Best Walnuts: Our Taste Tests!

Let’s talk walnuts!

When storing walnuts, remember that walnuts have a high oil content. That’s why many brands recommend storing walnuts in a refrigerator or freezer.

The California Walnut Board has this advice on getting the most out of your walnuts: 

“Walnuts go rancid when exposed to warm temperatures for long periods of time. Heat causes the fat in walnuts to change structure, which creates off odors and flavors. Fresh walnuts smell mildly nutty and taste sweet. If your walnuts smell like paint thinner, you know they’re rancid. And if they’re rancid, you should throw them away!”

Walnuts are commonly used in baking (cookies, anyone?), but we know folks also like walnuts on salads, hot cereal and even in smoothies.

One important note: be aware that packages may contain pieces or parts of the walnut shell, even if you buy shelled walnuts.

And, yes, walnuts are gluten free—but that doesn’t mean these nuts are processed in a facility that is wheat-free. In fact, many brands note they are processed in facilities that also process wheat, eggs and other nuts.

To find the best walnuts, we did a blind taste test. We were looking for best flavor as well as overall value (and having a resealable bag is helpful as well). 

Here are the ones we’d recommend:

Why Trust Us

We’ve been rating and reviewing products for the home and families since 1994. We do extensive research, evaluating products with an eye toward quality, ease of use and affordability. When we purchase a product for hands-on testing, we do so with our own money. 

Here’s another key point: we don’t take money from the brands we review. No free samples, no sponsors, no “partnerships.” Our work is 100% reader-supported!