Italian Nut Roll Cookies

## **How to Make Italian Nut Roll Cookies**

### **Step 1: Prepare the Dough**
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the **flour**, **baking powder**, and **salt**.
2. Add the cold **butter** and **cream cheese** to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your hands, work the butter and cream cheese into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. You can also pulse this in a food processor for a quicker result.
3. Add the **sugar** and **vanilla extract**, then gradually add a tablespoon of **milk** at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. You want the dough to be soft and pliable, but not sticky.
4. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least **1 hour** to make it easier to roll out.

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### **Step 2: Make the Nut Filling**
1. In a medium bowl, combine the **ground nuts**, **sugar**, **vanilla extract**, and the **beaten egg**. Stir well until the mixture is fully combined and has a slightly sticky consistency. If you’re using honey or corn syrup, add it now to help bind the filling together.
2. Set the filling aside while you roll out the dough.

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### **Step 3: Roll Out the Dough**
1. Preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)** and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Once the dough has chilled, divide it into **four equal portions**. Roll each portion of dough into a rectangle (about ¼-inch thick) on a lightly floured surface.
3. Spread a portion of the nut filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Carefully roll the dough into a log or cylinder, pinching the edges to seal the filling inside.
5. Slice each log into **½-inch pieces** and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

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### **Step 4: Bake the Cookies**
1. Bake the cookies for **15-20 minutes**, or until they are golden brown and the dough is fully cooked. The edges of the cookies should be lightly browned, and the nut filling should be set.
2. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

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### **Step 5: Optional Glaze**
If you’d like to add a simple glaze to your cookies, whisk together the **powdered sugar**, **milk**, and **vanilla extract** in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies for an extra touch of sweetness.

For a simpler presentation, you can also **dust the cookies with powdered sugar** after they’ve cooled. This adds a festive, snow-like appearance, perfect for holiday gatherings!

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## **Tips for Success**

– **Chill the Dough**: Chilling the dough before rolling it out makes it much easier to work with and helps the cookies hold their shape during baking.
– **Adjust the Filling**: If you like your cookies a little sweeter, feel free to add a touch more sugar to the nut mixture. You can also add some **cinnamon** or **nutmeg** to the filling for extra flavor.
– **Make Ahead**: These cookies can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, freeze the unbaked logs first, then slice and bake them when you’re ready to enjoy.

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## **Why You Should Make Italian Nut Roll Cookies**

1. **Perfect for the Holidays**: Italian Nut Roll Cookies are synonymous with festive celebrations, especially around Christmas time. Their delicate appearance and sweet, nutty filling make them a standout on any holiday cookie tray.

2. **Family-Friendly**: These cookies are great for baking with kids. The process of rolling out the dough, spreading the filling, and slicing the cookies is easy and fun for little hands.

3. **Elegant and Delicious**: Despite their humble ingredients, these cookies look sophisticated and are sure to impress anyone who tries them. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply sharing them with friends and family, they make a statement without being overly complicated.

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## **Final Thoughts**

**Italian Nut Roll Cookies** are a perfect blend of tradition, flavor, and nostalgia. Their simple, buttery dough wrapped around a rich, nutty filling creates a treat that is both comforting and indulgent. Whether you’re following a family recipe or making them for the first time, these cookies will undoubtedly become a favorite in your holiday baking repertoire.

So, the next time you’re in the kitchen, why not try your hand at making these classic treats? Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or shared with loved ones, Italian Nut Roll Cookies are sure to bring joy to any occasion.

Happy baking! 🍪