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Home » Recipes » Desserts

Chinese Walnut Cookies Recipe: Old Fashioned Classic

Published: Jan 17, 2024 · Modified: Apr 3, 2024 by Yuan

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As the Chinese Lunar New Year approaches, almost every Chinese household across the globe prepares to bring in good fortune and prosperity. Chinese walnut cookies (hup toh soh 核桃酥) hold special significance in Chinese culture. These crunchy, golden-brown treats cookies are commonly prepared and shared during the Chinese New Year for good luck, and nowadays, they remain popular as a snack for all ages. So, have you ever wondered how to make the most delectable walnut cookies?  In this blog post, we will explore everything about these traditional Chinese Walnut Cookies. So you can taste Chinese culture in your home with this perfect recipe for Chinese walnut cookies.

Chinese walnut cookies 9
Jump To
  • Ingredients 
  • Detailed baking instructions 
  • Pro tips
  • Variations and modern twists
  • Storing the leftover Chinese walnut cookies
  • Final thoughts
  • Chinese Walnut Cookies Recipe: Old Fashioned Classic
  • YOU MAY ALSO LIKE

Ingredients 

Cake flour: Cake flour has less protein than all-purpose flour, resulting in a lighter texture. 

ingredients

Baking soda: causing the dough to rise and resulting in a softer texture.

Baking powder: Baking powder is a leavening agent for lift; it ensures the cookies achieve the perfect rise, resulting in a light and crunchy texture.

Cornstarch: Cornstarch is often used in cookie recipes to tenderize the dough. It helps absorb moisture, resulting in softer and more delicate cookies.

Lard: Lard is a type of fat that can enhance the flavor of baked goods. Lard is an old-fashioned way to make Chinese walnut cookies. Using lard helps achieve a desirable texture, making the cookies crumbly and melt-in-your-mouth. You can also substitute with unsalted butter or cooking oil, but keep in mind the texture of the cookie may be slightly different. 

Sugar: It sweetens the dough.

Eggs: I used two eggs for the cookie dough and one for brushing.

Chopped walnut pieces: Chopped walnut pieces add flavor, texture, and crunch to the cookies. They especially contribute a nutty taste.

Roasted black sesame seeds: for garnish, it is optional.

Detailed baking instructions 

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Gather all the ingredients and use a rolling pin to grind the walnut halves into smaller chunks on a clean surface.

steps 1-6

In a large mixing bowl, mix sugar and lard until the mixture reaches a light and fluffy consistency.

Gradually add baking powder, cornstarch, and baking soda until well combined.

Gently add cake flour and eggs into the mixture until a smooth cookie dough forms.

steps 7-12

Fold the walnut chunks into the cookie dough mixture and mix well. Arrange the cookie dough balls on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet.

Roll the dough into round balls and flatten each dough ball slightly with your fingertips or the back of a spoon. 

Give each cookie a gentle egg wash, then sprinkle some roasted sesame seeds with a spoon. (You can also press a piece of walnut half into the center of each cookie, adding it as a decorative touch.)

Bake for 25-30 minutes in a preheated oven. Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely before serving. Enjoy!

Pro tips

Here are some pro tips to ensure the Chinese walnut cookies have the best results:

close
  • Creaming method: Cream the lard and sugar thoroughly until light and fluffy for the best flavor.
  • Chill dough: After preparing the cookie dough, it will be a good idea to chill it in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. It is an option, but chilled dough prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
  • Consistent size: Use a cookie scoop or measuring spoon to ensure uniform-sized cookies.
  • Proper baking time: Bake the cookies just until the edges are lightly golden brown. Do not overcook. Overbaking can result in dry cookies. Remember that cookies continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven.
  • Cooling rack: Transfer the cookies to a cooling rack once they are out of the oven. This prevents them from continuing to cook on the hot baking sheet.

Variations and modern twists

Vegan options: Experiment with vegan butter or allergy-friendly substitutes to replace the lard to meet different dietary preferences. 

Different nuts: Consider adding other nuts, such as cashews or almonds, for a unique twist.

Chinese walnut cookies 10

Chocolate chip walnut cookies: For those who love a sweet and savory combination, try adding chocolate chips to the cookie dough for some walnut chocolate chip cookies. 

Storing the leftover Chinese walnut cookies

If you have leftover Chinese walnut cookies,  you can store the cookies in an airtight container or a ziplock bag in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Make sure the container is sealed tightly. While it's not necessary, some people prefer refrigerating cookies. If you choose to refrigerate, make sure the cookies are in an airtight container. 

You can also freeze Chinese walnut cookies. Wrap them individually or place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw at room temperature when ready to eat.

Final thoughts

Chinese walnut cookies are a great way to taste Chinese culture right in your own home. Whether you enjoy it with a cup of tea or coffee, these Chinese walnut cookies bring delicate texture, a nutty taste, the warmth of tradition, and hope for a prosperous year ahead.  With the right ingredients and baking techniques, you can have some delicious homemade snacks in no time.

