Persian Walnut Bliss Cookies
Indulge in the delectable taste of Persian Walnut Bliss Cookies, a cherished treat that embodies the essence of traditional Iranian flavors. These cookies are rich in nutty goodness, with a delightful blend of egg yolks and confectioners' sugar creating a tender texture that's simply irresistible. With their elegant presentation topped with vibrant ground pistachios, these cookies are perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying with a cup of tea. This easy recipe, adapted from the renowned Iranian cook Najmieh Batmanglij's book 'New Food of Life,' will bring a touch of Middle Eastern flair to your dessert table.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Egg yolks
5 (Separate the yolks from the whites.)
Confectioners' sugar
3/4 cup (Sift for a smoother mixture.)
Vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon (Use pure vanilla extract for best flavor.)
Chopped walnuts
2 cups (Chop walnuts into small pieces.)
Ground pistachios
2 tablespoons (For decoration, grind until powdery.)
Instructions
1
In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks until they become creamy and pale in color.
2
Gradually add the confectioners' sugar, vanilla extract, and chopped walnuts into the egg yolks. Mix thoroughly using a wooden spoon for about 3-4 minutes until well combined and smooth.
3
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and grease a cookie sheet lightly to prevent sticking.
4
Using a teaspoon, drop rounded mounds of the cookie batter onto the prepared sheet, making sure to leave approximately 2.5 inches of space between each cookie.
5
Sprinkle the ground pistachios generously on top of each cookie for an extra touch of color and flavor.
6
Bake the cookies in the center of the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden.
7
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8
Arrange the cooled cookies on a beautiful serving dish, and delight in the Persian flavors with your loved ones. Enjoy the sweet moment - Nush-e Jan!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Persian Walnut Bliss Cookies?
Persian Walnut Bliss Cookies, or Nan-e Gerdui, are a traditional Iranian treat characterized by their rich nutty flavor and tender texture made primarily from egg yolks and walnuts.
What is the primary source of this recipe?
This recipe is adapted from the renowned Iranian cook Najmieh Batmanglij's book titled 'New Food of Life'.
How many egg yolks are required for this recipe?
The recipe requires 5 egg yolks, which should be separated from the whites before starting.
What type of sugar is used in Persian Walnut Bliss Cookies?
You should use 3/4 cup of confectioners' sugar, which should be sifted for a smoother mixture.
How many walnuts are needed?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of chopped walnuts, which provide the bulk of the cookie's structure and flavor.
How long should I whisk the egg yolks?
Whisk the egg yolks until they become creamy and pale in color before adding other ingredients.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
The oven should be preheated to 300°F (150°C).
How long do the cookies need to bake?
Bake the cookies in the center of the oven for 15 to 20 minutes.
How do I know when the cookies are finished baking?
The cookies are ready when the edges turn lightly golden.
What is used to garnish the cookies?
The cookies are topped with approximately 2 tablespoons of ground pistachios for added color and flavor.
How much space should be left between the cookie mounds on the sheet?
Leave approximately 2.5 inches of space between each cookie to allow for spreading.
What kind of vanilla extract should I use?
It is recommended to use 1/4 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract for the best flavor profile.
How long should I mix the batter once the sugar and walnuts are added?
Mix the ingredients thoroughly using a wooden spoon for about 3-4 minutes until smooth.
What is the best way to prepare the walnuts?
Walnuts should be chopped into small pieces to ensure they incorporate well into the egg yolk mixture.
Should the cookie sheet be greased?
Yes, grease the cookie sheet lightly to prevent the cookies from sticking.
What does 'Nush-e Jan' mean?
'Nush-e Jan' is a Persian phrase similar to 'bon appétit,' essentially wishing enjoyment of the meal.
Are these cookies suitable for tea time?
Yes, they are described as perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or sharing at gatherings.
How many total ingredients are in this recipe?
The recipe consists of 5 main ingredients: egg yolks, confectioners' sugar, vanilla extract, chopped walnuts, and ground pistachios.
What is the texture of these cookies?
They have a tender, delicate texture that is rich in nutty goodness.
How should the cookies be cooled?
Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
What tool is recommended for dropping the batter onto the sheet?
A simple teaspoon is used to drop rounded mounds of the cookie batter onto the prepared sheet.
Can I use the egg whites for this recipe?
No, this recipe specifically calls only for the egg yolks. You may save the whites for another use.
What is the preparation for the pistachios?
The pistachios should be ground until they are powdery for decoration.
Where in the oven should the cookies be baked?
The cookies should be baked in the center of the preheated oven for even heat distribution.
What is the difficulty level of this recipe?
This is considered an easy recipe, making it accessible for home cooks.
Is this a traditional Persian recipe?
Yes, it is a cherished treat that embodies traditional Iranian flavors and Middle Eastern dessert culture.
Why do I need to sift the confectioners' sugar?
Sifting the sugar ensures a smoother mixture and prevents lumps in the cookie batter.
How should I serve the cookies?
Once cooled completely, arrange them on a beautiful serving dish to highlight their elegant presentation.
What is the main flavor profile of these cookies?
The flavor is dominated by rich walnuts, sweetness from the sugar, and a hint of vanilla and pistachio.
Are these cookies considered 'drop' cookies?
Yes, they are categorized as drop cookies because the batter is dropped by teaspoon onto the baking sheet.