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Italian Nut Roll Cookies

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These Authentic Italian Nut Roll Cookies are a classic holiday favorite, featuring a flaky, buttery dough wrapped around a sweet walnut filling. Perfect for festive gatherings, these traditional cookies are easy to make and can be customized with different nuts or even chocolate. Bake a batch and enjoy a taste of Italy in every bite!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Dough:

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Filling:

  • 1 1/2 cups walnuts, finely ground
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 teaspoons milk or water

For Assembly:

  • 1 egg white, lightly beaten (for sealing)

Instructions

  • Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
  • Add butter, sour cream, egg yolks, and vanilla. Mix until a soft dough forms. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 1 hour.
  • Make the Filling: In a bowl, mix ground walnuts, cinnamon, honey, powdered sugar, and milk/water until combined. Set aside.
  • Roll the Dough: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a thin rectangle.
  • Fill and Roll: Spread the nut filling evenly over the dough. Roll tightly from one edge to form a log. Brush the edge with egg white to seal.
  • Cut and Bake: Slice into 1-inch pieces and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
  • Cool and Serve: Let cool completely, then dust with powdered sugar if desired.

Notes

  • Use pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts instead of walnuts for variety.
  • Dough can be made ahead of time and refrigerated overnight.
  • For a chocolatey twist, add mini chocolate chips to the filling!