These traditional Romanian Walnut Crescent Cookies (Cornulete cu Nuca) are soft, melt-in-your-mouth treats made with ground walnuts, butter, and a hint of vanilla and lemon zest. Perfectly crumbly and lightly dusted with powdered sugar, they pair beautifully with coffee, tea, or mulled wine.
Ingredients
- 100 g walnuts (finely ground)
- 100 g powdered sugar
- 250 g flour
- 200 g butter (softened)
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp vanilla essence
- Zest of 1 lemon
- A pinch of salt
- Extra powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
- Grind the walnuts into a fine powder using a food processor or blender.
Make the Dough
- In a food processor (or mixing bowl), combine ground walnuts, powdered sugar, softened butter, egg, lemon zest, vanilla essence, and salt.
- Mix until fully incorporated.
- Add flour all at once and mix briefly (no more than 2 minutes) to prevent the dough from becoming too hard.
Chill the Dough
- Wrap the dough in cling film and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Shape the Crescents
- Let the dough sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before shaping.
- Take small portions of dough and roll them into crescent shapes.
- Place on a parchment-lined baking tray.
Bake the Cookies
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Final Touch
- Allow cookies to cool completely.
- Generously dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
Romanian Walnut Crescent Cookies, known as Cornulete cu Nuca, are a beloved traditional treat, cherished for their delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich nutty flavor. These cookies have been passed down through generations, often baked for holidays, special occasions, or simply as a comforting homemade delight.
The Story Behind These Cookies
These crescent-shaped cookies hold a special place in many Romanian households. Traditionally, they are made in large batches, filling the home with a warm, nutty aroma. Their soft, crumbly texture pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee, tea, or even mulled wine, making them a favorite during the winter months. Not only are they delicious, but they also store exceptionally well in an airtight container, staying fresh for over a week.Pro Tips for Perfect Crescent Cookies
✔ Don’t overmix the dough – This prevents the gluten from developing, ensuring the cookies remain soft and tender. ✔ Use room temperature butter – Cold butter won’t blend well, and melted butter will make the dough too sticky. ✔ Chill the dough properly – This step is crucial for shaping the cookies easily and helping them hold their form while baking. ✔ Dust with powdered sugar after cooling – This prevents the sugar from melting into the cookies and keeps them looking beautifully snowy.Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I need a food processor to make this recipe? No, while a food processor speeds up the process, you can mix the ingredients by hand or use a hand mixer. Just ensure the walnuts are finely ground beforehand. 2. How do I prevent the cookies from breaking? These cookies are delicate, so handle them gently. Make sure they are completely cooled before transferring them to a storage container. 3. Can I make the dough in advance? Absolutely! Wrapped in cling film, the dough can be refrigerated for up to seven days, allowing for fresh-baked cookies anytime.Final Thoughts
Romanian Walnut Crescent Cookies are a true treat, combining nostalgia and flavor in every bite. Whether for Christmas, a cozy afternoon snack, or simply to enjoy a piece of tradition, these cookies are sure to impress. Try this recipe and let these delightful cookies fill your home with warmth and sweetness! 🌟🥜