There's something wonderfully comforting about nutty cookies. We always have a stock of mixed nuts in our pantry - a nutritious, long-lasting staple that's fantastic for the children's lunchboxes and quick snacks. But these humble mixed nuts also hold a secret baking superpower: they transform into delicious, homemade nut flour with a few pulses in a food processor, blender, flour mill, or even a coffee grinder.

Using hazelnuts in your cookies lends them an irresistible aroma and flavor that's reminiscent of Nutella, while walnuts add a delightful crunch. Peanuts can add a delightful twist, especially when combined with a dollop of peanut butter for an extra peanut-y punch. And if you're using a mixed bag of nuts, you're in for a delightful treat with a bit of everything.

The consistency of your nut flour can dramatically alter the texture of your cookies. If you like a little crunch, keep your milling on the coarse side tomaintain those bite-sized nutty pieces that lend a toothsome charm to each bite. But, if you're craving a smoother, more decadent treat, keep milling until your nuts reach a fine consistency. The result? Cookies with an unexpectedly moist, rich, and fatty texture that's pure indulgence.

Think of it like this: a coarser mill gives you cookies with chopped nuts; a finer mill gives you nutty cookies. And let me tell you, the difference is remarkable. Nut flour cookies taste less like a cookie that has nuts in it and more like a cookie made from nuts - a delectable nuttiness that permeates each crumb.

Try the following simple recipe the next time you're in a mood for a cookie baking session:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of mixed nuts

• 1 cup of all-purpose flour

• 1 cup of sugar

• 1/2 cup of butter, softened

• 1 egg

• 1 tsp of baking powder

• 1/2 tsp of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 180C/350F.

2. Grind the nuts in a food processor until you reach your preferred consistency.

3. Cream together the sugar and butter in a large bowl.

4. Beat in the egg until well combined.

5. Stir in the ground nuts and flour.

6. Add the baking powder and salt, mixing until the dough comes together.

7. Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto a lined baking sheet.

8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.

Whether you prefer the distinctive crunch of chopped nuts or the surprising richness of finely milled nut flour, these cookies are sure to become a new favorite. Enjoy them fresh from the oven or store them in an airtight container for a rainy day treat. Happy baking!

More recipes for lovely cookies: