Old Fashioned Walnut Balls
Old Fashioned Walnut Balls are delightful, nutty cookies with a tender crumb and a dusting of powdered sugar. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat, their rich walnut flavor and buttery texture make them a timeless favorite for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream butter, brown sugar, and vanilla until fluffy.
- Sift flour and salt together; add to the creamed mixture.
- Mix well to make a soft dough.
- Stir in finely ground walnuts or pecans.
- Break off pieces of dough the size of a walnut and shape into balls.
- Bake on an ungreased cookie sheet at 375°F (190°C) for 12 to 15 minutes.
- Remove from the cookie sheet with a spatula. Cool slightly and roll in powdered sugar.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider toasting the walnuts or pecans before grinding them. If you don’t have brown sugar, you can substitute it with white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses. Ensure you sift the flour and salt together to avoid clumps in the dough. Chill the dough briefly for easier handling if it becomes too soft.
Serving Suggestions
These walnut balls are delightful on their own but can be served alongside a cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat. For a festive presentation, consider dusting them with extra powdered sugar just before serving. They can also be paired with other desserts like Memmie'S Chocolate Pie for a lovely dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover walnut balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator where they can last for two weeks. If you want to enjoy them warm, you can reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Fashioned Walnut Balls contains roughly 177 calories, with 2g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 17g 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 use other nuts instead of walnuts or pecans?
Yes, you can substitute walnuts or pecans with other nuts like almonds or hazelnuts. Just ensure they are finely ground to maintain the texture of the cookie. This flexibility allows you to customize the flavor to your preference.
Can I make the dough in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to three days. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. When ready to bake, allow it to soften slightly at room temperature before shaping into balls.
How do I know when the walnut balls are done baking?
The walnut balls are done when they are lightly golden on the bottom and firm to the touch. They may look slightly soft on top, but they will firm up as they cool. Avoid overbaking to maintain a tender 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).