There’s a certain joy that comes from the simple act of baking, especially when you can fill your home with the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked cookies. Picture this: as I pulled a tray of Thick and Chewy Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies from the oven, the gooey chocolate melted together with the nutty crunch of walnuts, creating the ultimate treat that’s sure to make anyone’s day a little sweeter.
After a long week filled with fast food and takeout, I craved something homemade that would satisfy my sweet tooth without the fuss. These cookies came to the rescue, marrying classic flavors and comforting textures into one irresistible bite. Soft in the center and lightly crisp on the outside, they’re perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself!
Whether you’re looking to impress at a potluck or simply want to indulge in a cozy night in, this recipe is your ticket to cookie perfection. Ready to transform your kitchen into a haven of deliciousness? Let’s dive in!
Why are Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies irresistible?
Decadent, Comforting Experience: Each bite of these cookies will transport you to a world of pure bliss.
Thick Texture: The combination of cornstarch and thoughtful baking creates a wonderfully chewy cookie, ensuring they’re thick and satisfying.
Nutty Goodness: The walnuts add the perfect crunch, making every bite a delightful mix of textures.
Quick to Bake: In just about 30 minutes, you can whip up a batch, making them an ideal treat for last-minute gatherings.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether enjoyed as an after-school snack or a dessert at dinner, these cookies are guaranteed to please everyone.
Endless Variations: Easily modify the recipe by swapping nuts or adding different chocolates for a unique twist every time!
Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
• Butter – Adds richness and flavor; use cold butter to prevent excessive spreading.
• Brown Sugar – Provides moisture and a deeper flavor; dark brown sugar can be used for a more robust taste.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies and contributes to the desired texture.
• Eggs – Acts as a binder; use large eggs for consistency in your chocolate chip walnut cookies.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; opt for pure vanilla extract for the best results.
• All-Purpose Flour – The base of the cookie dough; measure accurately to avoid a dry texture.
• Cornstarch – Helps create thicker cookies by softening the flour proteins for a tender center.
• Baking Soda and Baking Powder – Provides leavening, ensuring a fluffy texture.
• Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
For the Mix-Ins
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Adds rich chocolaty goodness; feel free to substitute with dark or milk chocolate.
• Chopped Walnuts – Provides a delightful crunch; can be omitted for a nut-free version.
How to Make Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies
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Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies don’t stick and helps them bake evenly.
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Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the cold butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Then, add in the eggs and vanilla, mixing until fully combined and fluffy.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.
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Combine Mixtures: Gradually stir the dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined. Be gentle! Then, fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and chopped walnuts, ensuring an even distribution throughout the dough.
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Form Cookies: Use a large cookie scoop to evenly portion out the dough onto your prepared baking sheets. Make sure to leave some space in between each mound of dough to allow for spreading while baking.
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Bake: Place the trays in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. You want the edges to be set while the centers remain slightly underbaked for that perfect chewy texture.
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Cool: Once baked, carefully remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing all the delicious flavors to meld together.
Optional: Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt before serving for an extra burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies Variations
Feel free to personalize this recipe and make it your own，exploring flavors and textures that tantalize your taste buds.
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Nut Alternatives: Swap walnuts for pecans or hazelnuts for different flavor profiles that still offer delightful crunch.
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Chocolate Twist: Add white chocolate chips or butterscotch chips alongside the chocolate for a sweet, creamy contrast in each bite.
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Oatmeal Addition: Mix in 1 cup of rolled oats for a heartier cookie, giving them a chewy texture and delightful nuttiness.
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Coconut Flakes: Fold in unsweetened shredded coconut for a tropical twist that enhances both flavor and texture.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of cayenne pepper for a warm, spicy note that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
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Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a certified gluten-free flour blend for a delicious, allergy-friendly treat.
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Brownie Style: Incorporate cocoa powder into the dry ingredients for a rich, chocolatey cookie reminiscent of brownies.
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Fruit Infusion: Toss in some dried cranberries or cherries to add a touch of tartness that harmonizes beautifully with the sweetness.
