California Walnuts: Raw or Roasted — Which Suits You Best?

California walnuts are known for their naturally rich taste and a texture that’s tender yet crisp. AlSultanFood Walnuts are walnut halves imported from California, and you can choose either raw or roasted.

The question we get most is: which one should I buy? This article answers that, along with ideas for using them, size choices and how to store walnuts properly.

About walnut halves

Walnut halves are the kernels taken out of the shell in half or near-whole pieces. Their distinctive ridged shape makes them a pretty topping for cakes and desserts. The thin skin has a slight bitterness while the inside is rich and buttery — the classic walnut character.

Raw vs roasted walnuts

• Raw — milder in flavour. Best for cakes, brownies, cookies and bread, since they’ll be baked again with the batter.
• Roasted — more aromatic and crunchy. Great straight from the jar or sprinkled over salads and oats.

Both types come in 150g, 300g and 600g.

Ideas for using walnuts

1. 1Walnut brownies — fold roughly chopped raw walnuts into the batter.
2. 2Banana or date cake — walnuts balance the moist crumb with a little crunch.
3. 3Salads — roasted walnuts with leafy greens and dried fruit.
4. 4Breakfast — sprinkle over oats, yoghurt or toast with honey.
5. 5Snacking — a handful of roasted walnuts with a few dates.

Choosing a size

150g suits one or two recipes. 300g is for regular bakers or walnut snackers. 600g is for cake makers, big families or the festive season.

How to store walnuts properly

Walnuts are high in natural oils, so they can turn rancid faster if kept somewhere warm. Close the jar tightly, keep it away from light and heat, and refrigerate if you won’t finish them soon. Check the expiry date on the pack.

Allergy note: walnuts are tree nuts and are not suitable for anyone with a nut allergy. To compare with other nuts, read our guide to nuts and seeds.

Quick recipe: walnut brownies

1. 1Make your favourite brownie batter.
2. 2Roughly chop a handful of raw walnuts.
3. 3Fold two-thirds of the walnuts into the batter.
4. 4Pour into the tin and scatter the rest of the walnuts on top.
5. 5Bake according to your recipe, then cool before slicing.

The walnuts on top toast lightly in the oven for extra aroma, while those inside add a tender crunch to every bite.

Walnuts and dates

Walnuts and dates are a perfect match — the rich walnut balances the sweet date. Try slitting a date, removing the stone, and tucking in a piece of roasted walnut. It’s a simple snack that looks lovely on a guest platter. See our complete guide to dates to pick a variety.

Why buy from AlSultanFood?

• Walnut halves imported from California.
• Raw or roasted, chosen on one product page.
• Clear screw-top jars in 150g, 300g and 600g.
• Halal and delivered across Malaysia.

In short

AlSultanFood California walnuts come two ways: raw for baking and cooking, roasted for snacking and toppings. Both are available in 150g, 300g and 600g. As walnuts are naturally oily, keep the jar tightly closed somewhere cool, and use the fridge for longer storage.