Rugelach, a beloved pastry with its roots in Jewish culinary tradition, is a delightful treat often enjoyed during festive gatherings and family celebrations. Originating from Eastern Europe, this crescent-shaped pastry is filled with a variety of delectable fillings, making it a versatile favorite. Whether served as a dessert, a snack with afternoon tea, or a special treat for holidays, rugelach brings warmth and nostalgia with every bite. This homemade version is easy to make and will surely become a cherished recipe in your kitchen.
Tips
Keep the dough cold. It is much easier to roll and the pastry bakes up flakier. Spread the preserves thinly so they don’t leak, roll the wedges tightly, and chill the shaped rugelach for 15 minutes before baking if the kitchen is warm.
Kosher Notes
This rugelach is dairy (milchig) because the dough uses butter and cream cheese, so serve it after a dairy meal or with coffee. Use dairy products and preserves with a reliable hechsher. For a pareve version that can follow a meat meal, use a pareve cream cheese substitute and margarine.
Storage
Rugelach keeps in an airtight container for up to 5 days and freezes well for up to 3 months, baked or unbaked.

Ingredients
What I use for this recipe
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Method
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, butter, cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract.
- Mix until the dough comes together and is smooth. Divide the dough into two equal parts.
- Wrap each portion in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out one portion of the dough on a floured surface into a 1/8-inch thick circle.
- Spread half of the apricot preserves over the rolled-out dough.
- Sprinkle half of the walnuts, brown sugar, and cinnamon evenly over the preserves.
- Cut the dough into 12 wedges, like a pizza. Roll each wedge from the wide end to the narrow end to form a crescent shape.
- Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
- Place the rugelach on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush each piece with beaten egg and sprinkle with granulated sugar.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool on a wire rack before serving.
Notes
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