Italian Nut Roll Cookies: A Timeless Family Favorite

Few things capture the warmth of home baking like Italian Nut Roll Cookies. These rich, buttery pastries wrapped around a sweet, nutty filling have been a beloved tradition in Italian families for generations. Whether served during holidays, weddings, or Sunday gatherings, these cookies offer a perfect balance of tender pastry and crunchy goodness that’s simply irresistible.

For those who cherish traditional Italian baking, you’ll also love Taste of Home’s collection of authentic Italian cookie recipes, a treasure trove of sweet treats that evoke the spirit of Italy.

Nut rolls are popular across various cultures, but the Italian version stands out for its flaky dough and rich filling. Saveur Magazine’s guide to classic Italian pastries provides more insight into the artistry behind these delightful creations.

Why You’ll Love Italian Nut Roll Cookies

There are so many reasons to fall in love with Italian Nut Roll Cookies:

Classic flavor: Buttery dough and sweet nutty filling create an unforgettable taste.
Perfect texture: A tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookie with a satisfying crunch.
Festive favorite: A must-have for Christmas, Easter, weddings, and family reunions.
Customizable: Easy to adapt with different nuts or sweeteners.
Great for gifting: These cookies store well and make lovely homemade presents.

Ingredients for Authentic Italian Nut Roll Cookies

Gather these key ingredients to create your perfect batch:

For the Dough:

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

2 cups finely chopped mixed nuts (walnuts, almonds, pecans)
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
2–3 tablespoons milk (for moistening the filling)

For Finishing:

Powdered sugar for dusting

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until a soft dough forms.
Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

2. Make the Nut Filling

Combine the chopped nuts, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
Stir in just enough milk to make the mixture moist and spreadable, but not runny.

3. Assemble the Nut Rolls

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
On a floured surface, roll out one portion of dough into a rectangle (about ¼ inch thick).
Spread half of the nut mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
Roll the dough jelly-roll style, starting from the long side, and place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Repeat with the second portion of dough.

4. Bake

Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the rolls are lightly golden.
Let them cool slightly on the pan before transferring to a wire rack.

5. Finish

Once cooled, dust generously with powdered sugar.
Slice into 1-inch cookies and serve!

Tips for Success

Perfect your Italian Nut Roll Cookies with these helpful tips:

Use room-temperature butter: Helps create a light, tender dough.
Chill the dough: Makes it easier to roll out without sticking.
Don’t overfill: Too much filling can cause leaks during baking.
Seal edges well: Pinch seams gently to prevent the rolls from opening.
Slice with a serrated knife: This ensures clean, neat slices without crushing the rolls.

Flavor Variations

Get creative with your nut rolls by trying these delicious variations:

1. Chocolate Nut Roll

Add mini chocolate chips or a drizzle of melted chocolate over the filling.

2. Citrus Nut Roll

Mix orange or lemon zest into the dough for a refreshing twist.

3. Maple Walnut Roll

Replace some sugar with maple syrup for a deeper, richer sweetness.

4. Pistachio Nut Roll

Use finely chopped pistachios and a touch of cardamom for a unique flavor.

5. Honey Almond Roll

Replace the milk with honey for a naturally sweetened filling.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These Italian Nut Roll Cookies are ideal for preparing ahead of time:

Make-Ahead

Prepare and refrigerate the dough up to 2 days before baking.
Nut filling can also be made and stored in the fridge.

Storage

Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, freeze the baked rolls (before slicing) for up to 3 months. Thaw, dust with powdered sugar, and slice before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Steer clear of these common pitfalls:

Dough too warm: Chill the dough thoroughly to prevent sticky messes.
Overworking the dough: This can result in tough, dense cookies.
Filling too wet: The filling should be moist but not dripping; too much liquid will seep out during baking.
Rolling too loosely: Tight rolls help maintain shape and prevent spreading.

Serving Suggestions

Here’s how to make your nut roll cookies even more festive:

Holiday Cookie Platters: Combine with biscotti, pizzelles, and amaretti for an Italian-inspired spread.
Coffee Pairing: Serve with strong espresso or cappuccino.
Gift Boxes: Pack cookies in pretty tins lined with parchment paper for perfect edible gifts.

Garnish the cookie platter with a few cinnamon sticks and sprigs of rosemary for an extra festive touch!

FAQs About Italian Nut Roll Cookies

Can I use pre-made pie crust?

While it’s possible, traditional homemade dough gives a more authentic flavor and texture.

What’s the best nut combination?

A mix of walnuts and almonds is classic, but you can customize it with your favorites.

How thin should I roll the dough?

Aim for about ¼ inch thickness for a tender, flaky bite.

Can I add dried fruits to the filling?

Absolutely! Finely chopped dried cranberries, cherries, or apricots make delicious additions.

How do I prevent the rolls from cracking?

Make sure the dough is pliable but cool, and roll tightly without stretching the dough too thin.

Final Thoughts: A Sweet Slice of Italian Tradition

Italian Nut Roll Cookies are more than just a treat — they’re a slice of heritage, a cozy hug from the past, and a reminder of the beauty of homemade baking. With their delicate, flaky dough and sweet, crunchy filling, these cookies embody everything we love about traditional Italian desserts.

Whether you bake them for holidays, special occasions, or simply because you crave something wonderful, these nut rolls promise to fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your heart with warmth.

Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and experience the joy of making — and eating — a batch of these incredible cookies.

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