Few things evoke the warmth of home baking like the delicate, nutty sweetness of Italian Nut Roll Cookies. These classic treats have been a staple in Italian-American households for generations, often making an appearance at Christmas, Easter, and family gatherings. The combination of buttery, flaky pastry wrapped around a rich walnut and cinnamon filling creates a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

While they may look intricate, making these cookies is simpler than it seems. This guide breaks down the process into easy-to-follow steps, complete with ingredient variations, troubleshooting tips, and expert baking advice. Whether you’re a first-time baker or a seasoned pro, you’ll learn everything needed to perfect these Italian favorites.

What Makes Italian Nut Roll Cookies Special?

Italian Nut Roll Cookies stand out for their buttery dough, sweet nutty filling, and light, flaky texture**. They’re often compared to rugelach or Hungarian nut rolls but have a distinct richness from the cream cheese-based dough. What makes them unique?

• Flaky & Buttery Dough: The secret to these cookies is the dough—made with cream cheese and butter for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Rich Walnut Filling: The finely chopped walnuts are mixed with honey, cinnamon, and sugar for a perfect balance of sweetness and spice.
• Traditional Yet Customizable: While the classic version uses walnuts, many bakers experiment with pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts.

These cookies are not just about flavor; they bring a sense of tradition and nostalgia, passed down through generations.

Ingredients and Instructions

Before we start baking, let’s go over what you’ll need. Having your ingredients measured and prepared in advance makes the process smoother.

Ingredients List

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
All-purpose flour	2 ½ cups	Sifted for a light texture
Butter	1 cup	Softened
Cream cheese	8 oz	Room temperature
Sugar	½ cup	Granulated
Eggs	2	Room temperature
Vanilla extract	1 tsp	Pure extract preferred
Walnuts, finely chopped	2 cups	Toasted for richer flavor
Cinnamon	1 tsp	Optional but recommended
Honey	2 tbsp	Enhances the nutty filling

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s break the process into easy, manageable steps to ensure success.

1. Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, cream cheese, and sugar until fluffy. This step is crucial because well-mixed fats create the perfect tender texture. Add in the eggs and vanilla, then mix again until smooth.

Gradually incorporate the flour, stirring gently until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the dough tough. The texture should be soft but not sticky.

Divide the dough into two equal portions, shape them into disks, and wrap them in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll.

2. Make the Filling

While the dough chills, prepare the nut filling. In a small bowl, combine the chopped walnuts, cinnamon, and honey. Stir until the mixture is well coated.

3. Roll Out the Dough

Remove one portion of dough from the refrigerator and place it on a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a 12×8-inch rectangle, about ⅛-inch thick.

4. Spread the Nut Filling

Evenly distribute half of the walnut filling over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. This prevents the filling from oozing out during baking.

5. Roll & Slice

Starting from the long edge, roll the dough into a tight log. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 1-inch pieces.

6. Bake to Perfection

Place the slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

7. Cool and Serve

Let the cookies cool on a wire rack before dusting them with powdered sugar.

Pro Baking Tips for Perfect Nut Roll Cookies

• Chill the Dough: This step is essential to prevent the dough from becoming too sticky to roll.
• Use a Sharp Knife: A dull knife will press down on the dough, distorting its shape.
• Evenly Distribute the Filling: Ensure the walnut mixture is spread evenly to maintain consistent flavors.
• Don’t Overbake: Bake just until golden brown to keep the cookies soft and delicate.

FAQs – Answering Common Questions

For another unique cookie recipe, try our Rice Krispie Chocolate Chip Cookies. They combine crunch and chewiness in one bite!

Looking for another nutty dessert? Check out our Easy Pecan Pie Dump Cake, which is packed with rich pecan flavor.