Name: Italian Nut Roll Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cut into small pieces); 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; Zest of one lemon (optional); 1 cup walnuts (or hazelnuts, finely chopped); 1/2 cup fruit jam (apricot, raspberry, or your choice); 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Jump to Recipe

Baking a batch of Italian Nut Roll Cookies is pure kitchen joy: you’re swirling together buttery, golden dough, sweet jam, and spiced, crumbly nuts into delicious spirals that look as gorgeous as they taste. These old-world cookies blend a soft, tender pastry with a hint of citrus and a crunch of sweet cinnamon nuts, all wrapped around a layer of jewel-bright jam. Whether you’re celebrating the holidays or just want a treat that’ll delight your friends and family, Italian Nut Roll Cookies bring warmth and a touch of tradition to every plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Italian Nut Roll Cookies lies in their simplicity—each ingredient plays a thoughtful role, from giving the dough its tender crumb to infusing each bite with layers of flavor. Gather these pantry staples, and you’re on your way to cookie perfection.

All-purpose flour: Provides the structural base for the dough, keeping it light and tender.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the dough and the nut filling for balanced flavor in every layer.
Baking powder: Adds just enough lift, so your cookies are soft and slightly cakey.
Salt: Balances out the sweetness and brings all the flavors together.
Unsalted butter (cold, cut into pieces): Gives a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture—using it cold is the secret!
Large eggs: Bind everything together and add richness to the dough.
Pure vanilla extract: Lends a warm, aromatic undertone that’s pure comfort.
Lemon zest (optional): Brightens the dough with a subtle citrus zing; it’s optional, but oh-so-worth-it.
Walnuts (or hazelnuts, finely chopped): Classic for the filling, lending both crunch and a deeply nutty flavor.
Fruit jam or preserves (apricot, raspberry, or your favorite): Adds sweetness and a pop of color—choose what you love!
Granulated sugar (for filling): Coats the nuts with a touch more sweetness.
Ground cinnamon: Adds cozy warmth and a familiar, comforting spice note.

How to Make Italian Nut Roll Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by whisking together your flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and lemon zest (if using) in a big mixing bowl. Add those cold butter pieces—don’t rush this part! Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to gently work the butter in until the mix looks like coarse crumbs. This step ensures your Italian Nut Roll Cookies will be perfectly tender.

Step 2: Mix in the Eggs and Vanilla

In a separate bowl, lightly beat the eggs with vanilla extract. Pour the mixture into your crumbly dough and mix just until the dough comes together—don’t overwork it! If it seems a bit dry, sprinkle in a teaspoon of cold water, just until it holds.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

Shape your dough into a disk and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Let it chill in the fridge for at least an hour; this step is key for easy rolling and prevents your cookies from spreading too much as they bake.

Step 4: Make the Nutty Filling

Combine the finely chopped nuts, an extra quarter cup of sugar, and ground cinnamon in a bowl. This aromatic combo is the heart and soul of Italian Nut Roll Cookies, adding richness and spice to every swirl.

Step 5: Preheat the Oven and Prep Your Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. These little preparations ensure your cookies bake evenly and come off the pan in perfect shape.

Step 6: Assemble the Nut Rolls

Divide the chilled dough in half. On a floured surface, roll out one half into a rectangle about quarter inch thick. Spread a thin layer of your chosen jam, leaving a small border so it doesn’t ooze out. Then sprinkle over half of your nut mixture. Carefully roll the dough into a tight log, just like making a jelly roll, and pinch the seams shut. Repeat with the second half and filling.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Place the rolled logs seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Slide them into the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until they’re golden and fragrant. Let them rest for about 10 minutes when they come out so they can set up for slicing.

Step 8: Slice and Cool the Cookies

Use a serrated knife to slice the warm rolls diagonally into beautiful, half-inch-thick cookies. Move them to a wire rack to cool completely; this helps them crisp up just right. Finish with a dusting of powdered sugar for a picture-perfect touch.

How to Serve Italian Nut Roll Cookies

Italian Nut Roll Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar is a classic finish for Italian Nut Roll Cookies, giving them a charming, snow-kissed look. If you’re feeling a bit fancy, try a drizzle of melted chocolate or even a scatter of extra finely chopped nuts for a little crunch.

Side Dishes

These cookies are dreamy alongside a cup of strong espresso, creamy cappuccino, or even a mug of hot chocolate. For a lighter pairing, enjoy them with an assortment of fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a playful Italian dessert plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Bring Italian Nut Roll Cookies to a holiday cookie platter, nestle them in pretty boxes for edible gifts, or stack them high on a tiered dessert stand at your next gathering. Their spiraled look is naturally festive, so let them shine wherever you serve them!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover Italian Nut Roll Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, where they’ll stay fresh and tender for up to one week. Make sure the container is sealed well to keep that signature texture just right.

Freezing

For longer storage, lay the cooled cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking. They’ll keep beautifully for up to three months, so you can always have a sweet bite ready for guests.

Reheating

Simply thaw frozen cookies at room temperature; if you want to revive that fresh-baked feel, pop them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 4-5 minutes. They’ll be deliciously fragrant and just slightly crisp, as if you just baked them!

FAQs

Can I use other types of nuts in Italian Nut Roll Cookies?

Absolutely! Try pecans or almonds for a different, yet still classic, flavor twist. Just make sure to chop them finely for the best texture in the filling.

Can I make these cookies in advance?

Yes! Both the dough and the assembled logs can be prepared and chilled overnight. When you’re ready, simply slice and bake as directed for fresh Italian Nut Roll Cookies anytime.

Do I need to use jam, or can I skip it?

While the layer of jam adds sweetness and a delightful contrast to the nuts, you can skip it or replace it with chocolate spread or honey for a different spin. Feel free to experiment!

How do I keep the rolls from splitting when baking?

Make sure to chill your dough and not overfill with jam and nuts. Rolling tightly and pinching the seams closed is also key to keeping your Italian Nut Roll Cookies neat and beautiful.

Can I freeze the baked cookies?

Absolutely! Freeze them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separated by parchment. When ready to serve, thaw at room temperature for a treat that’s just as delicious as when first baked.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something homemade and charming, give Italian Nut Roll Cookies a spot on your baking list. Their inviting swirls and rich flavors always bring smiles, and once you share them with loved ones, you’ll see just how special this timeless treat can be.

Italian Nut Roll Cookies Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 21 reviews

Author: lilan
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Yield: About 24 cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These Italian Nut Roll Cookies are a delightful treat with a buttery, nutty filling wrapped in a tender, slightly sweet dough. Perfect for any occasion!

Instructions

Prepare the Dough – In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients, cut in the butter, add egg mixture, and form a dough. Chill.
Prepare the Filling – Combine nuts, sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl.
Preheat the Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and prepare baking sheet.
Assemble the Rolls – Roll out dough, spread jam, sprinkle nut mixture, roll into logs.
Bake the Rolls – Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden.
Slice the Cookies – Slice diagonally and cool on wire rack.

Notes

You can substitute the walnuts with hazelnuts for a different flavor profile.
Feel free to experiment with different fruit jams to find your favorite combination.
Dusting the cookies with powdered sugar adds a lovely finish.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian