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Rugelach

A beloved Jewish pastry that combines buttery, flaky dough with sweet filling and a satisfying crunch from cinnamon sugar and nuts.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 2432 pieces
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: Jewish
Calories: 145

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 8 ounces cream cheese softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup 2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling and Topping
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
  • 1/4 cup raisins or currants optional
  • 1 egg beaten (for egg wash)
  • 2 tablespoons coarse sugar for sprinkling optional

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Electric mixer or wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rolling pin
  • Parchment paper
  • Baking sheets
  • Small bowl for egg wash
  • Pastry brush
  • Sharp knife or pastry wheel
  • Wire cooling rack

Method
 

  1. Combine the softened cream cheese and butter in a large bowl, then beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 to 3 minutes until light and fluffy.
  2. Add the granulated sugar, salt, and vanilla extract, and mix on low speed for 1 minute until fully incorporated.
  3. Gradually add the flour to the mixture, mixing on low speed just until no dry streaks remain.
  4. Divide the dough into four equal portions, flatten into disks, and chill for at least 2 hours.
  5. While the dough chills, mix the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, chopped nuts, and raisins in a small bowl.
  6. Remove one dough disk from the refrigerator, roll into a thin circle on parchment paper.
  7. Brush rolled dough lightly with water, sprinkle with 2 to 3 tablespoons of the filling.
  8. Roll the dough tightly into a log and cut into 6 to 8 equal pieces.
  9. Place pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet and brush with egg wash.
  10. Refrigerate the assembled rugelach for 15 to 20 minutes.
  11. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for 18 to 20 minutes.
  12. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire cooling rack.

Notes

Serve alongside coffee or tea for a refined treat, or box them up as gifts.