There’s an unmistakable thrill that comes from the moment a batch of cookies is pulled from the oven, the aroma swirling through the house like a warm embrace. As the savory scent of bourbon mingles with rich chocolate and buttery walnuts, memories flood in—baking days with friends, cozy evenings by the fireplace, and all the laughter shared over delightful treats.
These Bourbon Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies are not just any dessert; they’re a heartfelt invitation to reconnect with the simple joys of homemade goodness. Perfectly chewy with a hint of cinnamon warmth, each bite is a delightful dance between sweet and salty, thanks to a sprinkle of flaky sea salt that elevates the flavor profile beautifully.
Whether you’re looking for a way to impress guests, add a special touch to your family gatherings, or simply indulge in a moment of self-care, these cookies are the answer. Ready to whip up something truly memorable? Let’s get started on creating cookie magic together!
Why are Bourbon Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies amazing?
Irresistible flavor: The pairing of rich bourbon, decadent chocolate, and crunchy walnuts creates a cookie experience that is truly unforgettable.
Heavenly aroma: As these cookies bake, your kitchen fills with a comforting scent that will have everyone eagerly waiting for a warm treat.
Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
Perfect texture: Each cookie has a balance of chewiness and crisp edges, making for that ideal bite.
Versatile treat: These cookies are perfect for any occasion—whether it be a cozy night in, a holiday gathering, or a sweet way to say “thank you.”
Get ready to elevate your baking game with a classic recipe that brings smiles and satisfaction in every bite!
Bourbon Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- 1 ½ cup all-purpose flour – A must for the perfect chewy texture in your Bourbon Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – This extra bit helps to bind the mixture, enhancing the dough’s structure.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda – A leavening agent that ensures your cookies rise beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds a warm spice that complements the chocolate and walnuts perfectly.
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt – Elevates the flavors and balances out the sweetness of the cookie dough.
- ½ cup unsalted butter – Provides richness and moisture; use unsalted to control the saltiness.
- ½ cup brown sugar – Ensures a chewy texture and adds a hint of caramel flavor.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar – Helps with the cookies’ spread and contributes a light sweetness.
- 1 egg – Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture to the dough.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste – Infuses a deep vanilla flavor; feel free to substitute with pure vanilla extract.
- 1 teaspoon bourbon whiskey – Adds a unique depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate and nuts.
For the Chocolate and Nuts
- 1 cup dark, semi-sweet, or bittersweet chocolate chips – Choose your favorite for rich and melty pockets in each cookie.
- ½ cup dark, semi-sweet, or bittersweet chocolate bar – Chopped for added texture and bursts of chocolate goodness.
- 1 cup walnut pieces – Brings a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the bourbon beautifully.
For Finishing Touches
- Flaky sea salt (optional) – Sprinkling this on top enhances the sweet and salty balance for an unforgettable treat.
How to Make Bourbon Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your cookie sheet(s) with parchment paper to ensure the cookies bake evenly and won’t stick.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon baking soda, ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon kosher salt. This dry mixture will add structure and flavor to your Bourbon Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies.
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Cream Butter and Sugars: In another bowl, vigorously stir together ½ cup unsalted butter, ½ cup brown sugar, ¼ cup granulated sugar, 1 egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste, and 1 teaspoon bourbon whiskey until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about one minute.
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Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the dry flour mixture to the butter and sugar mixture, stirring gently until a uniform dough forms. Then, fold in your 1 cup of chocolate chips and 1 cup of walnut pieces for that luxurious feel.
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Scoop the Dough: Use a cookie scoop to portion the dough onto the lined cookie sheet(s), making sure to leave at least two inches between each scoop. This space will allow your cookies to spread nicely while baking.
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Bake to Perfection: Pop your cookies into the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and golden brown, keeping an eye on them for that perfect bake.
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Cool and Serve: Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the pan(s) for about 5-10 minutes. If desired, sprinkle with flaky sea salt before serving warm for an added burst of flavor.
Optional: Enjoy these cookies with a glass of cold milk for the ultimate treat experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Bourbon Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their softness and flavor.
Fridge: For longer freshness, store the cookies in the refrigerator for up to a week. Allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying.
Freezer: Freeze uncooked dough balls by placing them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy cookies warm, heat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through. Enjoy your delightful Bourbon Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies!
Make Ahead Options
These Bourbon Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and storing the dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only allows the flavors to deepen but also keeps the dough fresh. Alternatively, you can scoop the dough into individual portions and freeze them for up to 3 months—just remember to thaw in the fridge overnight before baking. When you’re ready to indulge, simply bake the cookies as directed, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time if they’re coming straight from the freezer. Enjoy delicious, homemade cookies with minimal effort!
Bourbon Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies Variations
Feel free to experiment and make this recipe your own with these delightful twists and substitutions.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a gluten-free version that remains deliciously chewy.
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Nut-Free: Simply omit the walnuts and add ½ cup more chocolate chips or replace with sunflower seeds for a satisfying crunch without allergens.
