Jump to Recipe Print RecipeStepping into my kitchen, I’m immediately enveloped by the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked Italian Nut Roll Cookies. These delightful treats, with their flaky texture and nut-studded centers, are a treasure from my culinary adventures. There’s something magical about rolling out dough and folding in a medley of chopped nuts that fills any gathering with cheer. What I love most about these cookies is their versatility; you can easily customize them to suit your taste, making them the perfect vegetarian holiday treat. Plus, they’re a breeze to whip up, meaning you’ll have more time to savor the moments with loved ones. So, are you ready to learn how to create these irresistible cookies that will leave everyone asking for seconds? Why Make Italian Nut Roll Cookies? Irresistible, Flaky Layers: Each bite of these cookies reveals perfectly flaky layers that are simply irresistible. Customizable Delight: You have the freedom to customize with your favorite nuts or add spices for a personal touch, making them uniquely yours! Time-Saving Treat: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies can be made in no time, perfect for busy bakers. Perfect for Gatherings: Serve them fresh alongside coffee or tea, and watch guests rave about your baking skills. Festive Atmosphere: The delightful aroma while baking fills your home with warmth, creating a cozy holiday vibe that everyone loves. Bring joy to your table with these delicious Italian Nut Roll Cookies, and if you need something to pair with your treats, check out my Bruschetta Dip Italian recipe for a savory twist! Italian Nut Roll Cookies Ingredients For the Dough All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for a suitable option. Unsalted Butter – Creates a tender, flaky texture; ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing. Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness; granulated sugar can be used for a different texture. Eggs – Provide moisture and bind the ingredients; room-temperature eggs yield the best results. Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor profile; use pure vanilla for an authentic taste. Milk – Assists in binding and adds moisture; consider an alternative non-dairy milk for a vegan option. For the Filling Chopped Nuts (Walnuts, Hazelnuts, Almonds) – The main filling that provides a nutty flavor; mix and match to create your ideal combination. Raisins or Chopped Dates – Optional ingredients that add sweetness and texture; include them for a delightful twist. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Italian Nut Roll Cookies Step 1: Prepare the Dough In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of powdered sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Gradually add in 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 large room-temperature eggs, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons of milk. Mix until a smooth dough forms, then cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Step 2: Make the Filling While the dough chills, prepare the filling by combining 2 cups of chopped nuts (like walnuts, hazelnuts, or almonds) in a mixing bowl. If desired, add 1/2 cup of raisins or chopped dates for extra sweetness and texture. Stir well to ensure the nuts and any additional fillers are evenly mixed. Set the bowl aside to let the flavors combine. Step 3: Roll Out the Dough After chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly flour your work surface. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and roll it out into a rectangle of about 1/8-inch thickness, using a rolling pin. Aim for a uniform thickness to ensure even baking. The dough should be pliable yet firm enough to hold the filling. Step 4: Add the Filling Sprinkle the prepared nut mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Gently press the filling into the dough with your hands to help it adhere. This ensures each bite of your Italian Nut Roll Cookies is packed with delicious flavors and a satisfying crunch. Step 5: Roll and Slice Starting from one end of the rectangle, carefully roll the dough tightly to encase the filling. Make sure the seam is on the bottom to keep the cookies from unraveling during baking. Using a sharp knife, slice the roll into 1-inch pieces to create individual cookies. Place the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Step 6: Bake Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they turn a lovely golden brown on the edges. Keep an eye on them as they bake, as oven temperatures can vary. Once baked, the Italian Nut Roll Cookies should be firm to the touch but still soft in the center. Step 7: Cool and Serve After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. For a lovely finishing touch, dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar before serving. These delightful Italian Nut Roll Cookies are now ready to be enjoyed! What to Serve with Italian Nut Roll Cookies Indulge in these delightful baked treats while creating a perfect spread of flavors for any gathering. Rich Hot Chocolate: The creamy texture of hot chocolate enhances the nutty sweetness of the cookies, making each bite a comforting experience. Pairing them together creates a cozy atmosphere that feels just like the holidays. Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing, fruity contrast to the rich cookies, balancing flavors beautifully and providing a burst of color to your table. Vanilla Ice Cream: Serving a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream alongside these cookies creates a delightful contrast between hot and cold, taking your dessert experience to new heights. It melts slightly over the cookies, creating a heavenly union. Warm Spiced Tea: The aromatic spices in warm tea echo the flavors in the cookies, adding a fragrant touch that makes for a perfect afternoon delight while keeping the chill at bay. Chocolate Drizzle: A drizzle of dark or milk chocolate elevates the presentation and adds an extra layer of sweetness, infusing richness to the nutty flavors of the Italian Nut Roll Cookies. Coffee or Espresso: The strong, bold flavors of coffee provide an excellent match to balance the sweetness of the cookies, making every bite an indulgent delight. Consider serving in decorative cups to enhance the experience. Caramel Sauce: A side of warm caramel sauce allows guests to dip their cookies, adding a decadent treat, and invites everyone to enjoy the delightful combination of flavors. Homemade Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream not only adds a touch of elegance to your dessert but also soothes the richness of the cookies, offering a delightful textural contrast. Storage Tips for Italian Nut Roll Cookies Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. This helps maintain their flaky texture and nutty flavor. Fridge: For longer freshness, you can refrigerate the cookies for up to two weeks, but ensure they are well wrapped to prevent them from drying out. Freezer: Freeze the Italian Nut Roll Cookies for up to three months. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separated by parchment paper to avoid sticking. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight, or heat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their delightful texture. Italian Nut Roll Cookies Variations Feel free to explore and personalize your Italian Nut Roll Cookies for a delightful twist on this classic treat! Nut Choice: Switch walnuts for pecans or almonds for a fresh flavor variation. The rich taste of pecans can bring an entirely new dimension to your cookies. Spice It Up: Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, comforting flavor. A sprinkle of these spices can transform your cookies into a fragrant holiday delight. Chocolate Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle melted chocolate on top for a decadent finish. The combination of chocolate and nuts will surely make your cookies stand out during festive gatherings. Fruit Added: Incorporate dried cranberries or apricots for a burst of sweetness. The tartness of cranberries complements the nuts beautifully, creating a balanced treat. Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delightful gluten-free version. This allows everyone to indulge in the joys of homemade cookies. Nut-Free: Replace nuts with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free option. These seeds still provide a delightful crunch while being safe for those with nut allergies. Cream Cheese Filling: Swap the nut filling for a cream cheese mixture mixed with powdered sugar and vanilla for a luscious creamy center. This creamy twist offers a delightful surprise with each bite. Additional Sugars: Experiment with brown sugar instead of powdered sugar for a deeper, caramel-like sweetness. Brown sugar will add moisture and enhance the chewy texture of your cookies. Enjoy these variations and let your creativity shine! And if you’re looking for more delightful recipes to accompany your cookies, try my Italian Cream Soda for a refreshing beverage. Expert Tips for Italian Nut Roll Cookies Chill the Dough: Always chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling; this makes it easier to work with and prevents sticking. Fine Nut Texture: Use a food processor to chop your nuts finely. A finer texture mixes better into the filling, elevating the overall flavor and balance of the cookies. Bake Space: Ensure you space your cookies well on the baking sheet to give them room to spread without merging while baking, which helps maintain their shape. Perfectly Dust: For a beautiful presentation, dust your cooled Italian Nut Roll Cookies with powdered sugar just before serving; this adds a lovely touch without making them overly sweet. Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to mix and match your nut choices or add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm holiday twist. It’s all about personalizing these delightful treats! Make Ahead Options These Italian Nut Roll Cookies are perfect for meal prep, making your holiday baking less hectic! You can prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance; simply follow the initial steps and refrigerate it well-wrapped. The filling can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 48 hours to keep those flavors nice and fresh. When you’re ready to bake, roll out the chilled dough, add the filling, and slice into pieces before baking as directed. This way, you’ll have delicious cookies that taste just as amazing as if made on the spot, saving you precious time without sacrificing quality! Italian Nut Roll Cookies Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right nuts for the filling? Absolutely! I recommend using a mix of walnuts, hazelnuts, and almonds for a delightful combination of flavors and textures. You should look for nuts that are fresh and free from any dark spots or off-putting smells. Consider toasting them lightly before chopping, as this enhances their flavor and adds a lovely crunch to every bite. What’s the best way to store Italian Nut Roll Cookies? The best way to keep your cookies fresh is to store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay delicious for up to one week. If you’re looking to keep them longer, refrigerating them can extend freshness to about two weeks, but be sure to wrap them well to prevent drying out. Can I freeze Italian Nut Roll Cookies? Yes, you can! To freeze your cookies, first, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container, layering with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be stored for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy a cookie, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes. What should I do if my dough is too sticky? If your dough feels excessively sticky, it’s usually due to the humidity or varying flour measurements. You can sprinkle a little extra flour while mixing to achieve the right consistency. Additionally, chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes makes it easier to handle and reduces stickiness, so make sure not to skip that step! Are Italian Nut Roll Cookies suitable for people with allergies? Keep in mind that these cookies contain gluten and nuts, which are common allergens. If you’re catering to someone with gluten sensitivity or a nut allergy, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and avoid the nuts entirely or use seeds instead. Always check labels for cross-contamination when using substitutes. Can I prepare the dough in advance? Absolutely! You can make the dough up to two days in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste of your Italian Nut Roll Cookies. Irresistibly Buttery Italian Nut Roll Cookies You'll Love Delight in the flaky texture and nut-studded centers of Italian Nut Roll Cookies, a versatile vegetarian treat perfect for gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsChilling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins Servings: 24 cookiesCourse: CookiesCuisine: ItalianCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Dough3 cups All-Purpose Flour Substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.1 cup Unsalted Butter Must be at room temperature for easy mixing.1 cup Powdered Sugar Granulated sugar can be used for a different texture.2 large Eggs Room-temperature yield the best results.1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Use pure vanilla for authentic taste.2 tablespoons Milk Consider non-dairy milk for a vegan option.For the Filling2 cups Chopped Nuts Mix walnuts, hazelnuts, and almonds for an ideal combination.1/2 cup Raisins or Chopped Dates Optional ingredients for added sweetness. Equipment Mixing bowlRolling PinBaking sheetParchment paperKnife Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of powdered sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Gradually add in 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 large room-temperature eggs, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons of milk. Mix until a smooth dough forms, then cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.While the dough chills, prepare the filling by combining 2 cups of chopped nuts in a mixing bowl. If desired, add 1/2 cup of raisins or chopped dates for extra sweetness and texture. Stir well to ensure the nuts and any additional fillers are evenly mixed. Set the bowl aside to let the flavors combine.After chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly flour your work surface. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and roll it out into a rectangle of about 1/8-inch thickness, using a rolling pin.Sprinkle the prepared nut mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Gently press the filling into the dough with your hands to help it adhere.Starting from one end of the rectangle, carefully roll the dough tightly to encase the filling. Make sure the seam is on the bottom to keep the cookies from unraveling during baking. Using a sharp knife, slice the roll into 1-inch pieces to create individual cookies. Place the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they turn a lovely golden brown on the edges.After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1cookieCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 2gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 50mgPotassium: 50mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 100IUCalcium: 10mgIron: 1mg NotesStore cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Refrigerate for up to two weeks or freeze for up to three months. Reheat in a preheated oven to restore texture. 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