Winters are here and it’s time to cozy up with some crunchy, flavorful, and healthy snack options. Walnuts, in particular, make a fantastic addition to many snacks, thanks to their rich, nutty flavor and impressive nutritional profile. Packed with omega-3s, antioxidants, and fiber, walnuts are the perfect ingredient to incorporate into your daily snacking routine.
In this article, we’ll explore 19 mouthwatering walnut snack recipes that will satisfy your cravings and keep you energized throughout the day. From sweet treats like Cinnamon Honey Roasted Walnuts to savory bites like Rosemary Garlic Roasted Walnuts, there’s something for everyone in this diverse collection of recipes.
Cinnamon Honey Roasted Walnuts
Elevate your snacking game with these sweet and savory Cinnamon Honey Roasted Walnuts. This easy recipe combines the natural crunch of walnuts with the warmth of cinnamon and the stickiness of honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup walnut halves
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add the walnut halves to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the honey mixture.
4. Spread the walnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until fragrant and caramelized.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spiced Maple Glazed Walnuts
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the richness of walnuts, the warmth of spices, and the sweetness of maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup walnut halves
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together maple syrup, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Add walnut halves to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the glaze.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the glazed walnuts in a single layer.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until fragrant and caramelized, stirring halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dark Chocolate Covered Walnut Clusters
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these rich and indulgent treats, perfect for snacking or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup (200g) chopped walnuts
• 1/2 cup (100g) dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together walnuts and honey until well combined.
3. Drop small spoonfuls of the walnut mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) between each cluster.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until fragrant and lightly toasted.
5. Remove from oven and let cool completely on a wire rack.
6. Melt dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
7. Dip cooled walnut clusters into melted chocolate, using a fork to coat evenly.
8. Place coated clusters onto parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (walnuts), 30 minutes (chocolate setting)
Enjoy your delicious Dark Chocolate Covered Walnut Clusters!
Orange Zest and Walnut Energy Bites
Boost your energy with these bite-sized treats packed with the invigorating flavors of orange zest and walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats and peanut butter until well mixed.
2. Add the honey, orange zest, and walnuts to the mixture. Stir until smooth and combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small energy balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Place the energy bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
6. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None, as these no-bake energy bites are ready to devour!
Salted Caramel Walnut Popcorn Mix
Elevate your popcorn game with this addictive mix of salty and sweet flavors, combined with the crunch of walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup caramel bits (such as Caramello or Werther’s)
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and sea salt.
3. Add the popped popcorn to the sugar mixture and stir until evenly coated.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Fold in the chopped walnuts.
6. Melt the caramel bits in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
7. Pour the melted caramel over the popcorn mixture and stir until combined.
8. Spread the mix on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Rosemary Garlic Roasted Walnuts
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the earthy sweetness of walnuts with the herbaceousness of rosemary and pungency of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup walnut halves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and rosemary.
3. Add the walnut halves to the bowl and toss until they’re evenly coated with the mixture.
4. Spread the walnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until fragrant and lightly browned.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with salt to taste.
7. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Walnut and Date Granola Bars
Walnut and Date Granola Bars Recipe
These chewy granola bars are packed with the natural sweetness of dates, the crunch of walnuts, and a hint of cinnamon. Perfect for a quick snack or breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped dates
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, dates, and walnuts.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well coated.
5. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoky Paprika Walnut Brittle
Smoky Paprika Walnut Brittle Recipe
A sweet and savory treat that combines the flavors of smoky paprika, crunchy walnuts, and a hint of maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120g) light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup (60g) water
– 1 tsp (5g) baking soda
– 1/2 tsp (2.5g) smoky paprika
– 1/2 cup (30g) chopped walnuts
– 1/4 tsp (1.25g) sea salt
– 1 tbsp (15g) pure maple syrup
Instructions:
1. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a medium saucepan.
3. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to medium-low.
4. Simmer for 10 minutes or until the mixture reaches 300°F (150°C) on a candy thermometer.
5. Remove from heat and stir in baking soda, smoky paprika, walnuts, and sea salt.
6. Pour onto prepared baking sheet and let cool slightly.
7. Use a spatula to spread and shape into desired form.
8. Allow to cool completely before breaking into pieces.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Coconut Lime Walnut Trail Mix
Elevate your snack game with this refreshing trail mix that combines the sweetness of coconut, the tanginess of lime, and the crunch of walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup mixed nuts (walnuts, almonds, cashews)
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon lime zest
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine oats, mixed nuts, and shredded coconut.
