As I sifted through my pantry, the aroma of toasted walnuts took me back to the cozy kitchens of my childhood, where my grandmother would whip up a batch of Oreshki—traditional Ukrainian walnut cookies. These delightful little treats, filled with creamy dulce de leche, always brought smiles to our family gatherings, and their unique walnut shape makes them a showstopper on any dessert table. Not only are these cookies easy to prepare, making them a perfect last-minute addition to holiday festivities, but they also allow for creative fillings; think Nutella, fruit preserves, or even walnut cream. Ready to bring some nostalgia into your kitchen? Let’s dive into making these delectable Walnut Cookies!

Why are Oreshki so unforgettable?

Nostalgic flavors: These walnut cookies whisk you away to cherished childhood memories, making every bite a joy.
Customizable fillings: While dulce de leche is a classic, feel free to experiment with Nutella or fruit preserves for a twist.
Effortless preparation: Quick to make, they fit effortlessly into your busy schedule, perfect for any occasion.
A visual delight: Their unique walnut shape is sure to steal the spotlight and impress your guests.
Store away: Make them in advance and store for weeks, ensuring your dessert options are always stocked. For more unique cookie recipes, check out Fudgy Brownie Cookies and Chocolate Oat Cookies.

Walnut Cookies Ingredients

• For delightful Oreshki:

Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and flavor; make sure it’s room temperature for easy blending.
Margarine – Adds moisture for a tender texture; can be swapped for an equal amount of butter.
All-Purpose Flour – Forms the cookie base; gluten-free flour can work well for a gluten-free variant.
Sugar – Sweetens the dough; granulated sugar is best for the ideal texture.
Eggs – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; use large eggs for accurate measurements.
Mayonnaise – Retains moisture and adds a unique twist; can be replaced with equal parts sour cream if needed.
Baking Powder – Helps the cookies rise; ensure it’s fresh for optimal results.
Dulce de Leche – Creamy filling that elevates the flavors; feel free to explore substitutions like chocolate ganache or fruit preserves for your walnut cookies.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Walnut Cookies aka Oreshki

Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Stir well to ensure the sugar distributes evenly throughout the flour, creating a smooth dry mix. This will provide the base for your delicious Walnut Cookies aka Oreshki.

Step 2: Blend Wet Ingredients
Add 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and ½ cup of margarine to the dry mixture, blending until the texture is creamy and smooth. Incorporate 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, and 2 teaspoons of baking powder. Continue mixing until you form a soft, slightly sticky dough that holds together well.

Step 3: Form Cookies
Sprinkle a little flour on your hands and take small portions of the dough. Place each portion carefully into an oreshki mold, pressing firmly to shape them without overfilling. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the molds for 1.5 to 3 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown.

Step 4: Cool and Remove
Once the Walnut Cookies aka Oreshki are golden, carefully remove them from the molds. Allow them to cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. This cooling period is essential, as it helps firm up the cookie shells, making them easier to handle for filling.

Step 5: Fill with Dulce de Leche
Once cooled completely, take each cookie shell and fill it generously with dulce de leche. Use a piping bag or a small spoon for precise filling. Once filled, gently press two halves together to form the iconic walnut shape, allowing the dulce de leche to peek through for a beautiful presentation.

Step 6: Serve and Store
Arrange your delightful Walnut Cookies aka Oreshki on a decorative plate. They can be enjoyed immediately or stored in an airtight container. For optimal freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a month or freeze them for longer storage, maintaining their delicious flavor for future celebrations.

What to Serve with Delicious Oreshki?

Oreshki are perfect companions for enhancing your dessert experience, blending textures and flavors for delightful indulgence.

Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries brighten your plate and offer a refreshing balance to the rich sweetness of the cookies. Their tartness complements the creamy filling beautifully.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cool texture of vanilla ice cream contrasts wonderfully with the crunchy cookie shells, creating a delightful bite. Top with chocolate sauce for an added indulgence.
Espresso: The bold, rich flavors of a freshly brewed espresso provide a perfect contrast to the sweetness of Oreshki. Sipping this pairing awakens the senses and enriches the overall flavor experience.
Homemade Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a fluffy texture that contrasts with the crunchy cookies. A sprinkle of cocoa powder or cinnamon can enhance the flavor beautifully.
Chai Tea: The spices of chai tea create a warm and inviting pairing, enveloping your palate with comforting flavors. This duo works wonderfully for cozy gatherings or quiet afternoons.
Chocolate Ganache: Rich, smooth chocolate ganache is a luxurious addition that takes your Oreshki to gourmet heights. The contrasted textures create an irresistible treat everyone will adore.
Caramel Drizzle: A warm caramel drizzle over your Oreshki adds an extra layer of sweetness and a dash of indulgence. It’s a perfect complement, especially when paired with coffee or tea.
Lemon Zest: For a unique twist, sprinkle lemon zest over the cookies before serving. It offers a refreshing citrus note that brightens the overall flavor experience.

