Italian Nut Roll Cookies: Your New Go-To Holiday Cookie Recipe

These Italian Nut Roll Cookies are a delightful twist on a classic holiday favorite. With a delicate, flaky dough wrapped around a sweet and nutty filling, they offer the perfect balance of texture and flavor. Traditionally made with a rich dough, this lighter version keeps all the indulgence without going overboard.

Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, a holiday gathering, or just to satisfy a sweet craving, these cookies are sure to impress. Serve them with a warm cup of coffee or tea, and enjoy a taste of tradition with a mindful approach!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfectly Balanced: A nutty filling wrapped in light, tender dough.
Great for Holidays or Everyday Treats: Perfect for gifting or enjoying at home.
Lighter Version of a Classic: All the flavor, but with better-for-you ingredients.
Simple & Easy to Make: No complicated steps, just delicious results!
Versatile & Customizable: Change up the nuts or add different flavors.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (or a mix of whole wheat and white flour)
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• 4 tbsp light butter, softened
• 3 oz reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
• 1 tbsp Greek yogurt (adds moisture without extra fat)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar substitute (or regular sugar)
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Filling:

• ¾ cup ground walnuts (or pecans, almonds)
• ¼ cup sugar substitute
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 2 tbsp unsweetened applesauce (adds moisture and sweetness)
• 1 tbsp milk (or unsweetened almond milk)

For the Topping:

• 1 egg white, beaten (for brushing)
• 1 tbsp powdered sugar substitute (for dusting, optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, beat butter, cream cheese, Greek yogurt, and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
5. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes.

Make the Nut Filling

1. In a bowl, mix ground walnuts, sugar substitute, cinnamon, applesauce, and milk until well combined.
2. The mixture should be spreadable but not too wet.

Assemble the Cookies

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface into a 12×8-inch rectangle.
3. Spread the nut filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border at the edges.
4. Carefully roll the dough into a tight log, starting from the long side.
5. Slice into ¾-inch pieces and place them on the baking sheet.

Bake to Perfection

1. Brush each cookie with beaten egg white for a golden finish.
2. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until lightly golden.
3. Let cool and dust with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar substitute (optional).

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)

Calories: 85 | Carbs: 9g | Fat: 4g | Protein: 2g | Fiber: 1g

Tips for Success

• Chill the Dough: This helps with rolling and prevents sticking.
• Evenly Spread the Filling: Ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
• Roll Tightly: A snug roll helps keep the filling intact.
• Use Different Nuts: Try hazelnuts or pecans for variety.
• Make Ahead: The dough can be made a day in advance for easy prep.

Why This Recipe Works

• Uses a Lighter Dough: Cream cheese and yogurt add richness without excess fat.
• Naturally Sweetened Filling: Applesauce enhances the nutty flavors.
• Portioned for Mindful Eating: Small, satisfying bites of indulgence.
• Perfect Balance of Texture & Flavor: Crisp edges with a soft, nutty center.

These Italian Nut Roll Cookies are a delightful addition to any cookie tray. With their tender, flaky dough and spiced nut filling, they bring the best of tradition with a modern, lighter twist.

Enjoy them fresh, gift them to loved ones, or make a batch for special occasions—because a little sweet indulgence can fit into any balanced lifestyle!