How To Make Chinese Walnut Cookies

You can make Chinese walnut cookies at home with just a few simple ingredients and a little patience.
 
These little cookies, often called Hup Toh Soh, are a classic treat found in Chinese bakeries and enjoyed during Lunar New Year and other festive occasions.
 
If you’ve ever wondered how to make Chinese walnut cookies that taste just like the ones from your favorite bakery, you’re in the right place.
 
The good news is that making Chinese walnut cookies is easier than you might think, and the result is a batch of crumbly, nutty, lightly sweet cookies that pair perfectly with a cup of tea.
 
In this post, we’ll walk through what makes these cookies so special, the ingredients you’ll need, and a step-by-step guide on how to make Chinese walnut cookies right in your own kitchen.
 
Let’s dive in.
 

Why Chinese Walnut Cookies Are So Beloved

Chinese walnut cookies have a texture and flavor that’s hard to resist, and here’s why:
 

1. They Have a Distinctive Crumbly Texture

The hallmark of a good Chinese walnut cookie is its melt-in-your-mouth, crumbly texture.
 
This comes from the combination of flour, fat, and a gentle mixing technique that keeps the dough tender.
 
When you bite into one, it almost dissolves on your tongue, leaving behind a rich, nutty flavor.
 

2. The Walnuts Add Richness and Crunch

Walnuts are the star of the show in this recipe, and they’re what gives Chinese walnut cookies their signature taste.
 
Toasted walnuts bring a warm, earthy flavor and a subtle crunch that balances the softness of the cookie.
 
Some recipes call for chopped walnuts mixed into the dough, while others press a whole or halved walnut on top for a beautiful finish.
 

3. They’re Perfect for Holidays and Gifting

In many Chinese households, these cookies are made during Lunar New Year and given as gifts to friends and family.
 
Their round shape symbolizes completeness and unity, making them a meaningful treat to share.
 
Even if you’re not celebrating a holiday, knowing how to make Chinese walnut cookies means you always have a thoughtful homemade gift on hand.
 

Ingredients for Making Chinese Walnut Cookies

Before you start, gather these simple ingredients so you’re ready to make Chinese walnut cookies without scrambling:
 

1. The Dry Ingredients

You’ll need all-purpose flour, a little baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
 
Some recipes also add a small amount of cornstarch to enhance that signature crumbly texture.
 
Powdered sugar is typically used instead of granulated sugar because it blends more smoothly into the dough.
 

2. The Wet Ingredients

For the fat, you can use softened butter, vegetable oil, or even lard, which is traditional in many older recipes.
 
Lard gives the most authentic texture, but butter works beautifully and adds a lovely flavor.
 
You’ll also need one egg, plus an extra egg yolk mixed with a little water for the egg wash.
 

3. The Walnuts

Use fresh, unsalted walnut halves or pieces.
 
Toasting them beforehand deepens their flavor, so don’t skip this step when you make Chinese walnut cookies.
 
Set aside some nice-looking halves to press onto the top of each cookie.
 

How to Make Chinese Walnut Cookies Step by Step

Here’s the simple process for how to make Chinese walnut cookies from scratch:
 

1. Toast and Chop the Walnuts

Spread your walnuts on a baking sheet and toast them at 350°F for about 5 to 7 minutes until fragrant.
 
Let them cool, then chop most of them finely for the dough and reserve some halves for topping.
 

2. Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, cream the softened butter or fat with the powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
 
Add the egg and mix well, then gradually fold in the flour, baking powder, salt, and chopped walnuts.
 
Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the dough, which can make the cookies tough.
 

3. Shape the Cookies

Roll the dough into small balls, about the size of a walnut, and place them on a lined baking sheet.
 
Flatten each ball slightly with your palm or the back of a spoon.
 
Press a walnut half gently into the center of each cookie, then brush the tops with egg wash for a glossy golden finish.
 

4. Bake Until Golden

Bake at 350°F for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the edges turn light golden brown.
 
Keep an eye on them, because these cookies can go from perfect to overbaked quickly.
 
Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
 

Tips for Perfect Chinese Walnut Cookies Every Time

To really nail how to make Chinese walnut cookies, keep these tips in mind:
 

1. Don’t Overmix the Dough

Overmixing develops gluten, which makes the cookies dense instead of crumbly.
 
Stop mixing as soon as the flour disappears into the dough.
 

2. Use Fresh Walnuts

Walnuts can turn rancid if they’re old, so always taste one before using it.
 
Fresh walnuts make all the difference when you make Chinese walnut cookies at home.
 

3. Store Them Properly

Keep your cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
 
They also freeze well, so you can make a big batch and enjoy them later.
 

So, How Do You Make Chinese Walnut Cookies?

You make Chinese walnut cookies by toasting walnuts, mixing a simple crumbly dough with butter, powdered sugar, flour, and chopped nuts, shaping the cookies, and baking them until golden.
 
It’s a straightforward recipe that rewards you with a batch of nutty, tender cookies that taste just like the ones from a Chinese bakery.
 
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving something sweet with your tea, learning how to make Chinese walnut cookies is a skill worth having.
 
Give this recipe a try, and you might find yourself making Chinese walnut cookies a regular tradition in your home.