Walnut Biscuits

Here is a classic Italian recipe for making walnut biscuits.

Ingredients

• 250 g of type 00 flour
• 100 g of chopped walnuts
• 100 g of granulated sugar
• 1 large egg (and one yolk for brushing)
• 100 g of butter at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon of baking powder
• 1 sachet of vanillin or 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

Preparation

1. In a large bowl, sift the flour with the baking powder and add a pinch of salt.
2. Incorporate the chopped butter and work the mixture with your fingertips until it becomes a sandy consistency.
3. Add the sugar and chopped walnuts until evenly mixed.
4. Add the egg and vanillin (or vanilla) and knead until the mixture is uniform.
5. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
6. Preheat the oven to 180 °C.
7. Take the dough out of the refrigerator and roll it out with a rolling pin on a lightly floured surface until it is about 1-1.5 cm thick.
8. Cut out the biscuits with a cookie cutter or a sharp knife into the desired shape.
9. Transfer the biscuits onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush the surface with an egg yolk.
10. Bake the biscuits for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
11. Remove the biscuits from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

Curiosity

Walnut biscuits are a delicious delicacy and, according to some local Italian traditions, they were considered a good luck dessert, especially during end-of-year holidays, symbolizing prosperity and health. Walnuts have long been associated with beliefs related to fortune and wellbeing.

For an even more gourmet touch, you can add a pinch of cinnamon to the dough or dip the cooled biscuits halfway into melted dark chocolate. Serve them with a good passito or vin santo for a traditional Italian pairing. Happy baking and enjoy your meal!