Hazelnut vs. Walnut: What's the Difference?
Edited by Huma Saeed || By Sumera Saeed || Updated on November 6, 2023
Hazelnuts are small, round nuts from the Corylus tree, sweet-flavored; walnuts are larger, brain-shaped nuts from the Juglans genus, with a more robust taste.
Key Differences
Hazelnuts are the nut of the hazel tree, often round or oval, known for a sweet taste. Walnuts are larger, wrinkled, and resemble the brain, with a stronger, earthier flavor.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 06, 2023
While hazelnuts are commonly used in chocolates and spreads, walnuts are frequent in baking and as a healthful snack due to their omega-3 content.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 06, 2023
The hazelnut shell is smooth and relatively easy to crack, as opposed to the walnut's hard, rugged shell that requires a nutcracker.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 06, 2023
Hazelnut trees are smaller and can be found in temperate climates, whereas walnut trees are larger and have a broader range.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 06, 2023
In terms of cultivation, hazelnuts are primarily grown in Turkey, Italy, and the United States; walnuts are predominantly produced in China, the U.S., and Iran.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 06, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Nutritional Value
High in vitamin E and healthy fats
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants
Harlon Moss
Nov 06, 2023
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Hazelnut and Walnut Definitions
Hazelnut
The nut of the hazel tree.
She sprinkled hazelnuts over the dessert for extra crunch.
Huma Saeed
Nov 06, 2023
Walnut
A wrinkled, globe-shaped nut with a hard shell.
He cracked open a walnut to garnish the salad.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 06, 2023
Hazelnut
A sweet-flavored round nut used in confections.
Hazelnut is the key ingredient in that famous spread.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 06, 2023
Walnut
The seed of a drupe fruit.
The walnut is technically the seed of a drupe, not a true botanical nut.
Harlon Moss
Nov 06, 2023
Hazelnut
A source of hazelnut oil.
Hazelnut oil is praised for its skincare benefits.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 06, 2023
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Walnut
A source of wood and edible nut.
The walnut wood is as prized as the nut itself.
Harlon Moss
Nov 06, 2023
Hazelnut
A nut often used in flavored coffees.
Would you like hazelnut syrup in your latte?
Sara Rehman
Nov 06, 2023
Walnut
A nut rich in antioxidants.
Adding walnuts to your diet can increase your antioxidant intake.
Harlon Moss
Nov 06, 2023
Walnut
The nut of any tree of the genus Juglans.
Walnuts add a rich flavor to brownie recipes.
Huma Saeed
Nov 06, 2023
Hazelnut
The edible nut of a hazel, having a hard smooth brown shell. Also called filbert.
Sumera Saeed
Jan 08, 2023
Walnut
Any of several deciduous trees of the genus Juglans, having pinnately compound leaves and fruits with a rounded sticky husk that encloses an edible seed with a hard shell.
Sumera Saeed
Jan 08, 2023
FAQs
Are hazelnuts and walnuts related?
They are not closely related; they belong to different plant genera.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 06, 2023
Are walnuts healthy?
Walnuts are healthy, offering omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 06, 2023
Can people with nut allergies eat hazelnuts or walnuts?
No, people with nut allergies should avoid both.
Sara Rehman
Nov 06, 2023
What is a hazelnut?
A hazelnut is the edible nut from a hazel tree, sweet and round.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 06, 2023
What is a walnut?
A walnut is the edible, wrinkled seed of a Juglans tree, known for its robust flavor.
Huma Saeed
Nov 06, 2023
How should hazelnuts be stored?
Store them in a cool, dry place, or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 06, 2023
Do hazelnuts need to be shelled before eating?
Yes, they should be shelled to eat the kernel inside.
Janet White
Nov 06, 2023
Are walnuts a good source of protein?
Walnuts contain protein, but they're not as high in protein as some other nuts.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 06, 2023
Is walnut oil good for cooking?
Yes, walnut oil is used for its nutty flavor in cooking.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 06, 2023
What are the benefits of eating walnuts?
Benefits include improved heart health and brain function.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 06, 2023
Do hazelnuts have a distinct flavor?
Hazelnuts have a sweet, mild flavor that is popular in desserts.
Sara Rehman
Nov 06, 2023
What dishes are hazelnuts commonly used in?
They're often used in pastries, chocolates, and spreads.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 06, 2023
Can I grow a walnut tree in my backyard?
Yes, if the climate is suitable and you have space, as they can grow large.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 06, 2023
What's the best way to crack a hazelnut?
Use a nutcracker or a simple rolling pin can work due to its softer shell.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 06, 2023
Do walnuts come in different varieties?
Yes, there are several varieties of walnuts, including English and black walnuts.
Harlon Moss
Nov 06, 2023
Are hazelnuts used in coffee flavoring?
Yes, hazelnut flavor is popular in coffee.
Harlon Moss
Nov 06, 2023
Can walnuts go bad?
Yes, they can become rancid; store them properly to extend their shelf life.
Sara Rehman
Nov 06, 2023
Are hazelnuts good for your skin?
Yes, hazelnut oil is known for skin health benefits.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 06, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
Edited by
Huma SaeedHuma is a renowned researcher acclaimed for her innovative work in Difference Wiki. Her dedication has led to key breakthroughs, establishing her prominence in academia. Her contributions continually inspire and guide her field.
