When the air turns brisk and the days become shorter, it is obvious that the holidays are here. Whichever holidays you choose to celebrate, you’re likely using this time to gather with family, friends, and loved ones to celebrate the season and create lasting memories. As you get ready for your annual brunch, we are happy to help by providing a menu of recipes that not only fill your guests with delight but also keep them asking for more.
Walnuts in Wintertime
You can create warm, delectable meals simply by adding walnuts. Take your holiday cookies, salads, and more, to the next level by adding a crunchy texture or blend walnuts into a creamy texture ideal for dips, soups, and spreads. Whether you are making sweet or savory dishes, walnuts pair well with many fresh winter fruits and vegetables and indulgent ingredients like cheese, chocolate, and bread.
Here are some sweet and savory options that can satisfy every appetite and help you provide a well-rounded, festive holiday menu that everyone is sure to remember.
Savory
In this delectable recipe, creamy burrata, crunchy walnuts, toasty bread, and fresh fruit combine to create the perfect bite of refreshing indulgence. The best part? These Burrata Toasts with Caramelized Walnuts and Mint-Pomegranate Pesto have minimal preparation and cooking time, with a total of only 30 minutes!
These Walnut Date Phyllo Cups with Blue Cheese and Candied Bacon offer a perfect savory and sweet combination for your holiday brunch using less than 10 ingredients. The salty blue cheese, nuttiness from the walnut, and sweetness from the dates meld together for a balanced and delicious bite.
Our California Walnut “Chorizo” Frittata is a 5-star recipe for a reason. It’s a filling, meatless option that is sure to impress your guests! Leftover chorizo? Use it in one of these scrumptious recipes!
Sweet
This mostly hands-off recipe is a classic with a festive twist: a nutty date filling. Make the dough for these California Walnut Cinnamon Rolls first thing in the morning, and let it rise as you are preparing for your brunch!
What is brunch without French toast? Try our Overnight Walnut French Toast with Cranberry Walnut Ginger Compote, a twist on a classic staple that is both delicious and easy! All you need to do is prepare it the night before and pop it in the oven the next morning. This recipe has been featured on Hallmark Channel’s Home & Family.
This straightforward Walnutty Egg Nog Cranberry Bread recipe requires less than an hour to complete. It is studded with lightly toasted walnuts and topped with a delicious eggnog glaze. This dish provides both sweet and nutty flavors, and it is the perfect option for holiday entertaining or as a special homemade gift!
Do you have leftover nuts from any of these recipes? If so, try making one of our seasoned walnut recipes to leave out for your guests throughout the day as a nutritious snack! Another way to make the most of the versatility of walnuts is to use them on a grazing board, which doubles as a snack and a beautiful centerpiece for a holiday table!
