How to Toast Walnuts

Look no further than these two foolproof methods if you’re wondering How to Toast Walnuts. It is so fast and simple to either cook them in a skillet or bake them in the oven. Whether plain or coated, these healthy nuts are a perfect, quick, and crunchy snack, and they add so much flavor to all your favorite recipes. 

Toasting Walnuts

Walnuts become buttery, golden, and ultra-crunchy after toasting them in the oven.

The high heat brings out the natural nutty aroma that adds a delightful flavor to salads, desserts, and side dish recipes.

Walnuts can definitely be eaten raw, but roasting them can really take their flavor game over the top!

Add them to a variety of recipes, like Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad, mix them into some banana bread or Banana Nut Muffins, or sprinkle them on Overnight Oats. They are also delicious in Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Taking the extra 10 minutes to pop them in the oven is definitely worth the time. (Just like when toasting pine nuts, roasting almonds, or making toasted pecans!)

Ingredients

The simple ingredients you need to make this toasted walnut recipe include:

• Walnuts. Raw walnuts are the only required ingredient for this recipe, and the rest are optional. Make sure not to purchase already roasted nuts. You can either toast whole nuts, walnut halves, or small pieces, depending on what you have on hand.
• Butter or Oil. Coat the walnuts in melted butter or olive oil before baking for a rich flavor.
• Salt. Sprinkle on a bit of sea salt to give the toasted walnuts more flavor.
• Seasonings. Get creative with other herbs and spices such as garlic salt, paprika, or Blackened Seasoning. Even Taco Seasoning would be amazing!

How to Toast Walnuts

The easy steps for making roasted walnuts are simple to follow:

Cover with Seasoning

Toss the nuts in any butter, oil, or seasoning ingredients you want to add before roasting. There are two different ways to roast walnuts: in the oven or on the stove. The best method depends on how many nuts you have.

Toasting Walnuts in the Oven

If you are making more than 1 cup of roasted walnuts at a time, the oven method is a must.

Line a large, lightly colored, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.

Place the walnuts in the pan,and spread them out in a single layer.

Toast them in the oven at 350°F for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown.

Oven toasting is perfect for bigger batches and whole walnuts.

Roasting Walnuts in a Pan

When toasting a small amount of walnuts, cooking them in a heavy skillet or frying pan is a faster and easier way to do it.

Preheat a medium or large, non-stick, dry skillet over medium-low or medium heat.

Place 1 cup or less of walnuts in the skillet in a single layer.

Toast for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally with a spatula or wooden spoon.

You’ll know the walnuts are done toasting when you begin to smell their nutty aroma. Stove-top toasting is the best way to get that nutty flavor when you only have a little time and your recipe calls for toasted nuts.

Meal Prep and Storage

• To Store: Keep roasted nuts sealed and in a cool, dry place for the best results. They will last for 1-2 weeks if stored at room temperature, or 3-4 months if refrigerated.
• To Freeze: Seal in a freezer-safe airtight container and freeze for up to a year.

Are walnuts good for you?

Walnuts are full of dietary fiber and healthy fats, like omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. They also offer ALA, which is a compound that is known to decrease inflammation and promote heart health. This makes them a filling and healthy snack option for almost everyone.

Are walnuts tree nuts?

Yes, walnuts are tree nuts. Other tree nuts include almonds, cashews, hazelnuts, and pistachios. While not all tree nuts are created equal, those with a walnut allergy oftentimes are also allergic to pecans.

How do I know if my walnuts have gone bad?

Fresh walnuts will emit a nutty aroma, whereas rancid walnuts give off a scent similar to paint thinner or rotten eggs.

Does toasting walnuts make them softer?

Roasted walnuts will be softer while warm, but will become crispier once they return to room temperature. While the walnuts are cooking, the fats melt down and cause the meat of the nut to tenderize. However, this process also draws out the extra moisture which results in a crunchier nut after it cools.

Expert Tips

• Buy raw. Do not purchase nuts that are already roasted or they will overcook.
• Add flavor. Elevate the taste of your walnuts with butter, salt, or a variety of seasonings.
• Go light. Stay away from dark baking sheets to avoid burning.
• Line it. Parchment paper makes cleanup easy and enhances the crispness!
• Use your sniffer. A nutty aroma indicates the nuts are done.
• Prep extra. Store roasted walnuts in the freezer so you always have some on hand.

More Walnut Recipes

Now that you have tasty, toasted walnuts, it is time to put them to work! Make these delicious and easy recipes.

Add some crunch to healthy salads, like Chopped Broccoli Salad and Arugula Fig Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette.

If you love baked goods, toss some into these Gluten Free + Paleo Carrot Cake Muffins or this Healthy Apple Bread Recipe.