Italian Nut Roll Cookies Recipe

If you adore treats that bring a warm, homey feeling with every bite, then Italian Nut Roll Cookies will quickly become your new obsession. These charming little delights combine a tender, buttery dough with a fragrant, sweet nut filling that whispers of cinnamon and brown sugar. Each cookie is a perfect balance of soft texture and rich, nutty flavor—making Italian Nut Roll Cookies a fantastic choice for everything from festive gatherings to a cozy afternoon with a cup of tea.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind Italian Nut Roll Cookies lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each item plays a crucial role in bringing the right texture, flavor, and tenderness to this irresistible cookie.

• All-purpose flour: Forms the soft and sturdy base of the dough that holds everything together beautifully.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and a melt-in-your-mouth quality, plus controls the dough’s softness.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough gently while helping it to brown perfectly.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients and bring moisture for a tender crumb.
• Sour cream: Makes the dough wonderfully moist and tender with a slight tang that balances the sweetness.
• Vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, aromatic note that enhances all the other flavors.
• Baking powder: Helps the cookies rise just enough for a light texture.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• Walnuts or pecans: Provide a toasty crunch with a rich, nutty flavor perfect for the filling.
• Brown sugar: Adds deep caramel sweetness and moistness to the filling.
• Cinnamon: Brings that cozy, warm spice that complements the nuts beautifully.

How to Make Italian Nut Roll Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by creaming the butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy—this is important for creating a tender dough. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to keep the texture smooth. Stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract, which together will add moisture and a wonderful depth of flavor.

Step 2: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture until a soft dough forms. Avoid over-mixing here to keep the dough tender. Once combined, wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and chill it for at least an hour, allowing the flavors to meld and making it easier to roll out later.

Step 3: Make the Filling

While the dough is chilling, prepare your filling by combining finely chopped walnuts or pecans, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. This aromatic blend will be the heart of your Italian Nut Roll Cookies, giving each bite that classic nutty sweetness and warm spice.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

After chilling, divide the dough into manageable portions to work with easily. On a floured surface, roll each portion into a thin rectangle—aim for an even thickness so your cookies bake uniformly. Flour under the rolling pin generously to prevent sticking, which will help maintain the gorgeous structure of your rolls.

Step 5: Add the Filling

Evenly spread your nut mixture over each rolled-out dough rectangle, reaching all the way to the edges. This ensures every slice of your Italian Nut Roll Cookies bursts with filling—there’s nothing better than that rich, cinnamon-sweet nut center.

Step 6: Roll and Slice

Carefully roll the dough tightly into a log, keeping the filling tucked nicely inside. Then, slice the rolls into individual cookie pieces. Pro tip: use a sharp knife and cut evenly to get perfectly shaped cookies that look as good as they taste.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the cookie slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Keep an eye on them as they bake to avoid over-browning, but trust that gentle heat will bring out that amazing nutty aroma soon enough.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, transfer your Italian Nut Roll Cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps them set perfectly, so the filling doesn’t spill out when you bite in. Enjoy them fresh or store as you wait to surprise others with these delightful treats.

How to Serve Italian Nut Roll Cookies

Garnishes

Present your Italian Nut Roll Cookies with a light dusting of powdered sugar for a festive touch. You can also drizzle a bit of honey or melted chocolate for a decadent twist that contrasts beautifully with the nutty filling.

Side Dishes

These cookies are a perfect companion to a hot cup of espresso or a creamy cappuccino, enhancing the full experience with their cinnamon and nut flavors. They also pair delightfully with a scoop of vanilla gelato, turning snack time into a mini celebration.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking the cookies in a rustic wooden box tied with twine for a charming gift. Or arrange them on a platter with assorted nuts and dried fruits around to create an inviting dessert spread that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover Italian Nut Roll Cookies at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This helps maintain their soft, tender texture while keeping the nut filling perfectly moist.

Freezing

These cookies freeze beautifully if you want to make a batch ahead of time. Wrap them securely in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating

To enjoy your frozen Italian Nut Roll Cookies at their best, simply thaw them at room temperature and warm gently in a low oven for 5 to 7 minutes. This freshens them up and revives that lovely baked aroma that will tempt you all over again.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts besides walnuts or pecans?

Absolutely! Hazelnuts or almonds can also make a delicious filling in Italian Nut Roll Cookies. Just chop them finely to keep the texture consistent and enjoy a slightly different but equally tasty treat.

Is it necessary to chill the dough?

Chilling is highly recommended as it makes the dough easier to roll out and helps to develop flavor. It also prevents the dough from spreading too much during baking, keeping your cookies perfectly shaped.

Can I add chocolate chips to the filling?

While traditional Italian Nut Roll Cookies don’t include chocolate chips, you can definitely mix some in for a fun twist. Chocolate pairs wonderfully with nuts and cinnamon, adding an extra layer of indulgence.

How thick should I roll the dough?

Aim for roughly 1/8 inch thickness when rolling out the dough. This ensures your cookies are thin enough to bake through evenly but still thick enough to hold a generous amount of filling.

What’s the best way to prevent the cookies from sticking to the baking sheet?

Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Both provide a non-stick surface that helps the cookies bake evenly and makes cleanup a breeze.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly comforting about baking Italian Nut Roll Cookies—the way the kitchen fills with their warm, inviting aroma and the final taste that feels like a hug in cookie form. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to brighten an ordinary day, these cookies always bring joy. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this classic recipe as much as I do!

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