2. In a small saucepan, melt the honey over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in lime zest.
3. Pour the honey-lime mixture over the dry ingredients and toss until everything is well coated.
4. Stir in dried cranberries and dark chocolate chips.
5. Sprinkle with salt to balance out the flavors.
6. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Walnut and Cranberry Oatmeal Cookies
These soft-baked cookies combine the warmth of oatmeal with the sweetness of cranberries and the crunch of walnuts, making them a perfect treat for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Stir in walnuts and cranberries.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Spicy Chili Lime Walnuts
Spicy Chili Lime Walnuts Recipe
Elevate your snack game with these spicy and addictive Spicy Chili Lime Walnuts! With a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and heat, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup walnut halves
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in lime juice, chili powder, salt, and cayenne pepper until well combined.
4. Add walnut halves to the saucepan and toss until coated with the chili-lime mixture.
5. Spread walnuts on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until fragrant and caramelized.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Walnut and Banana Chia Pudding
A creamy and nutritious breakfast or snack option, this walnut and banana chia pudding is a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1 ripe banana, mashed
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together chia seeds, mashed banana, honey, and vanilla extract.
2. Add the almond milk and stir until well combined.
3. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow it to gel.
4. Just before serving, sprinkle the chopped walnuts on top and add a pinch of salt.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (or overnight)
Brown Butter Walnut Rice Crispy Treats
Brown Butter Walnut Rice Crispy Treats Recipe
These crispy treats combine the flavors of brown butter, walnuts, and rice for a delicious snack. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a special treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup browned butter (see note)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cooked rice, brown sugar, and corn syrup. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 300°F (hard-ball stage).
3. Remove from heat and stir in browned butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Let cool slightly.
4. Fold in chopped walnuts.
5. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
7. Allow to cool completely before breaking into pieces.
Note: To make browned butter, melt 1/2 cup unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the butter turns a light brown color and has a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes). Let cool before using.
Walnut and Pumpkin Seed Snack Bites
Get ready to crunch into a delightful snack with these bite-sized treats that combine the earthy flavors of walnuts and pumpkin seeds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, walnuts, and pumpkin seeds.
3. In a small saucepan, heat the honey over low heat until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in olive oil.
4. Pour the honey mixture over the oat mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow to cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vanilla Bean Walnut Granola
Add a crunchy twist to your morning routine with this sweet and nutty granola recipe, featuring the warmth of vanilla bean and the earthiness of walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, walnuts, brown sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry mixture and stir until everything is well combined.
4. Spread the granola mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly toasted, stirring occasionally.
5. Remove from oven and let cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Walnut and Apricot Stuffed Dates
Elevate your appetizer game with these sweet and savory stuffed dates, perfect for parties or gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 12 pitted dates
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together chopped walnuts and dried apricots.
3. Stuff each date with about 1 teaspoon of the walnut-apricot mixture.
4. Drizzle honey over the stuffed dates and sprinkle with salt to taste.
5. Place the stuffed dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the dates.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the dates are caramelized and slightly puffed.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Curry Roasted Walnut and Chickpea Mix
A flavorful and nutritious snack or appetizer that combines the crunch of roasted walnuts with the creamy richness of chickpeas, all infused with a warm and aromatic curry flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight and drained
– 1/2 cup walnut halves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, toss together chickpeas, walnut halves, olive oil, curry powder, and cumin until well coated.
3. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the walnuts are golden brown and the chickpeas are crispy.
5. Remove from the oven and season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
7. Serve warm or let cool completely for a crunchy snack.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Walnut and Dark Chocolate Bark with Sea Salt
Walnut and Dark Chocolate Bark with Sea Salt Recipe
This rich and indulgent bark combines the earthy flavor of walnuts with the deep, velvety texture of dark chocolate and a touch of sea salt for added depth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup (50g) chopped fresh walnuts
– 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt
– Optional: 1 tablespoon (15ml) heavy cream or whole milk
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir in the chopped walnuts and sea salt until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. If desired, drizzle with heavy cream or whole milk for added shine.
6. Allow the bark to set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before breaking into pieces.
Cooking Time: None! Let it set and enjoy.
Walnut Butter Stuffed Pretzels
Walnut Butter Stuffed Pretzels Recipe
Satisfy your sweet and salty cravings with these soft and chewy pretzels filled with a rich walnut butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of pretzel rods (about 12-15 rods)
– 1/2 cup walnut butter
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, mix together walnut butter, brown sugar, and salt until smooth.
3. Dip each pretzel rod into the beaten egg and then roll in the walnut butter mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place coated pretzels on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each pretzel.
5. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until golden brown.
Summary
Get ready to crunch into the perfect snack with these 19 delicious walnut recipes! From sweet treats like Cinnamon Honey Roasted Walnuts and Dark Chocolate Covered Walnut Clusters, to savory bites like Rosemary Garlic Roasted Walnuts and Smoky Paprika Walnut Brittle, there’s something for everyone. Plus, healthy options like Orange Zest and Walnut Energy Bites and Coconut Lime Walnut Trail Mix make it easy to indulge without compromising your diet. Whether you’re a fan of sweet or savory, these walnut recipes are sure to satisfy your snacking cravings!
