If you’ve ever dreamed of a cookie that’s buttery, flaky, and filled with a rich, nutty surprise, then Italian Nut Roll Cookies are here to make those dreams come true. These little rolls are like a delicious treasure chest crisp on the outside, tender inside, and packed with a luscious nut filling that’s sweet, slightly spiced, and utterly addictive. They’re perfect for sharing (or sneaking when no one’s looking), and they bring a cozy, homemade charm to any occasion. Trust me, this one’s a game-changer for your cookie repertoire!

Why You’ll Love Italian Nut Roll Cookies

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a special gathering, or just because you need a sweet pick-me-up, these cookies will fit right in. Here’s why they’re a favorite:

Versatile: Great for gifting, celebrations, or an everyday treat with coffee or tea.

Budget-Friendly: Uses simple pantry staples and nuts you can customize to your liking.

Quick and Easy: Dough comes together quickly and baking is straightforward.

Customizable: Swap walnuts for pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts or add a hint of cinnamon or citrus zest to the filling.

Crowd-Pleasing: Perfectly balanced sweetness and texture, they’re loved by kids and adults alike.

Ingredients in Italian Nut Roll Cookies

Here’s the magic behind these delightful cookies it’s all about the flaky dough paired with a rich, nutty filling:

All-Purpose Flour

Creates a tender, flaky cookie base that holds the filling beautifully.

Butter

Adds richness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture to the dough.

Sugar

Sweetens both dough and filling for the perfect balance.

Eggs

Bind everything together and give the dough structure.

Nuts (Walnuts or Pecans)

Toasted and finely chopped, they add crunch and deep, toasty flavor.

Honey or Maple Syrup

Sweetens the nut filling naturally with a warm, floral note.

Cinnamon (Optional)

Adds a cozy warmth to the nut filling.

Vanilla Extract

Enhances the overall flavor with a subtle sweetness.

Salt

Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create these irresistible Italian Nut Roll Cookies:

Preheat Your Equipment

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until a smooth dough forms. Chill dough for 30 minutes.

Make the Nut Filling

Toast nuts in a dry skillet until fragrant. Chop finely, then mix with honey (or maple syrup), sugar, cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of salt until combined.

Roll Out the Dough

On a floured surface, roll dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.

Assemble the Rolls

Spread the nut filling evenly over the dough. Carefully roll up the dough tightly from the long side, forming a log.

Slice and Bake

Cut the log into 1/2-inch thick slices and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake to Perfection

Bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown around the edges.

Cool and Serve

Let cookies cool on a wire rack before serving to let them set and develop that perfect texture.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: About 24 cookies
Calories per serving: Approximately 150

(Note: Nutrition info may vary based on ingredients used.)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling)
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour (including chilling)

How to Serve Italian Nut Roll Cookies

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

• Serve alongside a cup of strong espresso or your favorite coffee.
• Pair with a mild black or herbal tea for a soothing treat.
• Arrange on a festive cookie platter for parties and holidays.
• Dust lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
• Enjoy with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert twist.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• Use cold butter for the best flaky dough texture.
• Toast nuts carefully to avoid burning and preserve flavor.
• Chill dough thoroughly before rolling to make it easier to handle.
• Use a sharp knife to slice the rolls cleanly and evenly.
• Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh longer.
• Experiment with different nuts or add dried fruit to the filling for variety.
• If dough becomes too soft while working, pop it back in the fridge briefly.
• Add a splash of citrus zest (lemon or orange) to the filling for brightness.
• For a sweeter touch, drizzle with a simple powdered sugar glaze.
• These cookies freeze well wrap tightly and thaw before serving.

FAQs

1 Can I use different nuts for the filling?
Yes, walnuts, pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts all work wonderfully.

2 Is it okay to use maple syrup instead of honey?
Absolutely maple syrup adds a lovely flavor and works perfectly.

3 Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and chill the dough overnight before assembling.

4 How should I store leftover cookies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

5 Can I freeze the baked cookies?
Yes, freeze in a sealed container and thaw at room temperature before serving.

6 What if my dough is sticky?
Chill it longer or add a little extra flour when rolling out.

7 Can I add spices to the filling?
Definitely! Cinnamon is classic, but nutmeg or cloves work well too.

8 Are these cookies gluten-free?
This recipe uses all-purpose flour but can be adapted with a gluten-free blend.

9 How thick should I roll the dough?
About 1/4 inch thick is ideal for a good balance of dough and filling.

10 Can I dust the cookies with powdered sugar?
Yes, it adds a lovely finishing touch and a bit of extra sweetness.

Conclusion

Italian Nut Roll Cookies bring a little slice of tradition and a whole lot of flavor to your kitchen. They’re perfect for cozy afternoons, festive gatherings, or whenever you want a cookie that feels special. With their flaky texture and rich, nutty filling, these cookies are sure to become a beloved classic in your baking rotation. So grab your rolling pin, get those nuts toasting, and prepare to impress your friends and family with this delightful treat!

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