Italian Nut Roll Cookies Recipe
Introduction
Italian Nut Roll Cookies are a delightful treat combining tender cookie dough with a rich, nutty filling. Perfect for holidays or any special occasion, these cookies offer a satisfying balance of texture and flavor.
Ingredients
- Cookie dough
- Nut filling
- Sugar
Instructions
- Step 1: Roll out the cookie dough into a thin sheet and spread the nut filling evenly over the surface.
- Step 2: Carefully roll the dough into a log shape, then slice into individual cookies.
- Step 3: Place the cookies on a baking sheet and bake until they are set and lightly golden.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, toast the nuts in the filling before using to enhance their aroma.
- Try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or a splash of vanilla extract to the nut filling for a warm twist.
- Use powdered sugar dusting on cooled cookies for a festive look.
Storage
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They can also be frozen for longer storage. To enjoy, allow frozen cookies to thaw at room temperature before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use any type of nuts in the filling?
Yes, you can use walnuts, pecans, almonds, or a mix depending on your preference. Toasting the nuts enhances their flavor.
How can I tell when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies should be set and lightly golden around the edges. Avoid overbaking to keep them tender.
PrintItalian Nut Roll Cookies Recipe
Italian Nut Roll Cookies are a delightful treat featuring a tender, buttery dough rolled around a sweet and nutty filling. This traditional Italian pastry combines a soft, slightly sweet cookie base with a rich walnut filling, baked to golden perfection for a perfect balance of textures and flavors, ideal for festive occasions or a charming dessert.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Nut Filling
- 2 cups finely chopped walnuts
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and sugar until smooth and creamy. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing just until a soft dough forms. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Make the Nut Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the finely chopped walnuts, sugar, melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon if using. Stir well to form a spreadable filling.
- Roll and Fill the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll the chilled dough into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Spread the nut filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border along the edges to seal.
- Shape the Rolls: Starting from one long side, tightly roll the dough into a log shape. Pinch the edges to seal and slice the roll into ½-inch thick circular cookies.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the cookies are set.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve as a delightful dessert or snack.
Notes
- You can substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
- For a richer dough, add a tablespoon of sour cream or yogurt.
- Chilling the dough is crucial to make rolling easier and prevent cracking.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Optionally dust cookies with powdered sugar for extra sweetness before serving.
Keywords: Italian Nut Roll Cookies, walnut cookies, Italian desserts, nut-filled cookies, holiday cookies
