Growing in backyards across the South, this native ingredient is ripe for the fall harvest.

I didnt grow up eating black walnuts, other than inice cream, but Patrick did.

But its the meat, of course, thats the true prize.

Southern Living Black Walnut Banana Bread sliced and ready to serve

Credit:Greg Dupree; Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall; Prop Stylist: Shell Royster

Because they are so unique and fragrant, black walnuts wont settle for a supporting role in a recipe.

Check out the recipes below that put the precious nut to good use.

Theyre not orchard grown but instead represent a wild crop dependent on hand harvesting.

Southern Living No-Churn Black Walnut Ice Cream

Credit:Greg DuPree; Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall; Shell Royster

Made with only a handful of ingredients, it comes out smooth and scoopableand stays that way.

Black Walnut Banana Bread

Quick breads and walnuts have a longstanding friendship.

Southern Living Garlicky Black Walnut-Breadcrumb Pasta in the pan to serve

Credit:Greg DuPree; Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall; Prop Stylist: Shell Royster

Southern Living Fall Salad with Candied Black Walnuts on a platter to serve

Credit:Greg DuPree; Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall; Prop Stylist: Shell Royster

Southern Living Apple-Walnut Pie sliced and ready to serve

Credit:Greg DuPree; Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall; Prop Stylist: Shell Royster