Italian Nut Rolls (Walnut-Filled Cookies)
Ingredients
For the Dough:
4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
3 large eggs
1/2 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling:
2 cups finely ground walnuts (or pecans if you prefer)
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup honey
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 large egg white (for binding)
For the Glaze (Optional):
1 cup powdered sugar
1-2 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
- Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
In another bowl, whisk together eggs, sour cream, and vanilla. Add this mixture to the flour mixture, stirring until it forms a dough. If it’s too sticky, add a bit more flour.
Divide the dough into two portions, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Prepare the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground walnuts, sugar, honey, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and egg white. Mix well to create a thick paste.
- Assemble the Rolls:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Roll out one portion of dough into a thin rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
Spread half the filling evenly over the dough, then carefully roll it up lengthwise, like a jelly roll. Repeat with the second portion of dough.
Slice each roll into 1- to 2-inch pieces and place on the prepared baking sheets, cut side down.
- Bake:
Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the rolls are lightly golden. Allow to cool on a wire rack.
- Optional Glaze:
Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over cooled rolls for extra sweetness.
Tips
The filling can also be made with hazelnuts or almonds for a twist.
If you prefer a slightly softer dough, you can add a bit more sour cream.
These Italian nut rolls are deliciously rich, and the hint of cinnamon and honey adds a warm, sweet touch to the nutty filling. Enjoy!