The 3-Ingredient Holiday Cookie I Make Every Year

Every holiday season, I find myself returning to this simple yet delightful recipe for walnut cookies. With just three ingredients, these cookies are not only incredibly easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress.

Ingredients:

• 300g (10.5 oz) walnut kernels
• 150g (3/4 cup) granulated sugar
• 60g (2 large) egg whites
• Zest of 1 organic orange (optional)
• Powdered sugar for coating

How To Make The 3-Ingredient Holiday Cookie

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Finely grind the walnuts in a food processor until they resemble a coarse flour. Be careful not to over-process, as this can release oils and make the mixture too wet.
3. In a large bowl, combine the ground walnuts, granulated sugar, egg whites, and orange zest (if using). Mix well with a fork or spoon until the ingredients start to come together.
4. Use your hands to knead the mixture briefly until it forms a cohesive dough.
5. Shape the dough into small balls, about a tablespoon each. You should get approximately 20 cookies.
6. Roll each ball in powdered sugar and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
7. Bake for about 15 minutes in the preheated oven. Be careful not to overbake – the cookies should remain soft and moist on the inside.
8. Allow to cool completely on the baking sheet before handling.

These walnut cookies are wonderfully versatile. You can enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee, serve them as an after-dinner treat, or even package them up as a thoughtful homemade gift. They’re perfect for those with gluten sensitivities, as they contain no flour or leavening agents.

For a twist on the recipe, you could experiment with different flavorings. A dash of vanilla extract or some lemon zest could work beautifully in place of the orange zest. If you’re feeling adventurous, a splash of your favorite liqueur could add an interesting depth of flavor.

What makes these cookies truly special is the quality of the walnuts. If possible, try to source locally grown walnuts for the best flavor. The difference in taste compared to commercially packaged nuts can be quite remarkable.

These simple yet elegant cookies have become a staple in my holiday baking routine. They’re quick to prepare, require minimal ingredients, and always receive rave reviews. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household too.