For those who have yet to try these sweet treats, what are you waiting for? Try making Chinese walnut cookies for your family gatherings, and feel free to share your experience in the comments below. Happy baking!

Chinese walnut cookies 9

Chinese Walnut Cookies Recipe: Old Fashioned Classic

Chinese walnut cookies (hup toh soh 核桃酥) are crunchy, golden-brown treats that hold special significance in Chinese culture.
5 from 11 votes
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes minutes
Servings: 14 cookies
Calories: 156kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 cup and 2 tablespoons cake flour
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • 4 teaspoons cornstarch
  • 8 tablespoons lard
  • ½ cup sugar
  • 3 eggs two for the cookies, one for bush
  • ½ cup chopping walnut pieces
  • roasted black sesame seeds for garnish, optional

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Gather all the ingredients and use a rolling pin to grind the walnut halves into smaller chunks on a clean surface.
  • In a large mixing bowl, mix sugar and lard until the mixture reaches a light and fluffy consistency.
  • Gradually add baking powder, cornstarch, and baking soda until well combined.
  • Gently add cake flour and eggs into the mixture until a smooth cookie dough forms.
  • Fold the walnut chunks into the cookie dough mixture and mix well. Arrange the cookie dough balls on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet.
  • Roll the dough into round balls and flatten each dough ball slightly with your fingertips or the back of a spoon.
  • Give each cookie a gentle egg wash, then sprinkle some roasted sesame seeds with a spoon. (You can also press a piece of walnut half into the center of each cookie, adding it as a decorative touch.)
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes in a preheated oven. Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely before serving. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 156kcal | Carbohydrates: 12.2g | Protein: 3.4g | Fat: 10.9g | Saturated Fat: 3.4g | Cholesterol: 60mg | Sodium: 1000mg | Potassium: 406mg | Fiber: 0.5g | Sugar: 3.7g | Calcium: 165mg | Iron: 1mg
Tried this recipe? Leave a comment below, and tag me @sassychopsticks9 or tag #sassychopsticks9 on Instagram!

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Comments

  1. Bernice says

    January 22, 2024 at 11:57 am

    5 stars
    I love the texture on these walnut cookies but the flavour is also great. They are delicious without being too sweet and they are great with a cup of tea!

    Reply
  2. Marta says

    January 22, 2024 at 2:15 pm

    5 stars
    I'm planning a lunar new year party next month and made these walnut cookies as a trial run. I'm happy to report that the family loved them and they'll be the edible gift I send my guests home with.

    Reply
  3. Gloria says

    January 22, 2024 at 2:33 pm

    5 stars
    These look and sound delicious. I love nuts, and these seem like they will not be overly sweet. Perfect with a cup of tea or coffee.

    Reply
  4. sophie says

    January 22, 2024 at 2:57 pm

    5 stars
    Your Chinese Walnut Cookies recipe was an absolute delight! The crispy and buttery texture combined with the crunch of walnuts created a perfect harmony of flavors. Following your clear instructions made the baking process a breeze, and the end result was a batch of irresistible cookies that received rave reviews from everyone who tasted them.

    Reply
  5. Lauren says

    January 22, 2024 at 7:26 pm

    5 stars
    I just had to try these Chinese walnut cookies as I absolutely love walnuts. These may just be my new favorite cookie now!

    Reply
  6. Elaine says

    January 23, 2024 at 7:19 am

    5 stars
    I made these yesterday, and they were so good. I love walnuts and I loved the texture of the cookies. Hubby had three of them in 5 minutes. High praise indeed.

    Reply
  7. Krysten says

    January 27, 2024 at 10:04 am

    5 stars
    My daughter loves to bake and she especially loves to try new foods from around the world. We've added this recipe to the list; can't wait to try it out. I bet the cake flour makes these cookies light and airy!

    Reply
  8. Monica says

    January 28, 2024 at 6:54 am

    5 stars
    So buttery and delicious! I am saving this to make for a party my friends are hosting for the Lunar New Year - with all the detailed instructions, I am excited to know I can execute these and bring something traditional, despite not growing up with these beautiful foods and celebrations. Thank you!

    Reply
  9. Hayley Dhanecha says

    January 28, 2024 at 8:08 am

    5 stars
    Few years back my Chinese friend brought these cookies for our afternoon tea, loved it so much. Now that I have your recipe, I can make these too. Thanks for the recipe.

    Reply
  10. Erin says

    January 28, 2024 at 12:48 pm

    5 stars
    I have a Chinese friend who happens to be happening over the New Year, so I gave these a trial run today. They were SO good! I know she's going to love them. 🙂

    Reply
5 from 11 votes (1 rating without comment)

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me

Hey there! Welcome to SassyChopsticks.com!

I'm Yuan, a writer, world traveler, web developer, and photographer based in the U.S. My journey has taken me across multiple countries, from Malaysia to England, before I settled in Tennessee, where I've called home for nearly two decades.

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