrup?
If you don't have dark corn syrup, light corn syrup can be used as a substitute, though it will result in a slightly lighter flavor. Alternatively, you can use a mixture of honey and brown sugar to achieve a similar consistency and taste.
Can I freeze the Maple Walnut Cups?
Yes, you can freeze the baked Maple Walnut Cups. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat before serving for the best texture.
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).