Chinese New Year Peanut Cookies – Buttery & Nutty

Chinese New Year is all about celebration, family, and of course, food! Among the many delicious treats enjoyed during this festive season, Chinese New Year Peanut Cookies hold a special place. These crumbly, nutty delights are a staple in many Chinese households, bringing joy with every bite.

I remember as a child, watching my grandmother make these cookies in our kitchen. The aroma of roasted peanuts filled the house, and the sound of peanuts being ground into fine powder was like music to my ears. She would carefully shape each cookie, pressing a peanut in the center before brushing it with egg wash. The result? Golden, melt-in-the-mouth Chinese New Year Peanut Cookies that disappeared within minutes!

But what makes these cookies so special? In Chinese culture, peanuts symbolize longevity and prosperity, making these cookies a lucky treat for the Lunar New Year. Whether you prefer the traditional peanut cookies made from ground peanuts or the modern peanut butter Chinese cookies, there’s a version for everyone.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making CNY Peanut Cookies at home. From ingredients to baking tips, this recipe is simple, delicious, and perfect for celebrating the New Year. So, grab your apron, and let’s get baking!

What Are Chinese New Year Peanut Cookies?

Chinese New Year Peanut Cookies are bite-sized, melt-in-the-mouth treats packed with a rich, nutty flavor. They are a staple during the Lunar New Year celebrations, often served alongside other festive cookies like pineapple tarts, almond cookies, and sesame balls. These cookies are known for their crumbly, buttery texture and deep peanut aroma, making them an irresistible snack for peanut lovers.

Traditionally, these cookies are made with roasted ground peanuts, flour, sugar, and peanut oil, giving them a naturally nutty taste. However, modern variations, like peanut butter Chinese cookies, use store-bought peanut butter for convenience while still delivering the signature peanut flavor.

Why Are Chinese New Year Peanut Cookies So Popular?

1. Symbolism of Peanuts in Chinese Culture – Peanuts represent longevity, prosperity, and good fortune, making these cookies a lucky treat for the New Year.
2. Perfect Festive Snack – These bite-sized delights are easy to pop into your mouth and pair perfectly with tea.
3. Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor – With just a few pantry staples, you can create a batch of traditional peanut cookies bursting with rich peanut goodness.
4. Homemade vs. Store-Bought – While commercial Mazola Peanut Cookies and other brands are widely available, homemade versions have a fresher, more authentic taste.

Whether you’re making the classic Lunar New Year peanut cookies with ground peanuts or the peanut butter variation, these cookies are a must-have for celebrating the holiday with family and friends!

Ingredients for Chinese New Year Peanut Cookies

Making Chinese New Year Peanut Cookies is easier than you think! The key to achieving the perfect crumbly texture and nutty aroma lies in using the right ingredients. Below, I’ve listed everything you need, along with some possible substitutions.

Traditional Chinese Peanut Cookies Ingredients

This version sticks to the classic method, using ground roasted peanuts for an authentic, nutty taste.

• Roasted peanuts (200g) – Ground into a fine, sandy texture. Avoid over-grinding, or you’ll end up with peanut butter!
• All-purpose flour (150g) – Provides structure to the cookies. You can also use rice flour for a more melt-in-the-mouth texture.
• Powdered sugar (80g) – Sweetens the cookies without making them grainy. Icing sugar works well, too.
• Peanut oil (80-100ml) – Adds moisture and enhances the peanut flavor. You can substitute with vegetable oil or Mazola oil.
• Table salt (¼ tsp) – Balances the sweetness and brings out the peanut flavor.
• Egg yolk (1) – For an optional egg wash to achieve a shiny, golden brown finish.

Peanut Butter Chinese Cookies Ingredients

For those who prefer a smoother peanut flavor, this variation uses peanut butter instead of ground peanuts.

• Creamy peanut butter (200g) – Gives a rich, nutty taste with a softer texture.
• All-purpose flour (150g) – Helps hold the dough together.
• Powdered sugar (80g) – Adjust to taste based on the sweetness of your peanut butter.
• Butter or melted shortening (80g) – Adds richness to balance the peanut butter.
• Baking powder (½ tsp) – Optional, but it helps make the cookies lighter.
• Egg yolk & milk (for egg wash) – Creates a glossy, golden finish.

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

• Peanut Oil vs. Other Oils – Peanut oil enhances the nutty flavor, but vegetable oil or butter can be used for a slightly different taste.
• Peanut Butter Choices – If using natural peanut butter, you may need to adjust the oil since it has a runnier consistency.
• Vegan & Egg-Free Option – Skip the egg wash or use a dairy-free milk alternative for a vegan-friendly version.
• Gluten-Free Variation – Swap all-purpose flour for gluten-free flour or rice flour for a delicate texture.

