Print

Delicious Italian Nut Roll Cookies Recipe

Print Recipe

Italian Nut Roll Cookies are a classic holiday treat featuring a tender, flaky dough wrapped around a rich, nutty filling. With their sweet and buttery flavor, these cookies are perfect for celebrations, cookie swaps, or enjoying with a cup of coffee.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Dough:

  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Nut Filling:

  • 1 1/2 cups ground walnuts or pecans
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)

For Finishing:

  • Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

  • Prepare the Dough:
    • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
    • In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg yolk, sour cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.
    • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. Divide the dough into two equal portions, flatten into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  • Make the Nut Filling:
    • In a small saucepan, combine the ground nuts, sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon (if using). Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
  • Assemble the Cookies:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
    • Roll out one disc of dough on a floured surface into a rectangle about 1/8-inch thick. Spread half of the nut filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
    • Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Repeat with the second disc of dough and the remaining filling.
  • Slice and Bake:
    • Slice the logs into 1-inch pieces and place them seam-side down on the prepared baking sheets.
    • Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
  • Cool and Finish:
    • Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

  • Nut Options: Use walnuts, pecans, or a mix of both for the filling. Hazelnuts can also be used for a unique flavor.
  • Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Make-Ahead: The dough can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and kept in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Keywords: Italian Nut Roll Cookies, nut-filled cookies, holiday cookie recipe, walnut cookies, pecan cookies, Italian desserts, traditional Italian cookies, nut rolls, Christmas cookies, sweet pastry rolls.

Find it online: https://inqelab.com/delicious-italian-nut-roll-cookies-recipe/