Easy Rugelach Cookies

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why make this recipe

Rugelach cookies are a delightful treat that bring a taste of tradition to your kitchen. Originating from Eastern European Jewish communities, these cookies are known for their flaky pastry and sweet fillings. Making rugelach at home can be fun and rewarding. Not only are they delicious, but they are also versatile. You can fill them with your favorite jams, nuts, or even chocolate! Since these cookies are small, they’re perfect for sharing or enjoying as a light dessert. Plus, making rugelach is a great way to impress your family and friends with your baking skills.

how to make Easy Rugelach Cookies

Making Easy Rugelach Cookies is quite simple and can be a perfect activity to bake together with kids or friends. The ingredients are straightforward, and the steps are easy to follow. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to do to whip up a batch of these delicious cookies.

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 tsp salt
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup jam (raspberry, apricot, or chocolate)
1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
1 tsp cinnamon
1/4 cup sugar (for topping)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your rugelach will bake evenly.
In a bowl, cream together the butter and cream cheese until smooth. Use a hand mixer or a spatula to mix until fluffy. This will create a nice base for your dough.
Stir in sugar and salt, then gradually add flour to form a dough. Mix until everything is combined and forms a soft dough. It should not be sticky.
Divide the dough into four pieces and roll each into a circle. Use a floured surface to prevent sticking.
Spread jam over each circle. You can use any flavor jam you like—raspberry, apricot, or chocolate all work well!
Sprinkle with nuts and cinnamon sugar. The nuts add crunch and flavor while the cinnamon sugar brings warmth to the cookies.
Cut into wedges and roll each wedge from the wide end to the point. This rolling technique gives the rugelach its distinct shape.
Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and sprinkle with additional sugar. This sugar topping will caramelize as they bake, adding a sweet crunch.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Keep an eye on them towards the end; you want them to be lightly browned but not too dark.
Let cool before serving. This cooling step helps the cookies firm up and makes them easier to pick up.

how to serve Easy Rugelach Cookies

Serving Easy Rugelach Cookies is just as delightful as making them. You can plate them on a beautiful serving dish to showcase their golden-brown color. Perfect for holiday gatherings, tea parties, or casual snack time, these cookies can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy experience.

You can also serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent dessert. If you like, sprinkle a bit of powdered sugar over the top right before serving to give them a charming finishing touch. They are perfect as gifts as well! Pack a few into a decorative box, and you have a wonderful homemade present.

how to store Easy Rugelach Cookies

Storing your Easy Rugelach Cookies properly will help keep them fresh and delicious. Here’s how to do it:

Room Temperature: If you plan to eat them within a week, just store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh for about 5-7 days.
Refrigerator: If you want to keep them longer, you can store them in the refrigerator. They can last for up to two weeks when properly sealed.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze your rugelach cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to serve, let them thaw at room temperature or pop them in the oven for a few minutes to warm up.

tips to make Easy Rugelach Cookies

Ensure your butter and cream cheese are softened: This creates a smoother dough and makes it easier to mix.
Don’t skip the chilling step: If the dough seems soft or sticky while rolling, chill it for a short time in the fridge. This helps the cookies hold their shape when baking.
Experiment with fillings: While jams are traditional, you can use Nutella, chocolate chips, or dried fruits to create unique flavors.
Use fresh nuts: Ensure your nuts are fresh for the best flavor. If they seem stale, toasting them lightly can enhance their taste before mixing them into your cookies.
Adjust spices to your liking: Feel free to add more spices such as nutmeg or cardamom to tweak the flavor profile.
Cut the wedges evenly: To ensure even baking, try to cut the dough into equal-sized wedges. This helps them bake uniformly.
Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Give your cookies enough space when placing them on the sheet to allow for any spread while baking.

variation

While the traditional rugelach is simply delightful, this recipe leaves much room for variation. Here are some ideas:

Nut-Free Version: If you want to make rugelach without nuts, simply omit them or replace them with extra jam or a sprinkle of seeds for a similar crunch.
Chocolate Lovers: Swap out the jam for chocolate chips or a chocolate spread, and use chopped hazelnuts instead of walnuts for a Nutella-inspired version.
Fruit and Cinnamon: Use a mixture of dried fruits such as cranberries, apricots, or raisins along with a sprinkle of cinnamon for a fruity twist.
Savory Rugelach: For those who prefer savory over sweet, try filling the dough with cheese, herbs, and minced olives or sun-dried tomatoes.
Flavored Dough: You can add vanilla extract, almond extract, or even a bit of citrus zest to the dough for added flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I make rugelach dough in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before using it. Just remember to let it soften slightly at room temperature before rolling it out.

2. What is the best jam to use for rugelach?
The best jam is truly up to your personal preference! Raspberry and apricot are traditional choices, but chocolate or even strawberry can also be delicious.

3. How can I tell when the rugelach are done baking?
You’ll know they’re done when they are golden brown around the edges. The bottoms may also appear lightly browned, which is a good indicator of doneness.

4. Can I substitute margarine for butter?
You can substitute margarine for butter, but this may result in a slightly different texture and flavor. Unsalted butter is recommended for the best results.

5. What should I do if my dough is too crumbly?
If your dough is too crumbly, you can add a teaspoon of cold water or milk to help bring it together, but be careful not to add too much.

6. Can I freeze baked rugelach?
Yes, you can freeze baked rugelach! Just make sure they are completely cooled before placing them in an airtight container.

Making Easy Rugelach Cookies can be a joyful experience that fills your home with comforting aromas and sweet flavors. With a little effort, you can enjoy these delightful treats that will surely be a hit with family and friends. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or stored for a later date, rugelach cookies promise smiles all around. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to bake your way to deliciousness! Enjoy!