Nut Rolls are classic holiday pastries filled with a rich, nutty mixture and wrapped in tender, buttery dough. Popular in many European traditions, especially Italian, Polish, and Hungarian homes, these rolls are soft, sweet, and beautifully swirled with a spiced walnut or pecan filling. Each slice is moist, fragrant, and perfect for sharing during festive gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
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4 cups all-purpose flour
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½ cup sugar
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1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
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½ teaspoon salt
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¾ cup whole milk, warmed (about 110°F)
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½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
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3 large egg yolks
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling:
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2 cups finely ground walnuts or pecans
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¾ cup sugar
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½ cup milk
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2 tablespoons butter
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1 teaspoon cinnamon
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Finishing:
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1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
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Powdered sugar, for dusting
Cooking Time
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Prep time: 35 minutes
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Rise time: 1 hour 30 minutes
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Bake time: 35–40 minutes
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Total time: about 2 hours 45 minutes
Serving
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Makes 2 large rolls (10–12 slices each)
Instructions
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Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, mix warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. Add the remaining sugar, melted butter, egg yolks, vanilla, and salt. Stir well. Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 5–7 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size. -
Make the Filling:
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, butter, and sugar. Heat until butter melts and sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and stir in ground nuts, cinnamon, and vanilla. Cool slightly before using. -
Roll Out the Dough:
Punch down the risen dough and divide into two equal parts. Roll each portion into a rectangle about 12×8 inches. -
Add the Filling:
Spread half of the nut mixture evenly over each rectangle, leaving a small border around the edges. -
Roll and Seal:
Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the ends to seal. Place seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. -
Second Rise:
Cover loosely with a clean towel and let rise again for about 30 minutes. -
Bake:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush rolls with beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake for 35–40 minutes or until deep golden brown. -
Cool and Serve:
Allow rolls to cool completely before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Nutrition (per slice)
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Calories: 260
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Fat: 14g
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Carbohydrates: 28g
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Protein: 5g
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Sugar: 12g
Tips
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You can substitute honey for part of the sugar in the filling for a deeper flavor.
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To prevent cracks, avoid overfilling and don’t roll the dough too tightly.
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These rolls freeze beautifully — wrap tightly and thaw at room temperature before serving.
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Add a touch of orange zest to the filling for a light citrus aroma.
Tender, buttery, and filled with warm nutty sweetness, Nut Rolls are a comforting and nostalgic treat that taste like home, no matter where you’re celebrating.
