
Classic Rugelach
Traditional Jewish pastry filled with jam, nuts, and cinnamon, rolled into crescent shapes.
30 mins
Prep Time
25 mins
Cook Time
24
Servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup raspberry jam
- 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Nutrition Facts
Instructions
Make the dough: In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. In another bowl, beat butter, cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Gradually add the flour mixture until a dough forms.
Chill the dough: Divide the dough into 4 equal parts, flatten into disks, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Prepare the filling: Mix chopped walnuts, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl. Set aside.
Roll out the dough: On a floured surface, roll one dough disk into a 9-inch circle. Spread a thin layer of raspberry jam, then sprinkle with the walnut mixture.
Cut and roll: Cut the circle into 8 wedges. Roll each wedge from the wide end to the point to form a crescent shape. Repeat with remaining dough.
Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place rugelach on a baking sheet, brush with egg wash, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden. Cool and dust with powdered sugar.
Chef's Tips
- Chilling the dough is crucial for easy handling and flaky texture.
- Use apricot or strawberry jam as alternatives to raspberry.
- For extra shine, brush with egg wash before baking.
- Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
- Freeze unbaked rugelach and bake when needed for fresh pastries.