Italian Nut Roll Cookies

Introduction

I first encountered Italian Nut Roll Cookies during a holiday family gathering, and ever since, they’ve become a beloved tradition in our house. These cookies are the perfect balance of buttery, nutty, and aromatic spices, making them a sweet treat that everyone loves. The rich filling of finely ground walnuts combined with cinnamon and nutmeg is what really elevates these cookies. Each bite is a delightful experience, as the buttery dough melts in your mouth and the sweet, spiced filling surprises you with every chew. My family couldn’t get enough of them, and they quickly disappeared from the cookie tray! Whether you’re making them for a festive occasion or just to enjoy with a cup of tea, these Italian Nut Roll Cookies are sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

• 1 cup finely ground walnuts
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Instructions

Make the Dough:

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
2. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing just until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
4. Once combined, divide the dough in half and wrap each portion in plastic wrap. Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes to help it firm up and make rolling easier.

Make the Filling:

1. While the dough chills, prepare the nut filling. In a small bowl, combine the ground walnuts, granulated sugar, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until everything is evenly distributed.

Assemble and Bake:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Roll out one half of the dough on a lightly floured surface, rolling it to a thickness of about 1/4-inch.
3. Evenly spread half of the nut filling over the rolled-out dough, ensuring it covers the entire surface.
4. Carefully roll the dough into a log, jelly-roll style, ensuring the filling stays inside.
5. Cut the rolled dough into 1-inch slices and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat this process with the other half of the dough and filling.
6. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown on the edges.
7. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your delicious Italian Nut Roll CookiesNutrition Facts

• Servings: 24 cookies (1-inch slices)
• Calories per serving: Approximately 150 calories per cookie

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes
• Bake Time: 12-15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour (including chill time)

How to Serve

These cookies are perfect for a holiday gathering or any occasion where you want to share something special with family and friends. Here are some ideas on how to serve them:

• As part of a holiday cookie platter: Mix them with other cookies like sugar cookies or gingerbread for a festive spread.
• With tea or coffee: Serve them alongside a hot beverage for a cozy treat.
• For dessert: They make an excellent ending to a meal when paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Gift them: Wrap them up in a decorative box for a thoughtful homemade gift.

Additional Tips

1. Chill the dough well: Refrigerating the dough makes it easier to handle and roll out.
2. Finely ground walnuts: For the best texture and flavor, make sure the walnuts are ground finely so they don’t overwhelm the dough.
3. Don’t overfill: Apply the filling evenly, but don’t overstuff the dough, or it may spill out during baking.
4. Watch the baking time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake, as oven temperatures vary. They should be golden brown, but not overly browned.
5. Use parchment paper: Always line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.

Recipe Variations

• Different Nuts: You can swap walnuts with other nuts like pecans or almonds for a unique flavor twist.
• Add Dried Fruit: Try adding a small amount of finely chopped dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries to the nut filling for added sweetness and texture.
• Icing: Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the cookies after baking for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Spices: For a different flavor profile, try experimenting with different spices like cardamom or cloves.
• Vegan Option: Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use egg replacers to make this recipe vegan-friendly.

Serving Suggestions

• As a stand-alone dessert: These cookies are perfect on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea.
• With ice cream: Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream to complement the nutty, spiced filling.
• In gift baskets: Package these cookies in a basket with other homemade goodies for a personal touch.
• On a cookie platter: These cookies look beautiful when arranged on a festive cookie platter for a holiday celebration.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: These cookies freeze well. Place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Storage: Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain freshness.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
   Yes, the dough can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 2 days before rolling and baking.
2. Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?
   Absolutely! Pecans or almonds can be substituted in place of walnuts for a different flavor.
3. How thin should I roll out the dough?
   Roll the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness for optimal texture and bake.
4. Can I freeze the cookies?
   Yes, these cookies freeze very well. Just place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.
5. How can I make these cookies more festive?
   Drizzle them with icing or dust them with powdered sugar for a beautiful, festive finish.
6. What should I do if the dough is too sticky?
   If the dough is sticky, add a little more flour until it becomes easier to handle.
7. Can I double the recipe?
   Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled for a larger batch.
8. What if I don’t have parchment paper?
   You can grease your baking sheet, though parchment paper is recommended to avoid sticking.
9. Can I add chocolate to the filling?
   You can try adding a handful of mini chocolate chips to the filling for a chocolate-nut combo.
10. How can I make the cookies more crunchy?
    If you prefer a crunchier texture, bake them for an additional 2-3 minutes, but be careful not to over-brown them.

Conclusion

Italian Nut Roll Cookies are a delightful treat that adds a rich, nutty flavor to any cookie platter. Whether you’re baking for a holiday celebration, a special occasion, or just because, these cookies are sure to please everyone. With their buttery dough, aromatic spices, and sweet walnut filling, they bring a taste of Italy right to your home. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy the delicious result!

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