How to bake with walnuts

Walnuts are wonderful additions to a variety of dishes, enhancing anything from cakes (like this lemon cake with a tasty walnut crunch) to salads. Discover what you need to know about how to bake with walnuts, as well as some important tips, such as when to be careful with nuts. 

How to prepare walnuts before cooking 

Most nuts are relatively simple to separate from their shells, but walnuts are renowned for being a little tougher. The most effective way to shell a walnut is to use a nutcracker. If a nutcracker is unavailable, you can try cracking the nut with your hands. Hold the nut securely and exert pressure at the junction of the shell segments.

How to bake with walnuts

Using walnuts in baking can elevate the texture and flavour of your dishes. Whether as a cake topping or a delightful salad topper, walnuts bring versatility to starters, mains and desserts. Enjoy walnuts straight from the shell, or you can toast them for an intensified flavour and satisfying crunch. 

How to toast walnuts 

Walnuts can be toasted in various ways. Two popular methods include oven toasting or toasting in a pan on the stove.

In a pan, add a drizzle of oil. Once it’s hot, throw in walnuts and a pinch of salt if preferred. Heat gently over a medium flame, stirring and turning occasionally until the walnuts are browned and fragrant. This process typically takes around 3-4 minutes.

To oven-toast, preheat your oven to 180°C. Prepare a baking tray with parchment paper, then place your shelled walnuts on top. Add some oil and a pinch of salt if needed.

Pop them in the oven and toast until browned and fragrant, which generally takes 8-10 minutes. Once browned, remove from the oven and chop or use as desired.

When to exercise caution with walnuts 

As with any nut, there are a few risks to be aware of before preparing and serving them. Although the most common nut allergies include peanuts and tree nuts, some people are intolerant or allergic to walnuts. Those with allergies often give a heads-up well ahead of time, but it’s wise to double-check with your guest before hosting a dinner party. Another thing to bear in mind, specifically with walnuts and any shelled nut, is the importance of removing the entirety of the shell before eating.

When to pick walnuts 

There are two varieties of walnuts: English and black walnuts. The main difference between them is the shell; the black variety has a thicker shell and more intense flavour.

The best time to harvest walnuts in New Zealand is autumn. A walnut tree typically starts bearing fruit after approximately five years and yields more bountiful crops as it becomes established. The nuts will naturally fall from the tree, so harvesting them is as simple as picking the nuts up from the ground. You can consume walnuts straight from the tree, but their flavour may differ from those bought at the supermarket, as they haven’t undergone any refining processes. 

Walnut recipes 

Delicious kitchen creations can be made with walnuts. From easy recipes, like the previously mentioned walnut and goat cheese toast dish, to easy evening meals for friends, like a meaty walnut and rosemary crusted chicken, or a walnut-crusted pork tenderloin, there are plenty of great ideas to elevate a simple meal.