Italian nut roll cookies are a delightful treat that takes me right back to my grandmother’s kitchen. The moment I smell that sweet dough baking, I’m transported to family gatherings filled with laughter and love. These cookies aren’t just a dessert; they’re a tradition that brings everyone together, especially during the holidays. The rich filling of ground nuts, sugar, and a hint of cinnamon adds a warmth that makes them irresistible. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll understand why they’re so cherished in Italian culture! I remember making them for the first time with my grandma, her wise hands guiding me as we rolled the dough and filled it with our favorite nuts. It was messy and fun, and the taste was worth every bit of chaos. Get ready to create some beautiful memories with these amazing Italian nut roll cookies!
Ingredients for Italian Nut Roll Cookies
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delicious Italian nut roll cookies! Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating that perfect blend of flavors and textures. Let’s get started!
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – This is the base of your dough, providing the structure.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – Make sure it’s nice and soft to combine smoothly into the dough.
- 1 cup powdered sugar – This adds sweetness and helps create that tender texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – A splash of vanilla really enhances the flavor!
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Just a pinch to balance all that sweetness.
- 1 cup ground walnuts or pecans – You can use either, or even mix them for a unique twist!
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar – This will sweeten the nut filling and help it stick together.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon – The warm spice that makes these cookies truly comforting.
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) – This gives the cookies a beautiful golden color when baked.
How to Prepare Italian Nut Roll Cookies
Alright, let’s dive into making these wonderful Italian nut roll cookies! I promise, once you get the hang of it, you’ll be a pro in no time. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious treat ready to share (or maybe just keep for yourself!).
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because you want your cookies to bake evenly. While that’s warming up, grab a large mixing bowl and toss in the flour, softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Don’t skip the salt, it really balances the sweetness!
Step 2: Make the Dough
Now it’s time to mix! Use your hands or a wooden spoon to combine everything until it forms a nice dough. It might feel a little crumbly at first, but keep kneading it until it’s smooth and cohesive. Once you’ve got that perfect dough, wrap it in plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge for about an hour. This chilling step is essential; it makes the dough easier to roll out later!
Step 3: Prepare the Nut Filling
While the dough is chilling, let’s whip up that fabulous nut filling! In a separate bowl, combine the ground nuts, granulated sugar, and cinnamon. Give it a good stir to make sure everything’s mixed well. The aroma of cinnamon will fill your kitchen, and trust me, it’s a heavenly scent!
Step 4: Roll and Shape the Cookies
Once your dough has chilled, sprinkle a bit of flour on your countertop and roll the dough out into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect; a little rustic look is part of the charm! Spread that nut filling evenly over the dough, making sure to leave a little border around the edges. Now, roll the dough tightly into a log, sealing the edges as you go. You want it nice and snug, so the filling doesn’t spill out during baking!
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
Before popping them in the oven, brush the log with the beaten egg to give it that beautiful golden color. Then, slice the log into about 1-inch pieces and place them on a lined baking sheet. Bake those beauties for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown. Keep an eye on them; the smell will be irresistible, and you’ll want to make sure they don’t get too brown. Once they’re done, let them cool on a wire rack, and get ready for the compliments!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk numbers! Here’s the estimated nutritional information for each of these delightful Italian nut roll cookies. Keep in mind, these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, but this gives you a pretty good idea of what you’re indulging in!
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Enjoy these cookies in moderation, and remember, they’re made with love and tradition! Happy baking!
FAQ about Italian Nut Roll Cookies
Can I use different nuts?
Absolutely! One of the best things about these Italian nut roll cookies is their versatility. You can swap out the ground walnuts for pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts. Each nut brings its own unique flavor, so feel free to get creative. Just make sure to chop or grind them well to ensure they mix nicely into the filling!
How do I store leftover cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay good for about a week. If you’re anything like me, they probably won’t last that long, but it’s good to know they can be enjoyed for a little while longer!
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can definitely freeze these Italian nut roll cookies! Just wrap each cookie tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. No need to re-bake them; they’ll taste just as wonderful as when they were fresh!
Tips for Success with Italian Nut Roll Cookies
Want to take your Italian nut roll cookies to the next level? I’ve got some pro tips that will help you nail this recipe every time! Trust me; these little tweaks make a world of difference.
