Go Back
Plate of Italian Nut Roll Cookies dusted with powdered sugar on a festive table setting.
Alyssa

Italian Nut Roll Cookies

These Italian Nut Roll Cookies are tender, buttery, and filled with sweet jam and spiced nuts, perfect for holidays and cozy treats.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 154

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter (cold and cut into small pieces)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 lemon zest (optional)
  • 1 cup walnuts (or hazelnuts, finely chopped)
  • ½ cup fruit jam (or preserves)
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and lemon zest (if using). Add the cold butter pieces to the dry ingredients.
  2. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. In a small bowl, beat the eggs and vanilla extract together. Add the egg mixture to the flour mixture. Mix until the dough comes together. If it's too dry, add a teaspoon of cold water at a time until it holds together.
  4. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  5. In a medium bowl, combine the finely chopped nuts, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon. Set aside.
  6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  7. Divide the chilled dough into two equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion into a rectangle approximately ¼ inch (6 mm) thick.
  8. Spread a thin layer of fruit jam evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle half of the nut mixture evenly over the jam layer.
  9. Starting from one of the long edges, carefully roll the dough into a tight log, similar to a jelly roll. Pinch the seams and ends to seal. Repeat with the second portion of dough and remaining filling.
  10. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown.
  11. Remove from the oven and allow the rolls to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
  12. Slice the rolls diagonally into ½-inch (1.3 cm) thick cookies. Place the sliced cookies on a wire rack to cool completely.
  13. Dust with powdered sugar if desired before serving.

Notes

These cookies are perfect for the holidays and can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.