Traditional Chinese Walnut Cookies (桃酥饼) – Crispy, Crumbly & Nostalgic

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There is something special about traditional Chinese cookies that brings back memories of the good old days. Do you remember seeing these cookies displayed in big glass jars at old-fashioned coffee shops and kopitiams? Sometimes, they are individually packed in little plastic wrappers and sold at traditional bakeries. Yes, I'm talking about 桃酥饼 (Chinese Walnut Cookies)!

Funny how our tastes change as we grow older. When I was around 24 or 25 years old and still working, I would never think of buying these cookies. Back then, I always thought they were a favorite among older people. They simply weren't the kind of treats I would choose!

Now that I'm in my 50s, I've grown to appreciate these old-fashioned cookies. Perhaps it's their lovely nutty aroma, buttery richness, or that crumbly texture that makes them so enjoyable. Sometimes, the things we once overlooked become the very things we love years later!

What I love about these homemade Chinese walnut cookies is that they are surprisingly easy to make with simple ingredients. Made with walnut flour, almond flour, butter and cooking oil, they have a lovely nutty flavor and a delicate, crumbly texture. Their signature cracked tops and black sesame topping give them that familiar traditional bakery appearance.

Although they are simple, these cookies are perfect for enjoying with a cup of hot kopi or tea. They also make a lovely homemade treat to share with family and friends.

If you love traditional Chinese bakery cookies, why not give this recipe a try? You might discover a new appreciation for this nostalgic favorite, just as I did!

Full written steps, tips, and exact measurements are below. Keep scrolling!



INGREDIENTS 

250g plain flour

30g almond flour

30g walnut flour

80g icing sugar, sifted

40g caster sugar

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 tablespoon custard powder

120g softened butter

60ml cooking oil

1 egg, beaten

Black sesame seeds, for topping


METHODS

Step 1: Grind the walnuts

Grind the walnuts into a fine powder using a food processor or grinder. You can also use ready-ground walnuts to save time.

Step 2: Combine the ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the plain flour, almond flour, walnut flour, icing sugar, caster sugar, baking soda, baking powder and custard powder. Mix well.

Add the softened butter, beaten egg and cooking oil. Mix until all the ingredients are incorporated and form a soft dough.

Avoid overmixing or kneading the dough too much, as this can affect the texture of the cookies.

Step 3: Shape the cookies

Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and place them on a baking tray lined with baking paper, leaving enough space between each cookie.

Gently flatten each ball with your palm. Keep the cookies reasonably thick rather than press them too thin.

Step 4: Make the indentation

Use a round-tipped modelling tool or your thumb to press a small indentation into the center of each cookie.

Sprinkle some black sesame seeds over the top.

Step 5: Bake the cookies

Preheat the oven to 170°C.

Bake the cookies for 15 minutes, then carefully flip them over and bake for another 5 minutes, making 20 minutes in total.

Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack. They will firm up as they cool down.

Enjoy your homemade Chinese walnut cookies with a cup of hot coffee or tea!

Tips for Making Chinese Walnut Cookies

1. Use finely ground walnuts

Grind the walnuts into a fine powder for a more even texture throughout the cookies. Avoid grinding them for too long, as the natural oils can cause them to turn into a paste.

2. Ready-ground walnuts are fine too

If you want to save time, you can use ready-ground walnuts. Make sure they are fresh and have a pleasant nutty aroma.

3. Do not overwork the dough

Mix the ingredients just until soft dough forms. Overworking the dough may develop too much gluten from the flour, resulting in cookies that are less tender. 

4. Keep the cookies evenly sized

Divide the dough into 8 equal portions so the cookies bake more evenly. These portions make fairly large, giant-style cookies. If you prefer smaller cookies, divide the dough into more portions and adjust the baking time accordingly.

5. Do not flatten the dough too much

Keep the cookies reasonably thick to maintain their shape and texture. Pressing a small indentation in the center also gives them a lovely traditional appearance.

6. Allow the cookies to cool completely

The cookies may still feel soft when they first come out of the oven. Let them cool completely before handling or storing them, so they have time to firm up.

7. Store them properly

Once completely cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Protect them from moisture to help maintain their texture. Their actual shelf life depends on the freshness of the ingredients and storage conditions. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ready-ground walnuts instead of grinding them myself? 

Yes! Ready-ground walnuts are a convenient alternative. Just make sure they are finely ground and fresh.

Why do Chinese walnut cookies have cracked tops?

The cracks develop as the dough expands during baking. The combination of the dough's consistency, leaving agents and baking conditions helps create the familiar cracked surface.

Why do my cookies feel soft when they first come out of the oven?

This is normal. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack, as they will firm up during cooling.

How should I store homemade Chinese walnut cookies?

Keep them in an airtight container after they have cooled completely. Store in a cool, dry place away from humidity to help preserve their crumbly texture.

Enjoy These Old-Fashioned Chinese Walnut Cookies!

These homemade 桃酥饼 bring together the lovely flavors of walnuts and almonds with the richness of butter and the familiar charm of traditional Chinese bakery cookies.

They are simple to make, yet so satisfying to enjoy. Sometimes, the best treats are not the fanciest ones but those that bring back fond memories and remind us of the simple pleasures in life.

I hope you enjoy making these Chinese walnut cookies in your own kitchen. Happy baking!

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