- Chill the Dough Properly: Don’t rush the chilling process! The hour in the fridge is crucial as it makes the dough easier to roll out and helps prevent it from becoming too sticky. If you find it’s still hard to handle, give it a few more minutes in the fridge.
- Experiment with Fillings: While walnuts and pecans are traditional, don’t be afraid to mix it up! Try adding some dried fruits like raisins or cranberries to your nut mixture for a sweet surprise. Just be sure they’re chopped finely so they blend well.
- Watch the Baking Time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Start checking around the 20-minute mark. You want them to be golden brown but not too dark; they’ll continue cooking slightly after you take them out!
- Use a Sharp Knife: When slicing the log into cookies, a sharp knife will give you clean cuts without squishing the filling out. I like to use a serrated knife for this; it works wonders!
- Cool Completely: After baking, let your cookies cool completely on a wire rack before storing them. This helps them firm up and prevents them from becoming soggy in the container.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to impress your friends and family with your Italian nut roll cookies! Enjoy the process and happy baking!
Variations on Italian Nut Roll Cookies
Now that you’ve mastered the classic Italian nut roll cookies, let’s have some fun with variations! There are so many delicious directions you can take with this recipe, so get creative and make it your own. Here are some ideas to spice things up:
- Spice It Up: Swap out the cinnamon for nutmeg or ginger for a different flavor profile. A little cardamom can also add a lovely warmth that pairs beautifully with the nuts!
- Dried Fruit Delight: Add some finely chopped dried fruits like apricots, figs, or cranberries to the nut filling for a pop of sweetness and texture. It’s a wonderful way to add a fruity twist!
- Chocolate Lovers: Mix in some mini chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate to the nut filling. The rich chocolate will complement the nuts perfectly and make for an indulgent treat!
- Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the dough or nut filling for a bright, refreshing flavor that cuts through the richness. It’s a simple addition that makes a big difference!
- Nutty Mix: Experiment with a mix of nuts! Try combining walnuts, almonds, and hazelnuts for a complex flavor. Just be sure to adjust the quantities so the total remains around a cup.
- Glaze It: After baking, drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and lemon juice over the cooled cookies. It adds a nice shine and an extra layer of sweetness!
Feel free to mix and match these ideas or invent your own! The beauty of these Italian nut roll cookies is their versatility, so don’t be afraid to play around. You’ll be amazed at what delicious combinations you can create!
Why You’ll Love Italian Nut Roll Cookies
- Quick to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can have a batch of these cookies ready to enjoy in no time!
- Easy to Prepare: Even if you’re not a pro in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and forgiving, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Flavorful Filling: The combination of nuts, sugar, and warm spices creates a rich and satisfying flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Traditional Recipe: These cookies are steeped in Italian tradition, perfect for sharing during holidays or family gatherings.
- Versatile Options: You can easily customize the nut filling or spices to make them uniquely yours!
- Great for Gifting: Pack them up in a pretty box, and you’ve got a heartfelt gift that’s sure to impress!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To keep your Italian nut roll cookies fresh and delicious, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay tasty for about a week, though I doubt they’ll last that long once you start sharing them! If you want to keep them for a longer time, freezing is a great option.
To freeze, wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to two months. When you’re ready to indulge again, just take them out and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight. There’s no need to reheat them; they’ll taste just as delightful as when they were freshly baked. If you prefer them warm, you can pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes to get that comforting warmth back. Enjoy every bite!
Italian Christmas cookies are a delightful addition to any holiday gathering, just like these nut roll cookies.
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Italian Nut Roll Cookies: 5 Heartwarming Recipes to Love
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Italian nut roll cookies are a traditional dessert made with a sweet dough filled with a mixture of nuts, sugar, and spices.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup ground walnuts or pecans
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix flour, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt until combined.
- Knead the dough until smooth, then wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour.
- In another bowl, combine ground nuts, granulated sugar, and cinnamon.
- Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface into a rectangle.
- Spread the nut mixture evenly over the dough.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log and seal the edges.
- Brush the roll with beaten egg.
- Cut into slices and place on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Notes
- Use any nut of your choice for the filling.
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
- These cookies can be frozen for later use.
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: italian nut roll cookies
