Name: Delicious Italian Nut Roll Cookies for Your Holiday Table
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Gluten-free flour can be used for a gluten-free version.); 1 cup Butter (Use unsalted for better flavor control.); ½ cup Granulated Sugar (Brown sugar works for a deeper flavor.); 1 large Egg (A flax egg is a great vegan alternative.); 1 pinch Salt (Balances sweetness.); 1 cup Walnuts (Pecans can be substituted if preferred.); ¼ cup Honey (Maple syrup is a suitable substitute.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Almond extract can be an alternative.)

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As I sifted through the flour and butter, the kitchen filled with the warm, nutty fragrance of my childhood memories. These Italian Nut Roll Cookies always held a special place on our holiday table, showcasing a beautiful blend of flaky goodness wrapped around a luscious walnut filling. Not only are they a breeze to whip up, making them perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers, but they also bring a touch of Italian tradition to your festive gatherings. With their delightful texture and inviting aroma, these cookies elevate any cozy coffee break or family celebration. Ready to roll up your sleeves and bring a slice of Italy to your home? Let’s dive into this holiday classic!

Why are Italian Nut Roll Cookies the best?

Tradition You Can Taste: These Italian Nut Roll Cookies capture the essence of festive flavors and are perfect for celebrating holiday traditions.

Family-Friendly Fun: The easy-to-follow steps make baking a joyous activity for all ages, whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out.

Heavenly Aroma: The blend of walnuts and honey fills your kitchen with a sweet, nutty fragrance, creating an inviting atmosphere.

Versatile Delight: Serve them with coffee, tea, or milk for a delightful treat that fits any occasion.

Make Ahead Magic: Bake them in advance! These cookies store well, allowing you to prepare for holiday gatherings without the last-minute rush. For another delightful cookie experience, check out our Italian Lemon Pistachio or Coconut Caramel Chocolate recipes.

Italian Nut Roll Cookies Ingredients

For the Dough

All-Purpose Flour – Provides the structure of the cookies; gluten-free flour can be used for a gluten-free version.
Butter – Adds richness and tenderness; be sure to use unsalted butter for better flavor control.
Granulated Sugar – For essential sweetness; brown sugar works wonderfully for a deeper flavor.
Egg – Binds the dough together; a flax egg is a great vegan alternative.
Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.

For the Filling

Walnuts – The star ingredient delivering crunch and nutty flavor; pecans can be substituted if preferred.
Honey – Sweetens the filling and adds moisture; feel free to use maple syrup as a suitable substitute.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavors in both the dough and filling; almond extract can be a delicious alternative.

Delight your family and friends with these irresistibly sweet Italian Nut Roll Cookies!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Italian Nut Roll Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, ½ cup of granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Use a pastry cutter or your hands to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, about 2-3 minutes. This flaky dough will be the perfect foundation for your Italian Nut Roll Cookies.

Step 2: Mix in Wet Ingredients
Add 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the crumbly mixture. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix until a smooth dough forms, about 1-2 minutes. Once combined, cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps make rolling easier and keeps the cookies from spreading too much during baking.

Step 3: Make the Filling
While the dough chills, prepare the filling. In a separate medium bowl, combine 1 cup of finely chopped walnuts, ¼ cup of honey, and a pinch of salt. Mix gently until the ingredients are well blended. This rich nutty filling will complement the soft dough beautifully, creating the delightful Italian Nut Roll Cookies you cherish.

Step 4: Preheat Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to preheat while you roll out your dough. Preheating ensures your cookies bake evenly and develop a golden crust. As the oven warms, take the chilled dough out of the refrigerator and let it sit for a few minutes to become more pliable.

Step 5: Roll and Cut
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Trim the edges to ensure evenness, and cut the dough into smaller rectangles, approximately 4×6 inches. This will be the canvas for your walnut filling, ready to be transformed into delicious Italian Nut Roll Cookies.

Step 6: Add Filling
Spread a thin layer of the walnut filling evenly over each rectangle of dough. Be sure to leave a small border around the edges. Starting from one edge, tightly roll the dough around the filling to create a log shape, pinching the seams together to seal in the delectable filling.

Step 7: Cut and Bake
Use a sharp knife to slice the rolled logs into 1-inch wide cookies and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart. Bake the Italian Nut Roll Cookies in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown. Keep an eye on them for that perfect hue!

Step 8: Cool
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling period enhances their texture and allows those irresistible flavors to meld together beautifully before serving.

