Hungarian Christmas Walnut Cookies
Hungarian Christmas Walnut Cookies are a treasured holiday treat, known for their tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich walnut flavor. Often baked during Advent and shared with family and friends, these cookies bring together simple ingredients and old-world charm. Finely ground walnuts give the dough a delicate crumb, while a light dusting of powdered sugar adds festive sweetness.
These cookies are perfect for Christmas cookie trays, gift boxes, or enjoying with a warm cup of tea on a winter afternoon.
Why You’ll Love These Cookies
- Soft, delicate, and buttery texture
- Rich walnut flavor without being overly sweet
- Traditional European Christmas recipe
- Perfect for gifting and holiday cookie platters
- Stores well and improves in flavor over time
Ingredients
- 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup (100 g) finely ground walnuts
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
- Pinch of salt
For coating:
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or wooden spoon
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
Prep Time
- Prep: 20 minutes
- Chill: 30 minutes
- Bake: 12–15 minutes
- Total Time: ~1 hour
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Dough
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth and light. Add egg yolks and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients
Stir in the ground walnuts, flour, and salt. Mix until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to make it easier to shape.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Roll small portions of dough into crescent shapes, balls, or logs, depending on preference. Place cookies about 1½ inches apart on the baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until cookies are set but still pale. These cookies should not brown.
Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Step 5: Coat with Sugar
While still slightly warm, gently roll or dust the cookies with powdered sugar. Allow to cool completely, then dust again before serving for a snowy holiday finish.
Tips for Perfect Walnut Cookies
- Use finely ground walnuts for a delicate texture
- Do not overbake—cookies should remain light in color
- Chill the dough for easy shaping
- Dust with powdered sugar twice for the best appearance
- Store in layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking
Variations
- Vanilla Sugar Cookies: Add vanilla sugar to the powdered sugar coating
- Rum-Flavored: Add 1 tablespoon rum or rum extract to the dough
- Chocolate-Dipped: Dip one end in melted chocolate after cooling
- Spiced: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with tea, coffee, or mulled wine
- Add to a traditional Christmas cookie tray
- Package in decorative tins for holiday gifts
- Pair with other European cookies like linzer or spritz cookies
Storage
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks
- Flavor improves after a few days
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months
A Timeless Hungarian Holiday Tradition
Hungarian Christmas Walnut Cookies are a beautiful example of traditional holiday baking—simple, elegant, and full of heart. Their tender crumb and nutty richness make them a beloved part of Christmas celebrations, passed down through generations. Whether you’re honoring your heritage or discovering Hungarian baking for the first time, these cookies are sure to become a festive favorite.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 12–15 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour
Yield: 30–36 cookies