Introduction

Italian Nut Roll Cookies are a cherished holiday tradition that captures the warmth, comfort, and deep-rooted flavors of classic Italian baking. These cookies combine a tender, buttery dough with a rich, sweet nut filling—typically made with finely ground walnuts, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and sometimes a splash of milk or honey. Rolled, sliced, and baked to golden perfection, these cookies offer a beautiful swirl pattern that makes them stand out on any Christmas cookie tray.

What makes Italian Nut Roll Cookies especially beloved is their comforting combination of textures. The dough is soft yet sturdy enough to hold the filling without cracking, while the walnut filling is gently sweet, nutty, and warmly spiced. Whether they’re enjoyed with a morning espresso, served at a holiday gathering, or gifted to loved ones in festive tins, these cookies truly embody the spirit of Italian Christmas baking.

This long-form recipe gives you a detailed guide on how to prepare authentic Italian Nut Roll Cookies that stay soft, flavorful, and absolutely irresistible. From rolling tips to filling variations, this recipe ensures bakery-quality cookies every time.

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Ingredients:

For the Dough

• 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup (120 g) sour cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 1/2 cups (440 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Nut Filling

• 2 cups (220 g) finely ground walnuts
• 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup (80 ml) warm milk (more if needed for spreading consistency)

For Finishing

• 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)
• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing until smooth.
Blend in the sour cream and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder.
Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms.
The dough should be slightly firm but pliable—if it’s sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until manageable.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

Divide the dough into two equal portions, wrap each in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Chilling is crucial for easier rolling and to prevent spreading during baking.

Step 3: Prepare the Nut Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the finely ground walnuts, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
Slowly pour in the warm milk—just enough to create a thick, spreadable paste.
The filling should not be watery or too loose.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

Lightly flour your work surface.
Roll out one portion of dough into a rectangle about 1/8–1/4 inch thick.
Ensure the edges are smooth so the rolls form evenly.

Step 5: Add the Nut Filling

Spread a generous, even layer of the walnut filling across the dough.
Leave a small border around the edges to avoid overflow when rolling.

Step 6: Roll into Logs & Slice

Starting from the long edge, gently roll the dough into a tight log.
Brush the seam lightly with water to help it seal.
Slice the log into 1-inch cookies using a sharp, non-serrated knife to keep the swirl pattern neat.

Step 7: Brush & Bake

Place cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Brush the tops lightly with beaten egg to give them a glossy, golden finish.

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.

Step 8: Cool & Dust

Allow cookies to cool completely.
Optionally dust with powdered sugar for a festive finish.

Variation

🇮🇹 1. Italian Honey Walnut Rolls

Replace sugar in the filling with honey for a richer, smoother texture.

🍋 2. Lemon-Infused Nut Roll Cookies

Add 1 tablespoon lemon zest to the dough and a few drops of lemon extract to brighten the flavor.

🍫 3. Chocolate Walnut Rolls

Add 2 tablespoons cocoa powder to the filling for a chocolate-nut twist.

🥥 4. Coconut-Walnut Fusion

Add 1/4 cup shredded coconut to the filling mixture for extra sweetness and texture.

🥄 5. Almond Nut Roll Cookies

Substitute walnuts with finely ground almonds for a more delicate, slightly sweet filling.

COOKING Note

• Use freshly ground walnuts for the smoothest filling.
• Chill the dough long enough to prevent tearing while rolling.
• Warm milk helps bind the filling—cold milk may make it grainy.
• Avoid overbaking; the cookies should stay lightly golden, not dark.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with espresso, cappuccino, or a cup of holiday tea.
• Arrange on a Christmas dessert platter with biscotti, pizzelles, and ricotta cookies.
• Wrap in decorative tins for homemade holiday gifts.
• Pair with warm spiced wine for traditional Italian holiday gatherings.

Tips

• Roll dough evenly to ensure uniform baking.
• Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and improve browning.
• If your filling is too thick, add 1 teaspoon of milk at a time.
• Slice cookies with a sharp knife to preserve the swirl pattern.
• Store in an airtight container—they taste even better the next day.

Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling)

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes (plus chilling)

Nutritional Information (Approx. per cookie):

Calories: ~160
Protein: ~3 g
Sodium: ~55 mg

FAQs

1. Can I freeze Italian nut roll cookies?

Yes! Freeze them baked or unbaked. Baked cookies freeze well for up to 2 months.

2. Why did my dough crack when rolling?

Your dough may be too cold or too dry. Let it sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before rolling.

3. Can I use pecans instead of walnuts?

Absolutely—pecan filling is a delicious alternative.

4. How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?

Leave a small border around the dough and avoid overfilling.

5. Can I make these ahead for Christmas?

Yes, these cookies actually taste better after a day or two as the flavors meld together.

Conclusion

Italian Nut Roll Cookies bring the heartwarming flavors of classic Italian holiday baking right into your kitchen. With their buttery dough, sweet walnut filling, and beautiful swirled appearance, they’re a perfect addition to Christmas dessert tables, cookie trays, and homemade gift boxes. This traditional recipe ensures soft, flavorful cookies packed with nostalgia, comfort, and timeless Italian charm. Bake them once, and they’ll become a holiday tradition for years to come!