There’s nothing quite like biting into a freshly baked chocolate chip cookie—especially when it’s packed with crunchy, buttery walnuts. This Walnut Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe delivers the ultimate homemade cookie experience with soft, chewy centers and perfectly golden edges.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
-
High-protein snack thanks to nutritious walnuts
-
Perfect for bake sales, potlucks, and gifts
-
Soft and chewy texture with crispy edges
-
Freezer-friendly and great for make-ahead baking
-
Customizable for any flavor preference
Ingredients Breakdown
Dry Ingredients:
-
2¼ cups all-purpose flour – Provides structur .
-
1 tsp baking soda – Helps the cookies rise and spread properly.
-
½ tsp salt – Enhances sweetness and balances flavors.
Wet Ingredients:
-
1 cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and ensures a tender texture.
-
¾ cup granulated sugar – Gives the cookies crisp edges.
-
¾ cup packed brown sugar – Adds moisture and a deep, caramel-like flavor.
-
2 large eggs – Bind the ingredients and add richness.
-
2 tsp vanilla extract – Boosts the overall flavor and aroma.
Add-Ins:
-
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips – Melty, sweet chocolate in every bite.
-
1 cup chopped walnuts – Adds crunch and a nutty balance to the sweetness.
Tips and Tricks
-
Chill the dough for 30 minutes to prevent spreading and create thicker cookies.
-
Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized cookies.
-
Slightly underbake for chewier centers—cookies continue baking on the sheet.
-
Toast the walnuts beforehand for added flavor depth.
Variations and Customizations
-
Double Chocolate: Replace ½ cup flour with unsweetened cocoa powder
-
Nut-Free: Omit walnuts and replace with additional chocolate or dried cranberries
-
White Chocolate and Macadamia: Swap chocolate chips and walnuts for white chocolate and chopped macadamia nuts
-
Oatmeal Walnut Cookies: Replace 1 cup flour with quick oats for a heartier cookie
Pairing Suggestions
-
Serve warm with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee
-
Pair with vanilla bean ice cream for a decadent dessert
-
Perfect addition to a cookie platter for parties or gifting
Storage Instructions
-
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days
-
Freezer: Freeze baked cookies or dough balls for up to 3 months
-
Reheating Tip: Microwave cookies for 10 seconds for that fresh-baked warmth
Popular Questions
Can I use pecans instead of walnuts?
Yes, pecans are a great substitute and offer a sweeter, softer texture.
How do I make the cookies gluten-free?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Be sure all mix-ins are certified gluten-free.
Why did my cookies turn out flat?
This can happen if your butter is too warm. Chill the dough for better shape retention.