Rugelach is a delightful pastry that has become a favorite treat for many. These flaky, crescent-shaped cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a festive gathering or a cozy family get-together. Today, I’m excited to share with you an easy recipe to make these delicious cookies at home. Let’s dive into the world of Rugelach!
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Before we start baking, gather all the necessary ingredients to make these scrumptious Rugelach cookies.
### Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
- 1 cup nuts (walnuts or pecans), finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup raisins or currants (optional)
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s prepare the dough for the Rugelach. This is a straightforward process that only takes a few minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Add the softened butter and cream cheese, mixing until the dough comes together.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour. This will make it easier to roll out later.
Step 3: Make the Filling
While the dough chills, we can prepare the filling that will give our Rugelach its delicious flavor. Feel free to customize the filling according to your preference!
- In another bowl, mix together the sugar, chopped nuts, cinnamon, and raisins (if using).
- Once mixed, set it aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Rugelach
Let’s roll out the dough and get these cookies assembled. This is where the fun begins!
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- On a floured surface, roll out a portion of the chilled dough into a circle about 1/8 inch thick.
- Spread a layer of the filling over the dough.
- Cut the circle into wedges (like a pizza), and roll each wedge tightly from the wide end to the point.
Step 5: Bake and Enjoy!
After assembling your Rugelach, it’s time to bake them to perfection!
- Place the cookies on a lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let them cool on a wire rack before serving.
Enjoy these delightful Rugelach cookies with a cup of tea or coffee. They also make wonderful gifts for friends and family! Happy baking!