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A plate of golden-brown nut roll cookies dusted with powdered sugar.

Italian Nut Roll Cookies: Traditional Recipe, Expert Tips & Variations


  • Author: Achraf Selmouni
  • 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

1️⃣ Prepare the Dough
  • 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

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