Walnut Party Balls
Walnut Party Balls are delightful, nutty treats with candied cherries, perfect for parties or special occasions, offering a sweet, crunchy, and rich flavor combination.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream shortening and sugar until fluffy.
- Blend in egg yolk.
- Sift flour into creamed mixture alternately with milk.
- Add vanilla and chopped candied cherries.
- Shape the mixture into small balls.
- Beat egg white until foamy.
- Dip each ball in egg white, let drain, then roll in chopped walnuts.
- Place on a lightly greased baking sheet.
- Bake in a hot oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15 to 18 minutes or until lightly browned.
- Remove from oven and place on wire racks to cool.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using all butter instead of a mix of butter and shortening. If you want to lighten the texture, try substituting half the flour with almond flour or adding a bit of baking powder. Make sure to sift the flour well to avoid lumps in the dough. You can also experiment with different nuts or include a touch of cinnamon for added warmth in the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These Walnut Party Balls are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a delightful snack alongside a cup of White Hot Chocolate. Serve them on a platter with a side of Cherry Jubilee Salad for a refreshing contrast, or pair them with an Ambrosia Shake for a sweet treat. They also make great additions to a dessert table at parties.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Walnut Party Balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them for up to two weeks. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes until warmed through, ensuring they retain their crispy exterior.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Walnut Party Balls contains roughly 116 calories, with 2g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 3g 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 different nuts instead of walnuts?
Absolutely! While walnuts add a lovely crunch and flavor, you can substitute with pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts. Just make sure to chop them finely to ensure they adhere well to the balls.
What can I do if the dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky to shape into balls, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will firm up the mixture and make it easier to handle. You can also add a little more sifted flour, a tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
Can these be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days before baking. Just make sure to cover it tightly to prevent drying out. Bake them fresh on the day you plan to serve for the best flavor and 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).