Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy, crunchy, and utterly delicious macadamia nut-based recipes! Macadamia nuts are often associated with Hawaiian cuisine, but their unique flavor and texture make them a versatile ingredient perfect for a wide range of dishes. From savory main courses to sweet treats, these 18 creamy macadamia nut recipes will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.
Whether you’re in the mood for a tropical-inspired fish dish or a decadent dessert, we’ve got you covered. Try our Macadamia Nut Crusted Mahi-Mahi for a flavorful and healthy dinner option, or go all out with our White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Cookies that are sure to impress your friends and family.
In this article, we’ll explore the many uses of macadamia nuts in cooking and provide you with a selection of mouthwatering recipes to try at home. So grab your apron and get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of these creamy macadamia nut dishes!
Macadamia Nut Crusted Mahi-Mahi
Elevate your seafood game with this decadent and flavorful dish, featuring crispy macadamia nut crust on a tender mahi-mahi fillet.
Ingredients:
– 4 mahi-mahi fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup macadamia nuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp lemon zest
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a food processor, blend macadamia nuts until coarsely ground.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together ground macadamia nuts, olive oil, lemon zest, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Dip each mahi-mahi fillet into the nut mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1-2 fillets (depending on size) and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
6. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Creamy Macadamia Nut Pasta with Garlic Butter
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and indulgent dish that combines the crunch of macadamia nuts with the creamy goodness of garlic butter. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped macadamia nuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine with garlic butter sauce.
6. Sprinkle chopped macadamia nuts on top and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Cookies
Get ready for a taste sensation with these chewy cookies packed with white chocolate chunks and crunchy macadamia nuts. Perfect for a snack or dessert, these sweet treats are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped macadamia nuts
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, then stir in macadamia nuts and white chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Macadamia Nut and Coconut Crusted Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this tropical twist! Crunchy macadamia nuts and shredded coconut combine for a flavorfully addictive crust.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup macadamia nuts
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a food processor, blend macadamia nuts, coconut, and panko breadcrumbs until coarsely chopped.
3. Place chicken breasts on a flat surface and sprinkle both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
4. Dip each breast in olive oil, then coat evenly with the nut-coconut mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Macadamia Nut Butter Smoothie Bowl
Get ready to start your day with a delicious and nutritious smoothie bowl packed with creamy macadamia nut butter, ripe banana, and crunchy granola.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana
– 2 tablespoons macadamia nut butter
– 1/2 cup frozen pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Toppings: sliced almonds, shredded coconut, and granola
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine banana, macadamia nut butter, pineapple chunks, almond milk, honey, vanilla extract, and salt.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Pour the smoothie into a bowl and top with sliced almonds, shredded coconut, and granola.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Macadamia Nut and Banana Bread
Moist and flavorful, this bread combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with the crunch of macadamia nuts.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped macadamia nuts
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, melted butter, and egg. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped macadamia nuts.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Macadamia Nut Crusted Salmon with Mango Salsa
Elevate your dinner game with this tropical fusion of flavors and textures. Crispy macadamia nut crust pairs perfectly with the sweetness of mango salsa.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup macadamia nuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mango Salsa (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a food processor, grind macadamia nuts until coarsely chopped.
3. Mix together olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
4. Dip each salmon fillet into the honey mixture, then coat with the macadamia nut mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with any remaining honey mixture.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Serve with macadamia nut crusted salmon.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Macadamia Nut and Dark Chocolate Bark
This elegant bark is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or as a thoughtful gift. Crunchy macadamia nuts and velvety dark chocolate come together in harmony to create a treat that’s both sophisticated and indulgent.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup macadamia nuts
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Pinch of flaky sea salt
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir in the melted butter and macadamia nuts.
4. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and smooth into an even layer.
5. Sprinkle with sea salt to taste.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until set.
Cooking Time: None required, as this bark is best served chilled.
Macadamia Nut Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Elevate your morning routine with these rich and buttery pancakes featuring the unique flavor of macadamia nuts. Paired with a drizzle of pure maple syrup, every bite is a delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 cup chopped macadamia nuts
– Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine sugar, melted butter, eggs, and milk.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped macadamia nuts.
