Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Tradition: These cookies are steeped in Italian heritage, making them a meaningful addition to any festive occasion.
- Delightful Flavor Combination: The buttery dough perfectly complements the sweet and spiced nut filling, offering a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
- Versatility: Easily customizable with different nuts or jams, allowing you to tailor the recipe to your preferences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Dough:
- Unsalted butter
- Granulated sugar
- Large eggs
- Vanilla extract
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Salt
For the Filling:
- Ground walnuts
- Granulated sugar
- Powdered sugar
- Ground cinnamon
- Ground nutmeg
- Jam of your choice (such as fig, apricot, or cherry)
Directions
-
Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Divide the dough in half, wrap each half in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
-
Prepare the Filling:
- In a bowl, combine the ground walnuts, granulated sugar, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Add the jam and mix until the filling reaches a spreadable consistency.
-
Assemble and Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out one half of the dough to a ¼-inch thickness.
- Spread half of the nut filling evenly over the rolled-out dough.
- Starting from one edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log.
- Slice the log into 1-inch pieces and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Servings and Timing
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Variations
- Nut Alternatives: Substitute walnuts with almonds, hazelnuts, or pecans for a different flavor profile.
- Jam Options: Experiment with various jams like raspberry, strawberry, or orange marmalade to add a unique twist.
- Spice It Up: Incorporate spices such as cardamom or allspice to enhance the filling's complexity.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Freezing: Place the cookies in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper, and freeze for up to three months.
- Reheating: To enjoy warm, bake the cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes.
FAQs
What are Italian Nut Roll Cookies?
Italian Nut Roll Cookies are traditional pastries featuring a buttery dough wrapped around a sweet, spiced nut filling, commonly enjoyed during festive occasions.
Can I use different nuts for the filling?
Yes, you can substitute walnuts with almonds, hazelnuts, or pecans based on your preference.
How should I store these cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain freshness.
Can I freeze the cookies?
Absolutely, these cookies freeze well. Place them in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper, and freeze for up to three months.
What types of jam work best for the filling?
Fig, apricot, cherry, or raspberry jams are popular choices that complement the nutty filling.
How do I prevent the dough from sticking while rolling?
Lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin to prevent sticking. Chilling the dough also helps in easier handling.
Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough overnight or freeze it for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.
Why did my cookies spread too much during baking?
This could be due to over-softened dough. Ensure the dough is adequately chilled before baking to maintain shape.
Can I add chocolate to the filling?
Yes, finely chopped dark chocolate or mini chocolate chips can be added to the filling for a richer flavor.
Are these cookies traditionally glazed?
Some variations include a light glaze made from powdered sugar and milk, but they can also be enjoyed plain.
Conclusion
Italian Nut Roll Cookies are a delightful treat that blends rich tradition with irresistible flavors. Whether you enjoy them as a holiday staple or a year-round indulgence, their buttery dough and sweet, spiced nut filling make them a favorite. Try out different variations, store them for later enjoyment, and share these classic cookies with loved ones!
Italian Nut Roll Cookies Recipe
Italian Nut Roll Cookies, also known as Cuccidati or Sicilian Fig Cookies, are traditional Italian treats made with a buttery pastry and a sweet, spiced nut filling. Perfect for the holidays, these cookies offer a delicious combination of textures and flavors. Learn how to make these classic cookies with step-by-step instructions and variations!
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert, Cookies
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- Unsalted butter
- Granulated sugar
- Large eggs
- Vanilla extract
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Salt
For the Filling:
- Ground walnuts
- Granulated sugar
- Powdered sugar
- Ground cinnamon
- Ground nutmeg
- Jam of your choice (fig, apricot, cherry, etc.)
Instructions
Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Divide the dough in half, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Prepare the Filling:
- In a bowl, mix together the ground walnuts, granulated sugar, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Add the jam and mix until the filling reaches a spreadable consistency.
Assemble and Bake:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out one half of the dough to a ¼-inch thickness.
- Spread half of the nut filling evenly over the dough.
- Carefully roll the dough into a tight log and slice into 1-inch pieces.
- Place the slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, until golden brown.
- Cool on a wire rack before serving.
Notes
- Nut Alternatives: Swap walnuts for almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts.
- Jam Variations: Try raspberry, strawberry, or orange marmalade for a unique twist.
- Spice Additions: Add cardamom or allspice for extra warmth.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes before serving.