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s move on to the fun part—making these delicious CNY Peanut Cookies!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chinese New Year Peanut Cookies

Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to make these delicious Chinese New Year Peanut Cookies! Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure your cookies turn out crumbly, nutty, and perfect for your festive celebrations.

1: Preparing the Peanuts (If Using Whole Peanuts)

If you’re making traditional peanut cookies with ground peanuts instead of peanut butter, this step is essential.

1. Roast the peanuts – If using raw peanuts, spread them on a baking sheet and roast at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until fragrant. Let them cool.
2. Remove the skins – Once cooled, rub the peanuts between your hands or inside a kitchen towel to remove the skins.
3. Grind the peanuts – Using a food processor, pulse the roasted peanuts until finely ground. Be careful not to over-process, or they’ll turn into peanut butter!

(Skip this step if using peanut butter.)

2: Mixing the Dough

1. Combine dry ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
   • Ground peanuts (or creamy peanut butter)
   • All-purpose flour (or rice flour for a softer texture)
   • Powdered sugar
   • Salt
2. Add the oil or butter – Slowly drizzle in peanut oil (or melted butter) while mixing with a spatula or hands. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
3. Adjust consistency if needed – If the dough feels dry, add a teaspoon of oil at a time. If it’s too oily, add a bit more flour.

3: Shaping the Cookies

1. Roll the dough into balls – Take about 1 teaspoon of dough and roll it into a smooth ball.
2. Flatten slightly – Place each dough ball onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper and gently press down.
3. Make indentations for decoration (Optional)
   • Use a fork to press a crisscross pattern.
   • Press a whole peanut into the center.
   • Use a straw to create a small indentation in the middle.

4: Applying the Egg Wash (For a Glossy Finish)

1. In a small bowl, whisk 1 egg yolk + 1 teaspoon milk.
2. Use a pastry brush to lightly coat the top of each cookie.
3. This will give the cookies a golden brown finish after baking. (Skip this step for a vegan version.)

5: Baking the Peanut Cookies

1. Preheat your oven – Set it to 350°F (175°C) or 375°F (190°C) depending on your oven.
2. Bake the cookies – Place the tray on the middle rack and bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown.
3. Check for doneness – The cookies should have a light golden color and a firm texture.

6: Cooling & Final Touches

1. Let the cookies cool on the baking tray for about 5 minutes.
2. Transfer to a wire rack and allow them to cool completely. This helps maintain their crispy yet crumbly texture.
3. Enjoy your homemade Chinese New Year Peanut Cookies!

Up next, I’ll share the best tips for making these cookies perfect every time!

Tips for the Best Chinese New Year Peanut Cookies

Making Chinese New Year Peanut Cookies is simple, but a few small details can make the difference between a good batch and a perfect one. Follow these tips to get that melt-in-the-mouth texture, rich peanut aroma, and golden brown finish every time!

1. Choose the Right Peanuts or Peanut Butter

• For Traditional Peanut Cookies: Use unsalted roasted peanuts for the best flavor. Avoid salted peanuts, as they can make the cookies too salty.
• For Peanut Butter Cookies: Use creamy peanut butter for a smooth texture or chunky peanut butter if you like bits of peanuts in every bite.
• Avoid over-grinding the peanuts – Stop when they reach a sandy, flour-like texture. If you grind too much, you’ll end up with peanut butter, which can make the dough too oily.

2. Get the Right Dough Consistency

• The dough should be soft but not sticky. If it crumbles too much, add a little more peanut oil.
• If the dough is too oily and hard to shape, mix in a bit more flour until it holds together.
• When using natural peanut butter, stir it well before adding it to the dough, as the oil may have separated.

3. Achieve the Perfect Golden Brown Finish

• Use an egg wash – Brushing the tops with egg yolk gives the cookies a beautiful golden color.
• For an extra glossy finish, mix a teaspoon of milk into the egg yolk before brushing.
• If making a vegan version, skip the egg wash or use a plant-based milk alternative.

4. Avoid Common Baking Mistakes

• Don’t overbake – The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool, so take them out when they’re lightly golden.
• Space them evenly – These cookies don’t spread much, but leaving a small gap between them ensures even baking.
• Use parchment paper – This prevents sticking and makes clean-up easier.

5. Storage Tips to Keep Them Fresh

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 weeks.
• For long-term storage, freeze the cookies in a sealed container and thaw before serving.
• If you like extra-crunchy cookies, toast them in the oven for 5 minutes at 300°F before serving.