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Bourbon Alternative: Swap bourbon for vanilla extract or rum, giving your cookies a different yet delightful flavor profile.
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Add a Spice Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the dough for a surprising heat that beautifully contrasts the sweetness.
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Fruity Twist: Add in ½ cup of dried cherries or cranberries to the dough for a tart contrast against the rich chocolate and sweet bourbon.
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Chocolate Variety: Experiment with flavored chocolate chips, like mint or orange zest chocolate, creating a unique twist that tantalizes the taste buds.
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Healthy Upgrade: Replace half of the unsalted butter with unsweetened applesauce to cut down on calories while keeping the cookies moist and flavorful.
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Stuffed Cookies: For an indulgent surprise, create a dough ball around a piece of chocolate or a spoonful of nut butter for melted centers that are pure bliss.
Expert Tips for Bourbon Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies
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Measure Accurately: Ensure precise measurements of flour and sugars to maintain the right cookie texture. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies!
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Use butter and egg at room temperature for a smooth dough. This helps the flavors meld beautifully, enhancing your Bourbon Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies.
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Don’t Overmix: After adding the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stir just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the desired chewiness.
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Cool on Pan: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This ensures they set properly and reduces breakage.
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Customize Add-ins: Feel free to swap walnuts for pecans or even add some coconut flakes for a twist. Tailoring the recipe makes your Bourbon Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies your own!
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Watch the Bake Time: Every oven is different; keep an eye on your cookies and adjust baking time as needed. Perfectly baked cookies should be golden on the edges but still soft in the center.
What to Serve with Bourbon Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies?
Imagine a delightful spread that complements the rich flavors of these indulgent cookies while inviting warmth and togetherness to the table.
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Hot Cocoa: A creamy, chocolatey beverage that enhances the cookies’ chocolate richness, making every bite feel even more indulgent.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool, creamy texture melts against warm cookies, creating a delightful contrast that tempts everyone to indulge a little more.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing burst of tartness, balancing the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.
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Espresso: The boldness of a freshly brewed espresso accentuates the chocolate and bourbon, making it a perfect pairing for an after-dinner treat.
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Milk: A classic choice, whether cold or warm, enhances the cookies’ flavors and ensures every crumb is enjoyed to the last bite.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of sharp cheeses complements the sweetness of the cookies, adding sophistication to your dessert spread. A mixture of textures adds to the palate pleasure.
Elevate your dessert experience with these pairing ideas, and watch as friends and family gather around delightedly, fueling laughter and memories over your delicious Bourbon Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies!
Bourbon Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of walnuts should I use for my cookies?
I recommend using fresh, medium to large walnut pieces for maximum crunch and flavor. Look for walnuts that are free of dark spots and have a pleasant, nutty aroma. Freshness is key, so choose nuts that are stored in an airtight container and away from light.
How should I store the cookies to keep them fresh?
Absolutely! To store Bourbon Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies at room temperature, place them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For extended freshness, transfer them to the refrigerator where they’ll last up to a week. Just let them come back to room temperature before enjoying.
Can I freeze the dough for later use?
Yes! Freezing the dough is a fantastic idea. To do so, scoop the dough into individual balls and arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until firm (about 1-2 hours), then transfer the balls to a freezer-safe bag, where they can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, just pop them straight into the preheated oven—there’s no need to thaw!
What if my cookies are too flat after baking?
If your cookies come out flat, don’t panic! This could be due to using warm butter or overmixing the dough. To correct this in future batches, ensure your butter is softened but not melted, and gently fold the dry ingredients in until just combined. You might also want to chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help them hold their shape.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! If you’re making these Bourbon Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies for someone with allergies, be mindful of the walnuts and gluten from the flour. For a gluten-free version, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute. Also, if making for kids or non-drinkers, simply omit the bourbon—these cookies will still be divinely delicious!
Can I use other types of chocolate in this recipe?
Very! Feel free to customize the chocolate chips based on your preference. You can swap in white chocolate or even milk chocolate for a sweeter version. If you love intense chocolate flavor, consider adding equal parts of dark and semi-sweet chocolate for a rich, balanced taste.
Bourbon Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies for the Ultimate Indulgence
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your cookie sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1.5 cups of all-purpose flour, 0.5 teaspoons baking soda, 0.5 teaspoons ground cinnamon, and 0.25 teaspoons kosher salt.
- In another bowl, cream together 0.5 cups unsalted butter, 0.5 cups brown sugar, 0.25 cups granulated sugar, 1 egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste, and 1 teaspoon bourbon whiskey until smooth.
- Add the dry flour mixture to the butter mixture, stirring gently. Fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips and 1 cup of walnut pieces.
- Use a cookie scoop to portion dough onto lined cookie sheet, leaving 2 inches between each scoop.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are set and golden brown.
- Allow cookies to cool on the pan for 5-10 minutes before sprinkling with flaky sea salt and serving warm.