Italian Nut Roll Cookies Recipe

If you’ve never experienced the delightful magic of Italian Nut Roll Cookies, you’re in for a real treat. These charming cookies blend a tender, buttery dough with a spiced, nutty filling that’s simply irresistible. Every bite offers a perfect harmony of texture and flavor that feels like a warm hug from an old friend. Trust me, these Italian Nut Roll Cookies are not just cookies; they’re a slice of tradition and a celebration of home-baked goodness that will quickly become your new favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, wholesome ingredients come together in this recipe to create Italian Nut Roll Cookies that are both comforting and full of character. Each component plays a vital role, from the rich butter that ensures a tender dough to the cinnamon-spiced nuts that bring warmth and crunch to every bite.

• All-purpose flour: The foundation of the dough, providing structure and that perfect crumb.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and creates a tender, flaky texture.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough just right without overpowering the filling.
• Large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add moisture.
• Sour cream: Keeps the dough soft and adds a subtle tanginess for depth of flavor.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall aroma and sweetness.
• Baking powder: Gives the dough a gentle lift for a light texture.
• Salt: Balances flavors and enhances sweetness.
• Walnuts or pecans: Finely chopped for that signature nutty crunch and earthy taste.
• Brown sugar: Adds a caramel-like sweetness to complement the nuts.
• Cinnamon: Infuses the filling with warm, cozy spice.

How to Make Italian Nut Roll Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Begin this delicious journey by creaming the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until they form a light, fluffy base. This aeration is key for a tender dough. Next, whisk in the eggs one at a time, allowing each to fully incorporate before adding the next. Then stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract to add moisture and a subtle depth of flavor.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agent so your cookies rise beautifully and have consistent flavor with just the right seasoning.

Step 3: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, folding gently until a soft dough begins to form. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps the end product tender and prevents toughness. Once combined, wrap the dough in plastic and chill it in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This resting period helps the dough to firm up, making it easier to roll out later.

Step 4: Prepare the Nut Filling

While the dough chills, prepare the flavorful filling by mixing your choice of finely chopped walnuts or pecans with brown sugar and ground cinnamon. This mixture will become the fragrant, sweet, and nutty heart of your Italian Nut Roll Cookies.

Step 5: Roll Out and Assemble

Divide the chilled dough into manageable portions, then roll each portion into a thin rectangle on a lightly floured surface. Spread a generous layer of the nut filling evenly over the dough, ensuring every bite will have that satisfying nutty crunch.

Step 6: Roll and Slice the Cookies

Carefully roll the dough up tightly into a log, sealing the edges as you go. Once rolled, slice the log into uniform pieces about half an inch thick, shaping your cookies into their iconic nut roll shape ready to bake.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place the sliced cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, giving each enough room to maintain its shape. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 20 minutes until the edges turn a lovely golden brown. This baking time ensures the cookies are cooked through but still soft and tender.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack so they set up perfectly and the flavors meld together. This finish gives you a cookie that’s delightfully crisp on the outside with a moist, nut-filled interior, sealing the experience of traditional Italian Nut Roll Cookies.

How to Serve Italian Nut Roll Cookies

Garnishes

Serving your Italian Nut Roll Cookies with a light dusting of powdered sugar instantly adds an elegant, festive touch and a hint of extra sweetness without overwhelming the nuts’ natural flavor. You might also try drizzling a thin line of melted chocolate on top for visual appeal and an extra layer of indulgence.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a steaming cup of coffee, tea, or even a glass of cold milk. Their rich nutty and spiced flavor beautifully complements hot beverages, making them an ideal treat for brunch or an afternoon pick-me-up.

Creative Ways to Present

For a rustic feel, serve the cookies on a wooden board alongside fresh fruits like grapes or figs. Alternatively, arrange them in a decorative tin for a gift that feels truly special. You can even sandwich a dollop of cream cheese frosting between two slices to elevate these classic Italian Nut Roll Cookies into a fancy dessert option!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Italian Nut Roll Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature where they will stay fresh for up to a week. This will preserve their tender texture and prevent the nuts from going stale, so you can enjoy them any time.

Freezing

Wrap the cookies tightly in plastic and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. When you want to savor their cozy, nutty goodness, simply thaw them at room temperature—easy and convenient for holiday baking or last-minute guests.

Reheating

If you prefer your Italian Nut Roll Cookies warm, pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. This gentle reheat restores their fresh-baked aroma and slightly softens the dough, making them taste as if they’ve just come out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I use different nuts in Italian Nut Roll Cookies?

Absolutely! While walnuts and pecans are classic, feel free to experiment with almonds, hazelnuts, or even a mix of your favorites to suit your taste and create a unique twist.

Is sour cream necessary in the dough?

Sour cream adds moisture and a subtle tang that brightens the dough, making it tender and flavorful, but you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a slightly different texture.

How thin should I roll the dough before filling?

Roll the dough into a thin rectangle about 1/8 inch thick. This allows the nut filling to shine while still having enough dough to hold the roll firmly without breaking.

Can I prepare the dough and filling ahead of time?

Yes! The dough can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours, and the filling can be made in advance and stored in the fridge, making your baking day easier and more enjoyable.

What if my sliced rolls lose shape during baking?

Make sure to roll the dough tightly and chill the sliced cookies briefly before baking; this helps them hold their shape better on the baking sheet.

Final Thoughts

Italian Nut Roll Cookies are a beautiful blend of tradition, flavor, and comfort that truly shine whether you’re baking for a holiday, a special occasion, or just because. Their rich, nutty filling wrapped in tender, buttery dough makes every bite feel like a celebration. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this recipe and create your own batch of these irresistible treats—you might find that they quickly become a cherished favorite in your baking repertoire.

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