Few things evoke the warmth of home baking like the delicate, nutty sweetness of Italian Nut Roll Cookies. These classic treats have been a staple in Italian-American households for generations, often making an appearance at Christmas, Easter, and family gatherings. The combination of buttery, flaky pastry wrapped around a rich walnut and cinnamon filling creates a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
While they may look intricate, making these cookies is simpler than it seems. This guide breaks down the process into easy-to-follow steps, complete with ingredient variations, troubleshooting tips, and expert baking advice. Whether you’re a first-time baker or a seasoned pro, you’ll learn everything needed to perfect these Italian favorites.
What Makes Italian Nut Roll Cookies Special?
Italian Nut Roll Cookies stand out for their buttery dough, sweet nutty filling, and light, flaky texture**. They’re often compared to rugelach or Hungarian nut rolls but have a distinct richness from the cream cheese-based dough. What makes them unique?
- Flaky & Buttery Dough: The secret to these cookies is the dough—made with cream cheese and butter for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Rich Walnut Filling: The finely chopped walnuts are mixed with honey, cinnamon, and sugar for a perfect balance of sweetness and spice.
- Traditional Yet Customizable: While the classic version uses walnuts, many bakers experiment with pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts.
These cookies are not just about flavor; they bring a sense of tradition and nostalgia, passed down through generations.
Ingredients and Instructions
Before we start baking, let’s go over what you’ll need. Having your ingredients measured and prepared in advance makes the process smoother.
Ingredients List
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 ½ cups | Sifted for a light texture |
| Butter | 1 cup | Softened |
| Cream cheese | 8 oz | Room temperature |
| Sugar | ½ cup | Granulated |
| Eggs | 2 | Room temperature |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | Pure extract preferred |
| Walnuts, finely chopped | 2 cups | Toasted for richer flavor |
| Cinnamon | 1 tsp | Optional but recommended |
| Honey | 2 tbsp | Enhances the nutty filling |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s break the process into easy, manageable steps to ensure success.
1. Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, cream cheese, and sugar until fluffy. This step is crucial because well-mixed fats create the perfect tender texture. Add in the eggs and vanilla, then mix again until smooth.
Gradually incorporate the flour, stirring gently until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the dough tough. The texture should be soft but not sticky.
Divide the dough into two equal portions, shape them into disks, and wrap them in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll.
2. Make the Filling
While the dough chills, prepare the nut filling. In a small bowl, combine the chopped walnuts, cinnamon, and honey. Stir until the mixture is well coated.
3. Roll Out the Dough
Remove one portion of dough from the refrigerator and place it on a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a 12×8-inch rectangle, about ⅛-inch thick.
4. Spread the Nut Filling
Evenly distribute half of the walnut filling over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. This prevents the filling from oozing out during baking.
5. Roll & Slice
Starting from the long edge, roll the dough into a tight log. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 1-inch pieces.
6. Bake to Perfection
Place the slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Cool and Serve
Let the cookies cool on a wire rack before dusting them with powdered sugar.
Pro Baking Tips for Perfect Nut Roll Cookies
- Chill the Dough: This step is essential to prevent the dough from becoming too sticky to roll.
- Use a Sharp Knife: A dull knife will press down on the dough, distorting its shape.
- Evenly Distribute the Filling: Ensure the walnut mixture is spread evenly to maintain consistent flavors.
- Don’t Overbake: Bake just until golden brown to keep the cookies soft and delicate.
FAQs – Answering Common Questions
Can I cook chicken and shrimp together?
Yes! Chicken and shrimp can be cooked together, but it’s best to cook the chicken first as it takes longer to cook than shrimp.
Why put cornstarch on shrimp?
Cornstarch gives shrimp a crispy texture when stir-fried or deep-fried.
Should you marinate chicken before frying?
Yes, marinating chicken before frying enhances flavor and tenderness.
Can you cook raw chicken and shrimp in the same pan?
Yes, but shrimp cooks quickly, so add it later in the cooking process to avoid overcooking.
For another unique cookie recipe, try our Rice Krispie Chocolate Chip Cookies. They combine crunch and chewiness in one bite!
Looking for another nutty dessert? Check out our Easy Pecan Pie Dump Cake, which is packed with rich pecan flavor.
Print
Italian Nut Roll Cookies: Traditional Recipe, Expert Tips & Variations
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
Description
Make authentic Italian Nut Roll Cookies at home! Follow our foolproof recipe with step-by-step instructions and expert baking advice.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour – 2 ½ cups (sifted for a light texture)
- Butter – 1 cup (softened)
- Cream cheese – 8 oz (room temperature)
- Sugar – ½ cup (granulated)
- Eggs – 2 (room temperature)
- Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon (pure extract preferred)
- Walnuts – 2 cups (finely chopped and toasted for a richer flavor)
- Cinnamon – 1 teaspoon (optional but recommended)
- Honey – 2 tablespoons (enhances the nutty filling)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter, cream cheese, and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- Gradually incorporate flour, stirring gently until a soft dough forms.
- Divide dough into two equal portions, shape into disks, and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least one hour.
2️⃣ Make the Nut Filling
- In a small bowl, combine chopped walnuts, cinnamon, and honey. Mix well to coat.
3️⃣ Roll Out the Dough
- Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out one portion of the dough into a 12×8-inch rectangle, about ⅛-inch thick.
4️⃣ Spread the Filling
- Evenly distribute half of the walnut filling over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
5️⃣ Roll & Slice
- Carefully roll the dough tightly into a log from the long edge.
- Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 1-inch pieces.
6️⃣ Bake the Cookies
- Place slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
7️⃣ Cool & Serve
- Let cookies cool on a wire rack, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
- For a crispier cookie: Bake an additional 2-3 minutes.
- For a richer filling: Add ½ teaspoon of orange zest for a citrusy twist.
- For extra sweetness: Drizzle with a light honey glaze after baking.
- Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 3g
Keywords: Italian nut roll cookies, traditional Italian cookies, nut-filled cookies, Italian Christmas cookies, homemade nut roll, walnut-filled cookies, flaky pastry cookies, holiday baking recipes, classic Italian desserts, cream cheese dough cookies, cinnamon walnut cookies, easy Italian cookie recipe, authentic Italian pastry, festive cookie recipes, sweet nut rolls.
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