Savory Walnut-Blue Cheese Shortbread Bites
Indulge in these delightful Savory Walnut-Blue Cheese Shortbread Bites, a unique twist on traditional shortbread. Rich California walnuts and tangy Danish blue cheese combine to create a sophisticated flavor profile, making these bites perfect for any occasion. Serve them alongside sliced pear and additional blue cheese for a gourmet treat, or use them as a crust for a sweet apple tart. These versatile bites also pair beautifully with candied walnut pieces pressed into their tops, and they complement a variety of dishes, including salads, soups, or as a delightful accompaniment to your favorite wine. Each bite is both savory and satisfying, leaving you and your guests wanting more.
N/A
Servings
50
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
flour
3/4 cup (all-purpose, sifted)
cornstarch
1/2 cup (sifted)
icing sugar
1/4 cup (sifted)
salt
1/2 teaspoon (fine sea salt)
ground California walnut
1/2 cup (finely ground)
unsalted butter
1/2 cup (softened)
Danish blue cheese
1/4 cup (crumbled)
freshly grated lemon zest
1/2 teaspoon (from a fresh lemon)
walnut halves
24 (for topping)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, icing sugar, salt, and ground California walnuts until well combined.
3
Add the softened unsalted butter, Danish blue cheese, and freshly grated lemon zest to the flour mixture. Using your hands, knead the mixture until it forms a soft, cohesive dough.
4
With a small scoop, portion the dough into half-spheres and then press the walnut halves firmly into the top of each cookie.
5
Arrange the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one.
6
Bake the cookies for 27-30 minutes, or until they are firm to the touch and lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack before serving.
Nutrition Information
3.5g
Fat
3.75g
Carbs
0.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Walnut-Blue Cheese Shortbread Bites?
These are unique savory shortbread cookies featuring California walnuts and Danish blue cheese for a sophisticated flavor.
What type of cheese is used in this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for crumbled Danish blue cheese.
How many calories are in each shortbread bite?
Each bite contains approximately 50 calories.
What kind of walnuts should I use for the dough?
You should use finely ground California walnuts for the dough mixture.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
The oven should be preheated to 275°F (135°C).
How long do these savory bites need to bake?
They should bake for 27 to 30 minutes until firm and lightly golden.
Can I use this recipe as a base for other dishes?
Yes, these bites can be used as a savory crust for a sweet apple tart.
What are some serving suggestions for these bites?
Serve them with sliced pear and additional blue cheese, or alongside salads and soups.
How much fat is in one serving?
Each bite contains 3.5g of fat.
What type of flour is required?
The recipe uses 3/4 cup of sifted all-purpose flour.
Do I need to sift the dry ingredients?
Yes, the flour, cornstarch, and icing sugar should all be sifted before use.
Is there any sugar in this savory recipe?
Yes, the recipe includes 1/4 cup of sifted icing sugar.
What kind of salt is best for this recipe?
Fine sea salt is recommended for the best flavor.
What citrus element is included in the dough?
The dough includes 1/2 teaspoon of freshly grated lemon zest.
How do you shape the cookies?
Use a small scoop to portion the dough into half-spheres.
Should I grease the baking sheet?
No, you should line the baking sheet with parchment paper instead.
What is the carbohydrate count per bite?
Each shortbread bite contains 3.75g of carbohydrates.
How much protein is in each cookie?
There is 0.5g of protein in each bite.
Can these bites be paired with beverages?
Yes, they pair beautifully with a variety of wines.
What is the topping for each shortbread bite?
A walnut half is pressed firmly into the top of each cookie before baking.
What is the purpose of cornstarch in this recipe?
1/2 cup of sifted cornstarch helps give the shortbread its delicate texture.
Should the butter be cold or softened?
The recipe requires 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter.
How do I know when the bites are finished baking?
They are done when they are firm to the touch and have a lightly golden color.
Where should the bites cool after baking?
Remove them from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
How many ingredients are needed in total?
There are 9 ingredients required for this recipe.
Can I add extra sweetness to the topping?
Yes, you can press candied walnut pieces into the tops for a different flavor profile.
What is the texture of these bites?
They are firm, crumbly, and satisfying, typical of a high-quality shortbread.
Are these suitable for a gourmet party?
Absolutely, their sophisticated flavor makes them perfect for gourmet appetizers.
Is the lemon zest from a fresh lemon?
Yes, the recipe specifies using zest from a fresh lemon.
Can I serve these with soup?
Yes, they make a delightful and savory accompaniment to various soups.