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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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Find it online: https://biteandenjoy.com/italian-cookies-recipe/