Perfect Italian Nut Roll Cookies Recipe Easy to Make

Introduction

There’s something so magical about the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the kitchen, isn’t there? The first time I made these Italian nut roll cookies, I felt like I had been transported straight to a cozy Italian bakery. The buttery dough and sweet, nutty filling create a flavor that’s truly irresistible. These cookies remind me of the holidays spent with family, where the kitchen was filled with laughter, flour-dusted countertops, and the promise of delicious treats.

If you’ve ever tried Italian nut roll cookies, you know they’re a delightful combination of flaky pastry and rich, aromatic nutty filling. They’re perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying with a cup of coffee on a chilly afternoon. And don’t let the fancy name fool you—this recipe is surprisingly simple to make at home. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, you’re going to love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Don’t fret about complicated techniques—this recipe breaks it down step by step for success every time.
• Simple Ingredients: Everything you need is likely already in your pantry, and the nuts can be tailored to your preference.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These cookies are ideal for holiday gatherings, bridal showers, or just as a sweet treat to brighten your day.
• Kid-Friendly: Fun to make with little ones, especially when it comes to rolling the dough and sprinkling the sugar on top!
• Deliciously Unique: The combination of flaky pastry and creamy, nutty filling is unlike any other cookie you’ve tried. It’s a little piece of Italy in every bite!

What sets this recipe apart is the balance between the buttery, tender dough and the rich filling. Many variations exist, but this one uses a touch of cinnamon and vanilla, creating a warm and comforting depth of flavor. Trust me, one bite of these cookies, and you’ll be transported to a cozy café in Rome. They’re that good!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to create a traditional Italian treat. Here’s what you’ll need:

• For the Dough:
  • 2 ½ cups (310g) all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup (120ml) sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the Filling:
  • 1 cup (120g) finely chopped walnuts
  • ½ cup (50g) brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the Topping:
  • Powdered sugar for dusting

If you’re missing an ingredient, don’t worry! You can substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt, or swap walnuts for pecans or almonds. These cookies are flexible, so customize them to your liking.

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Knife or pastry cutter
• Cooling rack

If you don’t have a rolling pin, a clean wine bottle works just as well! For budget-friendly options, your local dollar store often carries affordable baking tools.

Preparation Method

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Beat in the egg, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until a soft dough forms. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
2. Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, mix the finely chopped walnuts, brown sugar, cinnamon, milk, and vanilla extract until it forms a thick, spreadable paste. Set aside.
3. Roll Out the Dough: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Divide the chilled dough into two equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick.
4. Spread and Roll: Spread half of the filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Carefully roll the dough into a tight log, starting from the longer edge. Repeat with the second portion of dough and filling.
5. Slice and Bake: Using a sharp knife, slice each log into 1-inch thick pieces and place them on the prepared baking sheet, cut side down. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown.
6. Cool and Dust: Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack before dusting generously with powdered sugar.

These cookies should be golden, with the filling bubbling slightly and the edges crisp. If your dough cracks while rolling, it’s okay—just pinch it back together gently.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some insider tips to ensure your Italian nut roll cookies turn out perfectly:

• Chill the Dough: Make sure to refrigerate the dough for at least an hour before rolling. This helps it firm up and makes it much easier to handle.
• Roll Evenly: Try to get the dough to a consistent thickness to ensure even baking. A silicone rolling mat can help!
• Don’t Overfill: Resist the temptation to overload the filling, as too much can cause the cookies to burst open during baking.
• Seal the Edges: Pinch the edges of the dough when rolling to prevent leakage.
• Watch the Oven: Keep an eye on the cookies during baking. They can go from golden to overdone quickly, so set a timer!

If you’re new to working with rolled dough, don’t worry if your first attempts aren’t perfect. It’s all part of the fun!

Variations & Adaptations

One of the best parts of this recipe is how versatile it is. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

• Dietary Substitutions: Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version or swap the sour cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut yogurt for a dairy-free option.
• Seasonal Twists: Add dried cranberries or chopped dates to the nut filling for a festive holiday variation.
• Flavor Boost: For a slightly more indulgent treat, drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies after they’ve cooled.
• Different Nuts: Try pecans, hazelnuts, or even pistachios for a unique flavor profile.
• Personal Touch: Once, I added a pinch of orange zest to the filling—it gave the cookies a bright, citrusy lift!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These cookies are best served slightly warm or at room temperature. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for an unbeatable afternoon pick-me-up. If you’re serving them at a party, arrange them on a decorative platter and sprinkle extra powdered sugar just before serving for that bakery-style look.

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They also freeze beautifully—just place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes, or enjoy them straight from the freezer (they thaw quickly!).

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Each cookie is estimated to contain:

• Calories: 120
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 6g
• Sugar: 8g

The walnuts in this recipe are packed with heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. Plus, the use of sour cream gives the dough a rich texture without overloading on butter. It’s a treat you can feel good about enjoying in moderation!

Conclusion

Italian nut roll cookies are the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug. They’re simple to make, easy to customize, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a special occasion, or just because, these cookies are sure to become a new favorite in your household.

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear from you! Share your thoughts in the comments below or tag me on social media with your creations. Let’s make baking fun, stress-free, and full of love. Happy baking!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of nut?

Absolutely! Pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts are great alternatives. Just make sure they’re finely chopped.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! The dough can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to roll it out.

What if my dough cracks when rolling?

Don’t worry—just pinch the cracks back together gently, and the cookies will still bake beautifully.

Do I have to use powdered sugar on top?

No, but it does add a lovely finishing touch. If you prefer, you can skip it or use a light drizzle of icing instead.

Can I freeze the cookies after baking?

Yes, these cookies freeze wonderfully! Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw or reheat as needed.

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