Name: Greek Walnut Macaroons
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-489769H37M58S
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 2 cups walnuts, finely ground; 3 large egg whites; 2/3 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 tsp orange zest (optional); Pinch of salt; Optional: 20–24 whole walnut halves for topping

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Greek walnut macaroons, also known as “karydato macaroons,” are soft, nutty cookies with a chewy center and a lightly crisp exterior. These treats are deeply rooted in traditional Greek baking and feature the warm flavors of walnuts, cinnamon, and sometimes a hint of citrus. I love how simple they are to make and how their rich, nutty flavor fills the kitchen with a comforting aroma.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love these macaroons because they’re naturally gluten-free, made with wholesome ingredients, and require no fancy equipment. The walnuts give the cookies a rustic texture, while the egg whites create a light chew that’s incredibly satisfying. They’re perfect with coffee or tea, and I often make a batch when I want a traditional Greek sweet that’s both easy and elegant. Greek Walnut Macaroons

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Walnuts (finely ground or chopped)
Egg whites
Granulated sugar
Ground cinnamon
Orange zest (optional but traditional)
Salt
Optional: whole walnut halves for topping

Directions

I preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a bowl, I whisk the egg whites with a pinch of salt until soft peaks form.
I gradually add the sugar, continuing to beat until the mixture becomes glossy.
I gently fold in the ground walnuts, cinnamon, and orange zest, mixing until well combined.
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, I drop small mounds of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
I press a walnut half gently into the top of each mound (if using).
I bake the macaroons for about 20–25 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden and the tops are set.
I let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 20–24 macaroons and takes approximately 35 minutes from start to finish, including baking and prep. They’re perfect for holiday cookie trays or an everyday sweet snack.

Variations

Sometimes I add a touch of vanilla extract or swap the orange zest for lemon zest to change the citrus notes. For a chocolate twist, I dip the bottoms of the cooled macaroons in melted dark chocolate. I’ve also tried adding a pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg for a spiced variation.

storage/reheating

I store these macaroons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They also freeze beautifully—just place them in a sealed container and thaw at room temperature before serving. No reheating is needed, as they’re best enjoyed at room temperature. Greek Walnut Macaroons

FAQs

Can I use a food processor to grind the walnuts?

Yes, I use a food processor to pulse the walnuts until they’re finely ground but not turned into paste. I stop when they resemble coarse sand.

Do these cookies contain flour?

No, these are naturally flourless and gluten-free. The ground walnuts provide all the structure the cookies need.

Can I make them sweeter?

If I want them sweeter, I add a bit more sugar, but I usually find the balance just right with the original ratio.

Why did my macaroons spread too much?

If they spread, it may be due to overmixing the egg whites or not beating them enough. I make sure the peaks are soft but stable before folding in the nuts.

Are these the same as coconut macaroons?

No, these are walnut-based and have a spiced, earthy flavor. Coconut macaroons use shredded coconut and have a different texture and sweetness.

Conclusion

Greek walnut macaroons are one of my favorite traditional cookies—nutty, fragrant, and perfectly chewy. They’re easy to make, filled with old-world charm, and make a great gluten-free option for cookie lovers. Whether I’m enjoying them with a hot drink or sharing them at a gathering, they always bring a little piece of Greek comfort to the table.