Walnut Shortbread Crescent Cookies​

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight in the buttery goodness of these Walnut Shortbread Crescent Cookies, perfect for any occasion.

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-03T17:06:27.292Z

These Walnut Shortbread Crescent Cookies are a family favorite, bringing warmth and joy to every gathering. The blend of rich butter and nutty walnuts creates a delectable treat that melts in your mouth.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Rich buttery flavor with a nutty crunch
  • Perfectly crumbly texture that melts in your mouth
  • Ideal for holiday gatherings or afternoon tea

The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion

Walnut Shortbread Crescent Cookies are an exceptional addition to any dessert table. Their delicate crescent shape and irresistible buttery flavor make them a standout treat for both casual gatherings and festive celebrations. Whether you’re hosting a tea party, a holiday gathering, or simply indulging yourself at home, these cookies will impress your guests and leave them asking for the recipe.

Moreover, their charming appearance and delightful taste make them a wonderful gift when packaged in a decorative box. They convey thoughtfulness, perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or as a surprise for a loved one. Simply add a handwritten note, and you have a personalized gift that is sure to warm hearts.

Why Walnuts?

Walnuts bring a unique flavor and texture to these cookies. Their rich, nutty profile complements the buttery shortbread, creating a harmonious balance in every bite. Plus, walnuts are packed with healthy fats, antioxidants, and vitamins, making them a nutritious addition to your treats.

Incorporating walnuts into your baking not only enhances the flavor but also adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender crumb of the cookie. This makes each bite a delightful experience, ensuring that your Walnut Shortbread Crescent Cookies are anything but ordinary.

Tips for Perfect Cookies

For the best results, make sure your butter is properly softened before mixing. This will ensure a creamy blend with the powdered sugar, resulting in a light and fluffy dough. To soften butter quickly, cut it into small pieces and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes.

When shaping the cookies into crescents, be gentle to maintain the delicate texture. If you’re finding the dough a bit sticky, lightly flour your hands to help with shaping. Additionally, avoid overbaking; remove the cookies from the oven as soon as the edges turn lightly golden to keep them tender and melt-in-your-mouth.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup finely chopped walnuts
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

For Dusting

  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Ingredients

Gradually add the flour and salt to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chopped walnuts.

Shape the Cookies

Take small portions of dough and roll them into crescent shapes. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Dust with Sugar

Allow the cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet, then dust with a mixture of powdered sugar and cinnamon before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Walnut Shortbread Crescent Cookies with a cup of tea or coffee!

Storage and Freshness

To keep your Walnut Shortbread Crescent Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week, maintaining their flavor and texture. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them, where they can last for up to two weeks.

For longer storage, these cookies freeze beautifully. Simply place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the oven for a fresh-baked taste.

Serving Suggestions

Walnut Shortbread Crescent Cookies pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages. They are delightful alongside a cup of tea or coffee, providing a perfect balance of flavors. For a festive touch, serve them with a glass of mulled wine or hot cocoa during the colder months.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try pairing them with a light cheese platter. The rich, buttery cookies complement the creaminess of cheeses like brie or goat cheese, creating a sophisticated tasting experience. Add some fresh fruit or preserves for an added burst of flavor.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?

Yes, you can substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different flavor.

→ How should I store these cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw and bake when you're ready.

→ What can I serve these cookies with?

These cookies pair wonderfully with tea, coffee, or hot chocolate.

Walnut Shortbread Crescent Cookies​

Delight in the buttery goodness of these Walnut Shortbread Crescent Cookies, perfect for any occasion.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration15 minutes
Overall Time35 minutes

Created by: Emily

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 24 cookies

What You'll Need

For the Cookies

  1. 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  2. 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  3. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  4. 2 cups all-purpose flour
  5. 1 cup finely chopped walnuts
  6. 1/4 teaspoon salt

For Dusting

  1. 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  2. 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 02

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 03

Gradually add the flour and salt to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chopped walnuts.

Step 04

Take small portions of dough and roll them into crescent shapes. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 05

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Step 06

Allow the cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet, then dust with a mixture of powdered sugar and cinnamon before serving.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 150 kcal
  • Total Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 5g
  • Protein: 2g