Nuts are widely used in everyday cooking, baking, and healthy snacks. From almonds and walnuts to cashews and pistachios, these foods are valued for their rich flavor, healthy fats, and high nutritional content.
However, not everything commonly called a “nut” is actually a true nut. Some items belong to different food groups such as seeds or legumes, while others are mainly used as ingredients rather than snacks.
Below is a clear and practical list of types of nuts in English, grouped correctly by category and paired with everyday examples related to food and cooking.
Types of Nuts
Nuts can be grouped into true edible nuts, seed-based foods commonly called nuts, and other special types that are used in cooking or nutrition.
True Nuts
- Almond
- Walnut
- Cashew
- Pistachio
- Hazelnut (also known as Filbert)
- Pecan
- Brazil nut
- Macadamia
- Pili nut
- Hickory nut
- Kola nut
Seeds
- Pumpkin seed
- Sunflower seed
- Flaxseed
- Sacha Inchi
Other “Nuts” Used in Cooking
- Peanut (legume)
- Chestnut
- Pine nut
- Cacao
- Tiger nut
Types of Nuts with Examples
Almond
- Almonds are a healthy snack and a great source of Vitamin E.
Walnut
- I like to add crushed walnuts to my morning oatmeal for extra crunch.
Cashew
- Cashew nuts are often used in creamy vegan sauces.
Pistachio
- Pistachios are commonly used in desserts and ice cream.
Hazelnut
- Hazelnuts are popular in chocolate spreads and baked goods.
Pecan
- Pecan pie is a traditional dessert in the United States.
Brazil nut
- Brazil nuts are rich in selenium and should be eaten in moderation.
Macadamia
- Macadamia nuts are known for their buttery texture and mild flavor.
Pili nut
- Pili nuts are often roasted and lightly salted as a snack.
Hickory nut
- Hickory nuts have a strong flavor and are sometimes used in baking.
Kola nut
- The kola nut is traditionally used to flavor cola drinks.
Pumpkin seed
- Roasted pumpkin seeds make a crunchy and nutritious snack.
Sunflower seed
- Sunflower seeds are often added to salads and bread.
Flaxseed
- Flaxseed is commonly used in smoothies for added fiber.
Sacha Inchi
- Sacha Inchi seeds are valued for their high omega-3 content.
Peanut
- Peanut butter is a popular spread for sandwiches.
Chestnut
- Roasted chestnuts are a popular winter street food.
Pine nut
- Pine nuts are a key ingredient in traditional pesto sauce.
Cacao
- Cacao beans are used to make chocolate and cocoa powder.
Tiger nut
- Tiger nuts are often soaked or ground to make plant-based drinks.
Last Updated on February 2, 2026
