Cinnamon Cookies with Walnut Pieces

Cinnamon Cookies with Walnut Pieces Recipe

Nothing says comfort like the scent of cinnamon cookies baking in the oven. These cinnamon cookies with walnut pieces are a delightful blend of warm spices and nutty crunch, perfect for cozying up on a chilly day. This simple yet delicious recipe combines the flavors of cinnamon and walnuts in a tender, buttery cookie. Perfect for sharing or enjoying alone with a warm drink, these cookies are a must-try for any cinnamon lover.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (plus extra for dusting)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup walnut pieces (chopped)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Cream the Butter and Sugars
   In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed.

2. Add the Egg and Vanilla
   Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. This mixture should be smooth and creamy.

3. Combine Dry Ingredients
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms.

4. Fold in the Walnuts
   Using a spatula, gently fold in the chopped walnut pieces until evenly distributed throughout the dough. The walnuts add a delightful crunch and complement the warm flavor of cinnamon.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

1. Refrigerate the Dough
   Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the cookies retain their shape while baking and enhances the flavor.

Step 3: Shape and Bake

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Shape the Cookies
   Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each cookie slightly with the back of a spoon or your fingers to ensure even baking.

3. Dust with Extra Cinnamon
   For an extra touch of cinnamon, lightly dust the tops of each cookie with a pinch of ground cinnamon.

4. Bake
   Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown. Be careful not to overbake, as these cookies should remain soft and tender in the center.

5. Cool the Cookies
   Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for the Perfect Cinnamon and Walnut Cookies

• Use Fresh Cinnamon: For the best flavor, make sure your cinnamon is fresh. Cinnamon loses its potency over time, so using fresh cinnamon will give these cookies a stronger, warmer aroma.

• Chop Walnuts to Desired Size: For a uniform crunch, chop the walnuts to a medium size. Smaller pieces mix easily into the dough, while slightly larger pieces add a pleasant bite.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough helps control spreading and makes it easier to handle. It also allows the flavors to meld together, giving the cookies a richer taste.

Serving Ideas

Cinnamon and walnut cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:

1. With a Warm Beverage: Serve these cookies with a cup of tea, coffee, or hot cocoa for a comforting treat.
2. Holiday Gift Idea: Pack these cookies in a decorative tin or gift box for a homemade gift during the holiday season.
3. Afternoon Snack: These cookies are perfect for a simple afternoon snack, providing a satisfying balance of sweetness and spice.

Variations

1. Add Chocolate Chips: For a touch of sweetness, mix in a handful of chocolate chips along with the walnuts.

2. Spiced Sugar Topping: Mix a pinch of cinnamon with a little sugar, and sprinkle it over the tops of the cookies before baking for a caramelized crust.

3. Cinnamon-Pecan Swap: Substitute pecans for walnuts to add a different nutty flavor that pairs well with cinnamon.

Storing Leftover Cookies

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you prefer, you can freeze the cookies for up to 2 months. Simply let them thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Additional Tips for Baking Cinnamon Walnut Cookies

For an even more pronounced nutty flavor, consider lightly toasting the walnuts before adding them to the dough. Simply spread the walnut pieces on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are fragrant. Be sure to let them cool before mixing them into the dough.

If you’re making these cookies for a festive occasion, consider adding a drizzle of icing. A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and a few drops of water adds a delicate sweetness, making the cookies look extra inviting and adding a slight crunch to each bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cinnamon cookies with walnut pieces bring together the warmth of cinnamon and the satisfying crunch of walnuts. Each bite has a delicate balance of spice and sweetness, making these cookies irresistible. They’re simple to make, filled with cozy flavors, and perfect for enjoying any time of day. Try this recipe for a delicious homemade treat that’s sure to become a favorite!