Walnut Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to personalize your Walnut Cookies with these delightful twists and substitutes, enhancing your baking adventure!

Nut-Free: Replace walnuts with pecans or almonds in the filling for a different flavor profile. Both options still provide that lovely crunch without compromising on taste.
Gluten-Free: Swap out all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring that everyone can enjoy these treasures without worry. Just be sure to check the blend for binding agents!
Dairy-Free: Try coconut oil and almond milk as substitutes for butter and margarine, creating a deliciously rich cookie that’s completely dairy-free. Your guests may not even notice the difference!
Chocolate Lovers: Mix cocoa powder into the dough for a chocolate version of these cookies. With a chocolate filling like ganache or Nutella, you’ll have a decadent treat perfect for celebrations.
Jam-Filled: Instead of dulce de leche, fill the cookies with your favorite fruit preserves or homemade jam. The sweetness of strawberries or tartness of raspberries will add a refreshing twist to your walnut cookies.
Flavor Infusion: Add spices like cinnamon or a hint of vanilla extract to the dough for an aromatic touch that lifts the overall flavor profile. Imagine these cookies wafting through your home, drawing everyone in!
Texture Variety: Fold in crushed cookies or graham crackers into the dough for added texture and surprise. The crunch amidst the crumbly shell creates a delightful bite every time.

For more sweet inspirations, you might love trying out these Fudgy Brownie Cookies or treat yourself to some delightful Cookies Cream Dessert Cups. Happy baking!

Make Ahead Options

These Walnut Cookies aka Oreshki are fantastic for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the ingredients, shape them into disks, and refrigerate. This helps develop the flavors while keeping the dough fresh. The cooked cookie shells can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature to maintain their crunchy texture. When you’re ready to serve, just fill them with dulce de leche or your chosen filling and press them together. Trust me, they’ll be just as delightful, making your holiday gatherings a breeze!

Storage Tips for Walnut Cookies aka Oreshki

Room Temperature: Store unfilled Walnut Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their freshness and crisp texture.

Fridge: For filled cookies, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 weeks. This ensures the dulce de leche stays creamy and delicious.

Freezer: Oreshki can be frozen for up to 2 months. Place unfilled cookies in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Reheating: If you prefer warm cookies, reheat filled Oreshki in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to maintain that delightful crunch.

Tips for the Best Walnut Cookies

Dough Consistency: Ensure the dough is slightly sticky for easy shaping. If it’s too sticky, chill it for a few minutes before molding.
Proper Molding: Use a dedicated oreshki mold to achieve the traditional walnut shape. This is crucial for both presentation and texture.
Don’t Overfill: Avoid overstuffing the molds with dough to prevent spillage while cooking. A little goes a long way in creating an even bake.
Alternative Fillings: Feel free to experiment with different fillings, such as Nutella or your favorite jam, for your walnut cookies, adding a personal twist.
Cooling Time: Allow the cookies to cool completely before filling them. This helps keep the shells firm and prevents them from breaking.

Oreshki (Walnut Cookies) Recipe FAQs

What type of walnuts are best for Oreshki?
For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using fresh, unsalted walnuts. Look for walnuts that are firm, with no dark spots or signs of rancidity. If you’re feeling adventurous, lightly toasting the walnuts will enhance their nuttiness, adding a delightful depth to your Oreshki.

How should I store leftover Oreshki?
To maintain their delightful texture, store unfilled Oreshki in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you’ve already filled them with dulce de leche, keep them in the fridge for up to 3 weeks to ensure that creamy filling stays perfect.

Can I freeze Oreshki? How?
Absolutely! You can freeze unfilled Oreshki for up to 2 months. Just make sure to place them in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply allow them to thaw at room temperature, then fill with dulce de leche before serving.

Why did my Oreshki fall apart?
If your Oreshki crumbled after baking, it might be due to the dough being too dry or insufficiently mixed. Make sure you achieve a slightly sticky consistency before forming them. If necessary, add a touch more mayonnaise or butter to help hold the dough together. Also, remember that allowing the cookie shells to cool completely before filling is crucial for maintaining their structure.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! You can easily make Oreshki gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative, such as almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Just keep in mind that the texture might vary slightly, but they will still taste delicious.

Are Oreshki safe for pets or those with certain allergies?
While Oreshki are simply delightful for humans to enjoy, they aren’t particularly suitable for pets, especially due to the sugar and potential nut allergies. If you’re preparing these for someone with nut allergies, consider using a nut-free filling instead and ensure no cross-contamination occurs in your kitchen.