Italian Nut Roll Cookies

If you love buttery pastries with sweet, nutty fillings, then you’re in for a real treat with these Italian Nut Roll Cookies! These tender cookie spirals are filled with chopped pecans (or walnuts), rich brown sugar, and a hint of cinnamon, all rolled up in soft, melt-in-your-mouth dough. The final touch? A dusting of powdered sugar that makes them look just as beautiful as they taste.

Whether it’s for the holidays, a cozy brunch, or an everyday dessert, these nut roll cookies are a timeless recipe that’s been passed down through generations—and once you try them, you’ll understand why.

What Are Italian Nut Roll Cookies?

Italian Nut Roll Cookies, sometimes called “nut pinwheels” or “pecan rolls,” are a classic pastry-style cookie. They’re made by rolling a soft dough around a sweet nut filling, slicing into spirals, and baking until golden. The filling usually combines pecans or walnuts with brown sugar and cinnamon, creating a rich, slightly caramelized center.

These cookies are like a cross between a cinnamon roll and a soft shortbread cookie—anything but ordinary!

this Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Buttery, tender dough with the perfect crumb
• Rich, sweet nut filling in every swirl
• Looks impressive but is surprisingly easy to make
• Perfect for holidays or special gatherings
• Freezer-friendly for make-ahead baking

What Do They Taste Like?

These Italian Nut Roll Cookies taste like the best part of a pecan pie wrapped in a buttery pastry! The dough is soft and slightly crumbly, the nutty filling is sweet with a hint of cinnamon, and the whole cookie is finished with a delicate dusting of powdered sugar. Each bite is tender, nutty, and just sweet enough without being overly rich.

Benefits of Making Nut Roll Cookies at Home

• Use fresh, high-quality nuts for the best flavor
• Customize the filling to your liking
• Make a large batch for sharing or freezing
• Create a show-stopping cookie plate centerpiece
• Enjoy a family baking tradition—these cookies are great for making with loved ones

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for Italian Nut Roll Cookies:

For the Dough:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp salt

For the Nut Filling:

• 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 1 tbsp milk

For Garnish:

• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Tools You’ll Need

• Rolling pin
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Sharp knife or pastry cutter
• Pastry brush (for butter)

Ingredient Swaps & Additions

• Use walnuts or almonds if you prefer
• Add raisins or mini chocolate chips for extra texture
• Try orange zest in the dough for a citrusy twist
• Make them gluten-free with 1:1 gluten-free flour blend
• Add a drizzle of honey or glaze for extra sweetness

How to Make Italian Nut Roll Cookies

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the dough: In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing just until combined.
2. Chill the dough: Divide dough into two disks, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight).
3. Prepare the filling: In a small bowl, mix nuts, brown sugar, cinnamon, melted butter, and milk until combined.
4. Roll and fill: On a floured surface, roll out one disk of dough into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Spread half the nut filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border.
5. Roll up: Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice into ¾-inch thick pieces.
6. Bake: Place the slices cut-side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes, or until golden on the edges.
7. Cool and dust: Let cookies cool slightly, then dust generously with powdered sugar.

What to Serve with Nut Roll Cookies

• Espresso or cappuccino
• Spiced chai or black tea
• A scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert
• On a holiday cookie platter with other favorites
• As a sweet brunch side with fruit and yogurt

Tips for the Best Nut Roll Cookies

• Use softened butter—not melted—for the best dough texture
• Chill the dough to make rolling easier
• Roll tightly so the spirals hold their shape
• Use fresh nuts for maximum flavor
• Store in an airtight container to keep them tender

Storage Instructions

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days
• Freezer: Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months—thaw at room temperature
• Make ahead: Roll and fill logs can be frozen before slicing and baking

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these with store-bought dough?

Yes, but homemade dough gives the best texture! If using store-bought pastry, choose a soft sugar cookie dough or crescent dough.

Can I freeze these?

Absolutely! Freeze them baked or unbaked. If freezing unbaked, slice first and freeze in a single layer.

Can I make these with other nuts?

Yes! Walnuts, pecans, almonds, or a mix all work great.

Conclusion

These Italian Nut Roll Cookies are a delicious way to enjoy a traditional treat that’s both nostalgic and impressive. Whether you serve them during the holidays or just because, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast from the cookie tray!

Once you master these, they’ll become a go-to recipe for special occasions—or anytime you’re craving something buttery and nutty.

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Nutritional Information (Per Cookie – Approximate, makes 24)

• Calories: 180
• Fat: 12g
• Carbs: 15g
• Sugar: 8g
• Protein: 2g

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July 14, 2025 by Melissa