Italian Cookies Recipe

Introduction

Italian cookies are a delightful treat featuring a tender, buttery dough filled with a sweet and spiced nut mixture. These homemade cookies offer a perfect balance of texture and flavor, making them a favorite for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup walnuts or pecans, finely chopped
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Step 2: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract.
3. Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Step 4: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms.
5. Step 5: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
6. Step 6: Meanwhile, prepare the filling by combining the chopped nuts, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl.
7. Step 7: Divide the chilled dough into portions and roll each into a thin rectangle on a floured surface.
8. Step 8: Evenly spread the nut mixture over the rolled-out dough.
9. Step 9: Roll the dough tightly into a log, then slice it into individual cookies.
10. Step 10: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
11. Step 11: Place the sliced cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until golden brown.
12. Step 12: Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, toast the nuts lightly before chopping to enhance their aroma.
• Swap walnuts with pecans or almonds depending on your preference.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg to the filling for a warm, spiced twist.
• Ensure the dough is well chilled to make rolling and shaping easier.

Storage

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm them briefly in a low oven or microwave to regain their softness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While margarine can be used, butter is preferred for its rich flavor and texture, which greatly enhance the cookies.

Can these cookies be made gluten-free?

Yes. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, making sure it contains xanthan gum or another binder for best results.

Italian Cookies Recipe

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4.6 from 660 reviews

These traditional Italian cookies feature a tender buttery dough filled with a sweet and spiced nut mixture. Perfectly crisp and golden-baked, they make an ideal treat for holidays, coffee breaks, or sharing with loved ones.

• Author: Elena
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• Yield: About 24 cookies 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Dough:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

• 1 cup walnuts or pecans, finely chopped
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, ensuring a smooth base for the dough.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: Incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition, then stir in sour cream and vanilla extract to enhance flavor and moisture.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agent and seasoning.
4. Combine Ingredients: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until a soft and pliable dough forms, taking care not to overmix.
5. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up, making it easier to roll and shape.
6. Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, combine finely chopped walnuts or pecans with brown sugar and cinnamon, mixing well for a sweet and spiced filling.
7. Roll Out the Dough: Divide the chilled dough into portions, then roll each portion into a thin rectangular shape on a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking.
8. Add the Filling: Evenly spread the nut and sugar mixture over the rolled-out dough, ensuring full coverage for consistent flavor in each bite.
9. Roll and Slice: Carefully roll the dough into a tight log starting from one end, then slice into individual cookies approximately ½ inch thick for uniform baking.
10. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the cookies at an optimal temperature.
11. Bake the Cookies: Place the sliced cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart, and bake for 15–20 minutes until they turn a golden brown color indicating doneness.
12. Cool and Serve: Transfer the baked cookies to a wire rack to cool completely before serving, allowing them to firm up to the perfect texture.

Notes

• Use softened butter for easier creaming and better texture.
• Ensure the dough is well chilled to make rolling easier and maintain shape during baking.
• Walnuts and pecans can be interchanged depending on preference or availability.
• Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to a week.
• For added flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or substituting brown sugar with maple sugar.

Keywords: Italian cookies, nut-filled cookies, walnut cookies, pecan cookies, cinnamon cookies, baked cookies, holiday cookies