SPREAD LOVE

Italian Nut Roll Cookies

Name: Italian Nut Roll Cookies
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; ½ cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ½ tsp salt; 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts; ¾ cup brown sugar, packed; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted; 1 tbsp milk; Powdered sugar, for dusting

Are you ready to embark on a delightful journey through the world of Italian pastries? Italian Nut Roll Cookies, known for their rich flavors and nutty filling, are a classic treat that brings warmth and comfort to any gathering. These cookies aren’t just dazzling to the eye; they deliver a delightful crunch and a burst of sweetness that make them perfect for sharing—or, let’s be honest, for keeping all to yourself.

As you gather your ingredients, think about the memories you can create with every bite. The aroma of butter and sugar will fill your kitchen, stirring feelings of nostalgia and joy. Let’s dive into why these cookies are a must-make and how you can whip them up in no time.

Why Make This Recipe

These cookies bring a wonderful crunch from the nuts paired with a tender, buttery dough.
They’re versatile enough for any occasion, be it a festive holiday gathering or a cozy family dinner.
The satisfaction of creating these cookies at home adds a level of joy that store-bought treats simply can’t match.

If you’re looking for a sweet addition to your cookie repertoire, these Italian Nut Roll Cookies will absolutely do the trick. They embody the flavors of tradition while inviting you to make your own unique memories.

Making Italian Nut Roll Cookies at Home

Creating Italian Nut Roll Cookies is not just an act of baking—it’s an experience filled with love and care that ultimately reflects in the final product. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your cookies turn out delicious every time.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Before you start mixing, make sure you have all your ingredients set out. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp salt
1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
¾ cup brown sugar, packed
1 tsp ground cinnamon
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
1 tbsp milk
Powdered sugar, for dusting

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Begin by combining your softened butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl. Using an electric mixer, cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This is crucial as it incorporates air into the dough, making your cookies tender and airy.

Next, add the eggs—beaten—along with the vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined.

Gradually sift in the flour and sprinkle in the salt. Continue to mix until a soft dough forms. At this stage, the dough might seem a little sticky, but that’s perfectly fine.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

To make the dough easier to handle, divide it into two disks. Wrap each disk in plastic wrap and place them in the refrigerator for at least one hour. Chilling is essential as it helps to solidify the butter and makes rolling out the dough into a uniform thickness way easier.

Step 4: Prepare the Nut Filling

While the dough is chilling, let’s turn our attention to the delectable nut filling. In a small bowl, combine your choice of chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts work wonders), packed brown sugar, ground cinnamon, melted butter, and milk. Stir it all together until every morsel is combined, and set it aside for later.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

Once your dough has chilled, sprinkle a little flour on your work surface and roll out one disk into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Be generous with your flour so that the dough doesn’t stick. It’s always better to have a bit more flour than to have frustration when rolling!

Step 6: Assemble the Cookies

Now comes the fun part—spreading the nut filling. Using a spatula, spread half of the nut mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough, but remember to leave a small border around the edges for sealing.

Next, start rolling the dough tightly from one of the long sides to form a log. Don’t be afraid to apply a little pressure as you roll; a tight log will help yield more uniform cookies when sliced.

Step 7: Slice and Bake

Once your log is formed, use a sharp knife to slice it into ¾-inch thick cookies. Place the cookies cut-side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat the process with the second dough disk.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake your cookies for 12–15 minutes or until the edges are nice and golden.

Step 8: Finishing Touches

After baking, allow your cookies to cool slightly before dusting them with powdered sugar. The sugar will add a beautiful touch, making these cookies look as good as they taste.

Keeping Italian Nut Roll Cookies Fresh

Storing your Italian Nut Roll Cookies properly can keep them fresh and delightful for days. Follow these guidelines to maintain their quality:

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days at 40°F to keep the cookies moist and fresh.
Freeze: If you want to prolong their life, freeze the cookies for up to 2 months.

When you’re ready to indulge, simply let them come to room temperature after taking them out of the freezer, and treat yourself!

Best Ways to Serve Italian Nut Roll Cookies

Serving your Italian Nut Roll Cookies can be just as fun as making them. Here are a few delightful ideas to consider:

Serve them as part of a dessert platter alongside espresso or a rich cup of coffee.
Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a scrumptious sundae twist.
Dust with additional powdered sugar before adding to a festive cookie box for gifting.
Create a lighthearted cookie swap gathering, where friends can sample each other’s baked goods while enjoying the cozy atmosphere.

Each of these suggestions can elevate your cookie experience, whether you’re enjoying them alone or hosting a gathering.

Tips to Make Italian Nut Roll Cookies

Here are some handy tips to elevate your cookie-making game:

Make sure your butter is truly softened; this helps to create a smooth dough.
Chill your dough long enough—don’t rush this step for best results.
If the dough is too sticky when rolling out, sprinkle more flour on the surface.
For a more decadent flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg to the nut filling.

Remember, baking is as much about comfort and experimentation as it is about precision!

Variations or Substitutions

Feel free to add your personal touch to these Italian Nut Roll Cookies. Here are a couple of ideas to inspire you:

Nut Alternatives: If you prefer a different nut, consider using almonds or hazelnuts for a unique flavor.
Different Fillings: For those who may not be keen on nuts, try a chocolate filling instead. Simply melt your favorite chocolate and spread it similarly over the rolled dough.

You have the freedom to create versions that cater to your preferences while keeping the essence of these delightful cookies intact.

FAQs about Italian Nut Roll Cookies

Q: Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead and chill it or even bake them and store. Just be sure to dust with powdered sugar right before serving.

Q: How do I store leftover cookies?
A: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or keep them in the fridge for longer freshness.

Q: Can I add dried fruits to the filling?
A: Certainly! Chopped dried fruits like cherries or raisins can add an extra sweet dimension to the filling. Just be mindful to balance the added sweetness with the existing sugar content.

Q: How can I make the cookies less sweet?

Consider reducing the sugar in the filling slightly.
Use unsweetened cocoa powder instead of chocolate to provide a different flavor without added sugar.

Creating your own Italian Nut Roll Cookies is a project that not only satisfies your sweet cravings but also connects you to time-honored traditions. As you gather loved ones around to savor these treats, you’ll be reminded of the joy that baking brings, donning an essence of togetherness with every bite. So roll up your sleeves and dive into this enchanting cookie-making adventure; you’re bound to find not only delicious cookies but also delightful moments along the way.