I have seen several recipes calling for black walnuts. What is the difference between them and the walnuts that are usually found in grocery stores? —J.W., Niles, Michigan
The walnuts found in the grocery store are mild-tasting English walnuts. They have a semi-firm light brown shell. Native American black walnuts have a very hard thick black shell. The flavor is richer and more intense than the English walnut. Because black walnuts are difficult to shell, they are not as widely available commercially as English walnuts.
As a cold and tasty finishing touch, my husband and I usually put a dip of ice cream on top of this pie. The recipe comes from my mother. Each year, I make it for Christmas and for my sister-in-law's New Year's party. —Laverne Kamp, Kutztown, Pennsylvania
I've made batches of these rolls to give to the mail carrier for Christmas, to our church music minister for his birthday and for any number of people who needed a pick-me up. Thick cream cheese frosting is the fast finishing touch.
Black walnuts add a flavor twist to this scrumptious, from-scratch cake. I loved to lick the remnants of the sweet, chocolate frosting from Mom's stainless steel bowl.
—Joann Jensen (daughter), Lowell, Indiana