Make Ahead Options
These Thick and Chewy Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy fresh cookies anytime! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and then wrapping the dough tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating. If you’ve mixed your dough ahead, simply scoop and place it on a baking sheet when you’re ready to bake. For even greater convenience, you can freeze the formed cookie dough balls for up to 3 months—just pop them directly on the baking sheet from the freezer when you’re ready to bake, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have delicious, freshly baked chocolate chip walnut cookies ready for any occasion without the fuss!
Expert Tips for Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies
• Cold Ingredients Matter: Using cold butter is key for thicker cookies—ensure it’s straight from the fridge to minimize spreading during baking.
• Avoid Overmixing: Gently combine the wet and dry ingredients to keep your chocolate chip walnut cookies tender and chewy. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies!
• Baking Time Check: Start checking your cookies around the 8-minute mark; the centers should look underbaked. They’ll continue cooking as they cool, yielding the perfect texture.
• Chill for Flavor: For extra depth in flavor, consider chilling your dough for 30 minutes before baking. It’s not necessary but could enhance your cookie experience.
• Storage Tips: For freshness, store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. They can also be frozen for longer enjoyment!
What to Serve with Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies?
Cozy up with these indulgent cookies that pair beautifully with a variety of delightful accompaniments.
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Cold Glass of Milk: The classic choice! Milk’s creaminess perfectly balances the rich chocolate and nutty flavors for a nostalgic treat.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a luscious creaminess, creating a delightful contrast to the warm, gooey cookies.
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Hot Chocolate: For chocolate lovers, pairing these cookies with a mug of rich hot chocolate makes for a heavenly combination, amplifying the chocolate experience.
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Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavors of coffee enhance the sweetness of the cookies. This pairing is perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up or cozy evenings.
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Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad brings in a burst of brightness and acidity, cutting through the richness of the cookies, making each bite refreshing.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over the cookies adds a sweet, gooey dimension that elevates your cookie-licious experience even further!
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Nutty Tea: Serving these cookies with a nut-infused tea, like chai, complements the walnut crunch and overall flavor beautifully, making for a comforting snack.
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Candied Ginger: For those who love a little spice, candied ginger offers a zesty contrast that will awaken your taste buds while savoring these sweet treats.
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their delightful softness and chewy texture.
Fridge: If you’d like to keep them slightly longer, store the cookies in the fridge for up to 5 days, but be aware they may dry out a bit.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 30 days while keeping their lovely chocolate chip walnut flavor intact.
Reheating: To enjoy that freshly-baked taste, warm the cookies in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes before serving.
Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to select ripe ingredients for my Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose fresh ingredients. Select eggs that are large and free from cracks. Butter should be cold and unsalted for optimal flavor. When it comes to walnuts, make sure they are unsalted and crunchy—avoid any with dark spots for freshness.
How should I store my cookies and how long do they last?
You can store your Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For slightly longer freshness, keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days, although they might lose some softness. I often place a slice of bread in the container to help maintain moisture!
Can I freeze these cookies for later enjoyment?
Absolutely! To freeze your cookies, first let them cool completely. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours. Once they are firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 30 days. To enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes!
What should I do if my cookie dough seems too sticky or too dry?
Very good question! If your dough is too sticky, try adding a tablespoon of flour gradually until you reach the desired consistency. Conversely, if the dough is too dry, mix in a teaspoon of milk or water to help bind it together. Be sure to mix gently to keep the cookies tender!
Are there any dietary considerations to keep in mind for these cookies?
Indeed! If you or someone you’re baking for has nut allergies, simply omit the walnuts for a nut-free version. You can also replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free alternative. Always double-check ingredient labels when baking for others to ensure safety!
Can I use different types of chocolate in this recipe?
Yes! I often experiment with dark or milk chocolate chips to change the flavor profile of my cookies. You could also mix white chocolate chips in for a delicious contrast! The more variations, the merrier!
Decadent Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies You’ll Crave Daily
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the cold butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add in the eggs and vanilla, mixing until fluffy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually stir the dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips and chopped walnuts.
- Use a large cookie scoop to portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each mound.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges are set but the centers are slightly underbaked.
- Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