6. Drop by 1/4 cupfuls onto the preheated skillet or griddle.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Macadamia Nut and Lime Grilled Shrimp
Elevate your grilling game with this refreshing Macadamia Nut and Lime Grilled Shrimp recipe, perfect for a warm evening by the pool or on a summer BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup macadamia nut oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together macadamia nut oil, lime juice, honey, and grated ginger.
3. Add shrimp to the marinade, making sure they’re fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove shrimp from marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Macadamia Nut and Honey Granola Bars
Elevate your snack game with these chewy granola bars packed with crunchy macadamia nuts and drizzled with warm honey. Perfect for a quick energy boost or a satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped macadamia nuts
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, macadamia nuts, peanut butter, and honey. Mix until well combined.
3. Stir in brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Macadamia Nut and Coconut Ice Cream
Experience the tropical flavors of Hawaii with this rich and creamy ice cream recipe, featuring toasted macadamia nuts and shredded coconut.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup chopped toasted macadamia nuts
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in unsweetened shredded coconut and chopped toasted macadamia nuts. Let it steep for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container. Whisk in vanilla extract.
4. Cover and refrigerate until chilled, at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes + chilling time (at least 2 hours)
Macadamia Nut and Basil Pesto Pasta
This recipe combines the richness of macadamia nuts with the brightness of basil, creating a unique and flavorful pasta dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1/2 cup macadamia nuts
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped basil leaves
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a food processor or blender, combine macadamia nuts, basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and salt. Process until coarsely chopped.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top. Continue processing until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.
4. Add cooked pasta to the pesto and toss until well coated.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Macadamia Nut Crusted Pork Tenderloin
Elevate your pork game with this crunchy and flavorful Macadamia Nut Crusted Pork Tenderloin recipe. This sweet and savory dish is perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 oz) pork tenderloin
– 1/2 cup macadamia nuts, chopped
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together chopped macadamia nuts, honey, olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Season the pork tenderloin with salt and pepper.
4. Dip the pork tenderloin into the nut mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place the coated pork tenderloin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Macadamia Nut and Caramel Tart
A sweet and savory combination of crunchy macadamia nuts and gooey caramel, nestled in a buttery pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup macadamia nuts, chopped
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar and brown sugar. Sprinkle evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Drizzle melted butter over the sugar mixture, followed by chopped macadamia nuts.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the caramel is bubbly.
6. Remove from oven and drizzle with caramel sauce. Sprinkle with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Macadamia Nut and Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
Elevate your dessert game with this Macadamia Nut and Pineapple Upside-Down Cake, featuring the rich flavors of macadamia nuts and sweet pineapple rings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups (210g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120g) brown sugar
– 1/2 cup (60g) chopped macadamia nuts
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup pineapple rings, drained and sliced
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Stir in flour mixture, macadamia nuts, and pineapple juice.
5. Arrange pineapple rings on top of batter. Pour remaining batter over pineapple.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before flipping onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Macadamia Nut and Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this decadent and flavorful recipe that combines the earthiness of mushrooms, the richness of macadamia nuts, and the freshness of spinach. Perfect for a dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped macadamia nuts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, sauté spinach and garlic until wilted.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the spinach mixture, followed by macadamia nuts and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the mushrooms and top with cheddar cheese (if using).
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Macadamia Nut and Orange Glazed Ham
Elevate your holiday gathering with this scrumptious ham glazed with a mixture of sweet macadamia nuts, tangy orange, and savory spices. This show-stopping main course is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham, trimmed
– 1/2 cup macadamia nuts, chopped
– 1/2 cup orange marmalade
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon ground mustard
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together macadamia nuts, orange marmalade, brown sugar, honey, mustard, and thyme.
3. Place the ham on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Score the fat layer in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get some into the scored lines.
5. Cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized and the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
7. Let the ham rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 1/2 hours
Summary
Indulge in the rich flavor of macadamia nuts with these 18 decadent recipes! From savory dishes like Macadamia Nut Crusted Mahi-Mahi and Macadamia Nut and Basil Pesto Pasta, to sweet treats like White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Cookies and Macadamia Nut and Pineapple Upside-Down Cake, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy the crunch of macadamia nuts in recipes like Macadamia Nut Pancakes with Maple Syrup and Macadamia Nut and Honey Granola Bars. With these creamy and indulgent dishes, you’ll be treating yourself to a nutty good time!
