Italian Nut Rolls
Italian Nut Rolls are delightful treats featuring a sweet, nutty flavor with hints of vanilla and almond, perfect for holidays or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine sugar, salt, margarine, egg yolks, vanilla, and almond extract.
- Mix on medium speed for one minute.
- Gradually add flour to the mixture and combine until dough forms.
- Roll dough into one-inch balls.
- Roll each ball into beaten egg whites, then into chopped pecans.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. To enhance the nuttiness, lightly toast the pecans before rolling the dough balls. Ensure the dough is chilled before rolling to help maintain its shape during baking.
Serving Suggestions
These Italian Nut Rolls make an excellent addition to holiday cookie trays or can be enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea. They pair beautifully with Italian recipes such as Italian Sponge Cake or a rich dessert like Knock You Out Vodka Sauce. For an elegant presentation, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store the Italian Nut Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Nut Rolls contains roughly 2510 calories, with 96g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 208g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (192% of the Daily Value), iron (156% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (129% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2119mg per serving (92% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that the texture and taste will vary slightly, so choose a nut that you enjoy.
Are there any egg substitutes I can use in this recipe?
If you're looking for an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) for each egg yolk. This will keep the dough moist and help it bind.
How do I know when the nut rolls are done baking?
The nut rolls are done when they are lightly golden on the bottom and firm to the touch. They should not be overly brown; check them around the 15-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).