Irresistible Italian Nut Roll Cookies Recipe to Savor

Italian Nut Roll Cookies are the kind of treats that make your taste buds dance like no one’s watching. Imagine biting into a buttery, flaky pastry filled with a sweet, nutty mixture that embraces your senses like a warm hug. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, wrapping you in a comforting embrace that promises homemade goodness.

Growing up, my grandmother would whip up these delectable Italian Nut Roll Cookies during the holidays, filling our home with laughter and delightful scents. Each bite transported me back to cozy family gatherings where we shared stories and savored every crumb. These cookies are perfect for festive occasions or just as an everyday indulgence when you need a little sweetness in your life.

Ingredients for Italian Nut Roll Cookies

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of our cookie dough; choose unbleached flour for better flavor.

• Unsalted Butter: Use cold butter for a flaky texture; it melts beautifully in the oven.

• Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the dough; feel free to reduce it if you’re not into ultra-sweet treats.

• Eggs: Two large eggs bind everything together while adding richness to the dough.

• Chopped Nuts (Walnuts or Pecans): These provide the signature nutty filling; toast them slightly for added flavor.

• Cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth to the filling; just a sprinkle can elevate the flavors.

For the Glaze:

• Powdered Sugar: This is essential for our smooth glaze; sifting it ensures no lumps.

• Milk: Just a splash helps create that glossy finish on top of our cookies.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Italian Nut Roll Cookies

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine flour and sugar. Cut in cold butter until crumbly, resembling coarse crumbs. Add eggs one at a time, mixing until just combined.

Step 2: Chill

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for about one hour. This step is crucial as it helps firm up the dough so it’s easier to roll out.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In another bowl, mix chopped nuts with sugar and cinnamon until evenly blended. This will be our heavenly filling that adds crunch and sweetness.

Step 4: Roll It Out

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a floured surface, roll out chilled dough into rectangles approximately 1/4-inch thick. Spread an even layer of the nut filling across each rectangle.

Step 5: Roll and Slice

Carefully roll each rectangle tightly from one short end to another, forming logs. Slice each log into half-inch thick pieces and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 6: Bake and Glaze

Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on top. While they cool slightly, whisk together powdered sugar and milk until smooth for glazing.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with glaze for the perfect finishing touch! Enjoy your Italian Nut Roll Cookies with coffee or tea while sharing stories with friends—just like Grandma used to do!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing the dough first; let it chill while you whip up the nut filling. Once both components are ready, roll out the dough, fill it generously, and bake until golden brown. This sequence ensures everything comes together beautifully.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap nuts in the filling; walnuts, pecans, or even hazelnuts can add a unique twist. You could also sprinkle some cinnamon or vanilla for an extra flavor boost. Customizing these cookies makes them uniquely yours!

Storing & Reheating

Store your Italian Nut Roll Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to savor them later, freeze them individually wrapped and thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

The first time I made these cookies for my family, they vanished faster than I could say “Mangia!” The joy on their faces was priceless, and now it’s my go-to recipe for every family gathering.

FAQs:

What are Italian Nut Roll Cookies?

Italian Nut Roll Cookies are delightful pastries made of a tender dough filled with a rich mixture of nuts, sugar, and spices. These cookies offer a unique blend of flavors and textures that make them perfect for any occasion. Originating from Italy, they often include ingredients like walnuts or hazelnuts, which contribute to their signature taste. Enjoy these cookies with coffee or as a sweet treat during holidays and family gatherings.

How do you store Italian Nut Roll Cookies?

To keep your Italian Nut Roll Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain their texture and flavor for up to a week. If you wish to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Place the cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. You can thaw them at room temperature whenever you’re ready to enjoy some more.

Can I customize the filling for Italian Nut Roll Cookies?

Absolutely! While traditional Italian Nut Roll Cookies use nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts, feel free to experiment with other options. You can use almonds, pistachios, or even chocolate chips for a different flavor profile. Adding spices like cinnamon or vanilla can also elevate the taste. Customizing the filling allows you to tailor these cookies to your preferences while still enjoying their delightful texture.

Are Italian Nut Roll Cookies suitable for special diets?

Italian Nut Roll Cookies can be adapted for special diets with some modifications. For gluten-free options, substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour blends. Additionally, for vegan variations, consider using plant-based butter and egg replacements like flaxseed meal or applesauce in the dough. However, always check individual ingredient labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs while maintaining their delicious taste.

Conclusion for Italian Nut Roll Cookies:

In summary, Italian Nut Roll Cookies are a delectable treat that showcases rich flavors and textures through nut-filled dough. By following the recipe and tips provided, you can create these delightful cookies at home. Whether enjoyed during holidays or shared with loved ones, these cookies make every moment special. Embrace your creativity by customizing fillings and savoring the joy of baking authentic Italian sweets right in your kitchen!

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Italian Nut Roll Cookies

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Italian Nut Roll Cookies are a beloved treat featuring a buttery pastry wrapped around a sweet, nutty filling. These cookies, perfect for festive occasions or cozy family gatherings, deliver a delightful crunch and rich flavor in every bite. With their golden-brown crust and heavenly glaze, they are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (toasted)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
• 2 tbsp milk (for glaze)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix flour and sugar. Cut in cold butter until crumbly. Add eggs one at a time until just combined.
2. Wrap dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for an hour to firm up.
3. In another bowl, mix nuts, sugar, and cinnamon for the filling.
4. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out chilled dough into rectangles about 1/4-inch thick; spread nut filling evenly.
5. Roll each rectangle tightly into logs and slice into half-inch pieces on a lined baking sheet.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Cool slightly before glazing with a mixture of powdered sugar and milk.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 45mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: Feel free to customize the nut filling with almonds or chocolate chips for added variety. Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze them for longer storage.