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Make Ahead Options

These Italian Nut Roll Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the delightful taste without the last-minute stress! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours, ensuring it’s fresh and ready for baking. Additionally, the walnut filling can be made up to 3 days in advance, stored in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain its texture and flavor. When you’re ready to bake, simply roll out the chilled dough, spread the filling, and slice the cookies for baking. This way, you can savor homemade Italian Nut Roll Cookies with ease, making your holiday prep a breeze!

What to Serve with Italian Nut Roll Cookies

Indulge in the perfect pairing to elevate your sweet Italian Nut Roll Cookies into a delightful feast for all senses.

Rich Espresso: The bold flavors and deep aromas of a freshly brewed espresso enhance the nutty sweetness of the cookies perfectly.
Sweetened Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream brings a creamy texture that balances the crunch of walnuts beautifully.
Baked Apples: Caramelized, spiced baked apples offer a warm, fruity contrast, adding a comforting touch to your coffee break.
Milk Punch: A velvety milk punch with a hint of nutmeg provides a festive, creamy accompaniment that complements the cookies’ texture.
Hot Chocolate: A rich mug of hot chocolate creates a cozy atmosphere, making your holiday gathering even more indulgent and enjoyable.
Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses, like mascarpone or ricotta, can contrast wonderfully with the sweet cookie, adding depth to your dessert experience.

With these pairings, your Italian Nut Roll Cookies will shine even brighter on the holiday table!

How to Store and Freeze Italian Nut Roll Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, keeping them fresh and flavorful.

Fridge: For longer freshness, place your Italian Nut Roll Cookies in the fridge for up to 2 weeks while preserving their delicious taste.

Freezer: Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating: To warm up, microwave for a few seconds or place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, bringing back that delightful aroma and texture.

Italian Nut Roll Cookies Variations

Feel free to make these delicious cookies your own with a few simple swaps or additions!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend to make a gluten-free version without sacrificing taste.
Nutty Alternative: Try using pecans instead of walnuts for a distinctive twist that still offers a delightful crunch.
Chocolate Delight: Mix in cocoa powder into the dough or add chocolate chips to the filling for a chocolatey surprise that enhances the sweetness.
Spice It Up: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the filling for a warm, spiced flavor that perfectly complements the walnuts.
Vegan Version: Replace the egg with a flax egg and use vegan butter to create a completely vegan-friendly cookie everyone can enjoy.
Add Zest: Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the dough for a refreshing citrusy flavor that brightens up these holiday treats.
Sugary Finish: After baking, drizzle melted chocolate or caramel over the cooled cookies for an elegant touch and extra sweetness.
Festive Fun: For a holiday flair, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top of the frosting or filling for a seasonal surprise.

For more delightful ideas, experiment with our Baked Arancini Italian recipe next!

Expert Tips for Italian Nut Roll Cookies

Chill the Dough: Make sure your dough is well-chilled before rolling to ensure it maintains its shape and is easy to work with.
Avoid Overmixing: When preparing the filling, mix carefully to keep the walnut texture intact and avoid a gummy consistency.
Roll Evenly: Aim for uniform thickness when rolling out the dough to ensure even baking and a satisfying bite in every cookie.
Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and to promote easier cleanup after baking those Italian Nut Roll Cookies.
Dust with Sugar: For a beautiful finish, dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar right before serving, adding a delightful touch to their presentation.

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Italian Nut Roll Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of flour is best for Italian Nut Roll Cookies?
All-purpose flour is the star here, providing the ideal structure for these cookies. If you need a gluten-free option, feel free to substitute with a gluten-free flour blend, which works beautifully without sacrificing texture.

How should I store Italian Nut Roll Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want them to last longer, they can be refrigerated for up to 2 weeks while maintaining their fabulous flavor.

Can I freeze Italian Nut Roll Cookies?
Absolutely! First, bake the cookies and allow them to cool completely. Then, lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag, where they can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying — the flavors will still be delightful!

What should I do if the dough is too sticky?
If you find your dough sticky, don’t worry! Simply sprinkle a little more all-purpose flour onto your work surface or the dough itself while rolling it out. Just be cautious not to add too much flour, as it may alter the final texture of your cookies.

Are there any dietary considerations for Italian Nut Roll Cookies?
Great question! These cookies contain eggs and butter, so they are not suitable for those following a vegan diet unless you use a flax egg and vegan butter. Additionally, they contain walnuts, which can be a concern for those with nut allergies. Always be sure to check for alternatives if needed.

How can I enhance the flavor of the filling?
For an extra flavor boost, try incorporating a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the walnut filling or use almond extract instead of vanilla extract. This will add a delightful warmth and depth to the filling, making your Italian Nut Roll Cookies unforgettable!