Traditional Italian Nut Roll Cookies Recipe

Italian Nut Roll Cookies: A Timeless Classic

Italian Nut Roll Cookies are a testament to the beauty of tradition and indulgence. These pastries combine a buttery, flaky crust with a sweet, nutty filling, making them perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you crave a taste of nostalgia. Their versatility and rich flavor profile ensure they remain a favorite across generations.

For another comforting Italian-inspired dish, explore the Italian Stromboli Recipe, which brings the essence of Italian baking to your table.

What Makes Italian Nut Roll Cookies Special?

These cookies hold a unique place in the world of desserts:

Traditional Appeal: Rooted in Italian heritage, they showcase a harmonious balance of sweet and savory.
Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for cookie swaps, holiday parties, or gifting.
Customizable: Variations with different nuts or fillings let you make them your own.

For a sweet pairing, consider these Raspberry Cheesecake Brownie Bites, which complement the nutty richness beautifully.

Ingredients for Italian Nut Roll Cookies

For the Dough:

4 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 pound butter, softened

3 teaspoons baking powder
½ pint sour cream
4 large egg yolks

1 ½ teaspoons granulated sugar

For the Filling:

¾ pound walnuts, finely ground
1 cup granulated sugar

3 large egg whites, divided
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ½ teaspoons honey

For Rolling and Dusting:

Powdered sugar mixed with flour (for rolling dough)
Additional powdered sugar for coating the finished cookies

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

Beat butter and sugar until creamy.

Add egg yolks and mix well.
Gradually incorporate flour, baking powder, and sour cream until a soft dough forms.
Refrigerate overnight for easier handling.

2. Prepare the Filling

Beat egg whites until frothy, then add vanilla and honey.
In a separate bowl, combine walnuts and sugar.
Mix the egg white mixture with the walnut mixture to form a paste.

Refrigerate overnight for better consistency.

3. Shape the Cookies

Roll the dough thinly on a surface dusted with powdered sugar and flour.
Cut into 3-inch squares.

Place ½ teaspoon of filling in the center of each square.
Fold opposite corners to enclose the filling, sealing the edges tightly.

4. Bake

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Place cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Brush with the reserved egg white for a glossy finish.
Bake for 12–15 minutes or until lightly golden.

5. Cool and Coat

Let cookies cool on a wire rack.
Roll in powdered sugar for a festive finish.

Creative Variations

Chocolate Nut Rolls: Add a teaspoon of cocoa powder to the filling for a richer flavor.

Pecan Substitute: Swap walnuts for pecans for a slightly sweeter profile.
Citrus Twist: Incorporate orange or lemon zest into the dough for a fresh, zesty note.

For more creative baking ideas, check out the Cinnamon Roll Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze.

Tips for Success

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter is softened for smooth mixing.
Thin Dough: Roll the dough thin for a flaky, delicate crust.
Avoid Overfilling: Too much filling can cause the cookies to open during baking.

FAQs About Italian Nut Roll Cookies

1. Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, freeze them in a single layer before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.

2. What’s the best way to grind nuts?

Use a food processor to achieve a fine, consistent texture.

3. Can I use store-bought pastry dough?

While convenient, homemade dough provides a richer flavor and better texture.

4. Are there gluten-free options?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix.

Nutritional Information

Each cookie (approximately 40g) contains:

Calories: 150

Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 2g

Internal Linking Opportunities

For a holiday baking alternative, try these Easy Apple Cheesecake Tacos.
Discover another Italian favorite with this Italian Stromboli Recipe.
Sweeten your dessert table further with Raspberry Cheesecake Brownie Bites.

Conclusion

Italian Nut Roll Cookies are more than just a dessert—they’re a celebration of tradition, flavor, and artistry. Whether served at a festive gathering or enjoyed with a warm cup of coffee, these cookies offer a timeless indulgence. Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share the joy with loved ones!