With these expert tips, your CNY Peanut Cookies will turn out just like the ones from a traditional Chinese bakery—if not better! Next, we’ll cover some common baking mistakes and how to fix them.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even though Chinese New Year Peanut Cookies are simple to make, a few common mistakes can affect their texture, taste, or appearance. Here’s what to watch out for and how to fix these issues.

1. Using Salted Peanuts

Problem: Salted peanuts can make the cookies overly salty, disrupting the balance of flavors.
Solution: Always use unsalted roasted peanuts. If you only have salted peanuts, rinse and dry them thoroughly before grinding.

2. Over-Grinding Peanuts Into Peanut Butter

Problem: If peanuts are processed too long, they release their natural oils and turn into peanut butter, making the dough too wet and greasy.
Solution: Pulse the peanuts in short bursts and stop when they reach a sandy texture. If you accidentally grind too much, mix in extra flour to absorb some of the excess oil.

3. Incorrect Oil Measurement

Problem: Adding too much oil makes the cookies overly soft and oily, while too little results in dry, crumbly dough that won’t hold its shape.
Solution: Start with 80 ml of peanut oil and add more gradually if needed. The dough should be soft but firm enough to roll into balls without falling apart.

4. Baking at the Wrong Temperature

Problem: If the oven is too hot, the cookies can brown too quickly on the outside while staying undercooked inside. If too low, they may turn out dry and pale.
Solution: Bake at 350°F (175°C) to 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes. Check the cookies at the 15-minute mark and adjust if necessary.

5. Burning the Bottoms of the Cookies

Problem: Direct contact with a hot baking tray can cause the cookie bottoms to burn before the tops are fully baked.
Solution: Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent burning. Placing the baking tray in the middle rack also helps distribute heat evenly.

6. Skipping the Egg Wash

Problem: Without an egg wash, the cookies may look dull and pale instead of having a golden brown shine.
Solution: Lightly brush egg yolk mixed with a teaspoon of milk on top before baking for a glossy, bakery-style finish. If making a vegan version, simply skip this step or use plant-based milk.

7. Storing Cookies Incorrectly

Problem: Leaving the cookies exposed to air makes them lose their crisp texture and become stale.
Solution: Once completely cooled, store in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, store them in layers separated by parchment paper.

By avoiding these common mistakes, your Lunar New Year Peanut Cookies will turn out perfect every time. Next, we’ll cover the best ways to store and keep them fresh.

How to Store and Keep Chinese New Year Peanut Cookies Fresh

Proper storage is key to keeping Chinese New Year Peanut Cookies fresh, crisp, and full of flavor. Here’s how to store them correctly so you can enjoy them long after they come out of the oven.

1. Storing at Room Temperature

• Let the cookies cool completely before storing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Place them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place for up to 3-4 weeks.
• To keep the cookies crisp, layer them with parchment paper inside the container.

2. Freezing for Long-Term Storage

If you want to make these cookies ahead of time or keep them for later, freezing is a great option.

• Arrange the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1 hour.
• Transfer the frozen cookies into a sealed freezer bag or container.
• Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• When ready to eat, let the cookies thaw at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.

3. Keeping the Cookies Crunchy

• If the cookies become soft over time, toast them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes to restore their crunch.
• Store them with a small silica gel packet (food-safe) inside the container to absorb excess moisture.

4. Best Containers for Storage

• Glass jars with tight lids – Keeps cookies crisp and makes for a great gift presentation.
• Plastic airtight containers – Prevents exposure to air and moisture.
• Metal tins – Helps maintain freshness and gives a festive feel, perfect for Chinese New Year.

By following these storage tips, you can keep your CNY Peanut Cookies fresh and delicious for weeks. Next, let’s look at the best ways to serve and pair them with other festive treats.

Serving Suggestions and Perfect Pairings f

Chinese New Year Peanut Cookies are delicious on their own, but pairing them with the right drinks or other festive treats can elevate the experience. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering or gifting them to loved ones, here are the best ways to enjoy these nutty, melt-in-the-mouth delights.

1. Pairing with Traditional Chinese Teas

A warm cup of tea enhances the nutty flavor of these cookies while balancing their sweetness. Here are some great tea pairings:

• Ginger Tea – The spicy warmth of ginger complements the rich peanut flavor. (Try this: Pair your peanut cookies with a cup of warming Ginger Tea, a perfect companion for a cozy treat.)
• Jasmine Tea – Light and floral, perfect for cutting through the richness of peanut cookies.
• Oolong Tea – A great balance between floral and earthy notes, enhancing the peanut aroma.
• Pu-erh Tea – Deep, fermented flavors pair beautifully with buttery cookies.

2. Enjoying with Other Chinese New Year Treats

Peanut cookies are often served alongside other festive snacks. Here are some traditional favorites:

• Pineapple Tarts – Sweet, tangy, and buttery, these are another must-have CNY cookie.
• Almond Cookies – Similar in texture but with a mild almond flavor.
• Kuih Kapit (Love Letters) – Crispy, thin egg rolls with a delicate sweetness.
• Nian Gao (Sticky Rice Cake) – A soft, chewy dessert that represents prosperity in Chinese culture.
• Cashew Cookies – A close relative of peanut cookies, these have a milder nutty taste.

3. Gifting Peanut Cookies for Chinese New Year

In Chinese culture, gifting homemade treats is a way of sharing luck and prosperity. Here’s how to present Lunar New Year Peanut Cookies beautifully:

• Pack them in red and gold tins – Red symbolizes good fortune, making it a perfect color for New Year gifts.
• Use decorative boxes with clear lids – This lets the golden cookies shine through.
• Tie with a red ribbon – A simple yet elegant way to present homemade cookies.
• Pair with a red packet (hongbao) – A small red envelope with a good luck message makes the gift extra special.

4. Making It a Dessert Spread

If you’re hosting a Lunar New Year party, consider creating a dessert platter featuring:

• Peanut cookies
• Almond cookies
• Pineapple tarts
• A selection of Chinese teas
• Fresh mandarins (a symbol of prosperity)

With these serving ideas, you’ll be able to fully enjoy the Chinese Peanut Cookies tradition, whether you’re indulging at home or sharing them with family and friends. Next, let’s look at variations of this recipe and other classic treats you can try!

Variations and Related Recipes

While the classic Chinese New Year Peanut Cookies are already delicious, there are plenty of ways to customize them based on your preferences. Whether you want a different nutty flavor, a peanut-free alternative, or a no-bake version, here are some great variations to try.

1. Different Nut Cookie Variations

If you love the texture and flavor of peanut cookies but want to switch things up, try these nut-based alternatives:

• Almond Cookies – Swap ground peanuts for ground almonds for a lighter, slightly sweet nutty taste.
• Cashew Cookies – Use finely ground cashews for a buttery, delicate texture.
• Walnut Cookies – Crushed walnuts add a deeper, earthy flavor.

2. Peanut-Free Alternatives

For those with peanut allergies or looking for different flavors, consider these substitutes:

• Sunflower Seed Cookies – Sunflower seed butter can replace peanut butter for a nut-free version.
• Sesame Cookies – Made with toasted sesame seeds, offering a fragrant, slightly smoky flavor.

3. No-Bake Peanut Cookies

For a quick and easy version, skip the oven with these methods:

• Refrigerator Peanut Butter Cookies – Mix peanut butter, powdered sugar, and crushed biscuits, then refrigerate until firm.
• Peanut Oat Energy Bites – Blend peanut butter, honey, oats, and crushed nuts, then roll into bite-sized balls.

4. Other Classic Chinese Treats to Try

If you’re exploring more festive treats, these recipes are perfect for Chinese New Year:

• Pineapple Tarts – Sweet, buttery pastries filled with tangy pineapple jam.
• Kuih Bangkit – Light, airy tapioca flour cookies that melt in your mouth.
• Kuih Kapit (Love Letters) – Crisp, delicate egg rolls often served during Lunar New Year.

Want to try more traditional Chinese flavors? Check out this guide on Peanut Cookies.

With all these variations, you can enjoy CNY Peanut Cookies in different ways or experiment with new flavors for the holiday season. Next, let’s go over some frequently asked questions to help you perfect your baking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some of the most common questions about making Chinese New Year Peanut Cookies at home.

Chinese New Year Peanut Cookies

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• Author: Jake
• Total Time: 33 minutes
• Yield: 30 cookies
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

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Description

Delicious, melt-in-the-mouth Chinese New Year Peanut Cookies that symbolize longevity and prosperity. These nutty treats are perfect for celebrating the Lunar New Year with family and friends!

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Ingredients

• 200g roasted peanuts (ground into fine powder)
• 150g all-purpose flour
• 80g powdered sugar
• 80–100ml peanut oil
• 1/4 tsp table salt
• 1 egg yolk (for egg wash, optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grind roasted peanuts until they reach a sandy texture.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine ground peanuts, flour, powdered sugar, and salt.
4. Gradually add peanut oil while mixing until a soft dough forms.
5. Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking tray.
6. Flatten slightly and apply an egg wash for a golden finish.
7. Bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown.
8. Let cool on a wire rack before serving.

Notes

Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 weeks. For a vegan version, skip the egg wash or use plant-based milk.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Chinese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie
• Calories: 90
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 20mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 5mg

Keywords: peanut cookies, Chinese New Year, Lunar New Year, festive cookies