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–+ servings

Traditional Hanukkah Rugelach With Cinnamon Sugar Filling

Whip up a batch of classic Hanukkah rugelach with our simple step-by-step recipe, and create a sweet centerpiece for your holiday table!
Servings 24
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl (For combining ingredients for the dough.)
  • Rolling Pin (For rolling out the chilled dough.)
  • Baking sheet (For placing the rugelach before baking.)
  • Parchment paper (For lining the baking sheet to prevent sticking.)
  • Sharp Knife (For cutting the dough into wedges.)
  • Pastry Brush (For applying the egg wash to the rugelach.)

Ingredients

  • 2 cup all-purpose flour
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ cup granulated sugar (for filling)
  • 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 cup walnuts (or pecans, finely chopped - optional)
  • 1 egg (beaten, for **egg wash**)

Instructions

  • Mix Flour and Salt Together
    To get started on your rugelach, you'll want to mix the flour and salt together in a mixing bowl. This step is simple but essential, as it guarantees your dough has the right texture. You can use different flour types, like all-purpose or even a bit of whole wheat, depending on your preference. Just remember, all-purpose flour gives you that perfect balance of tenderness and structure.
    Now, sprinkle in about 1/4 teaspoon of your favorite salt variety—kosher salt works beautifully here. Don't skip this part; the salt enhances the flavors and brings everything to life. Grab a whisk and blend the two together until they're well combined.
    Can you feel the excitement building? It's amazing how such simple ingredients can create something so delightful!
    Once you've mixed them, you'll be ready to move on to the next step of creating your rugelach dough. It's a little like magic, isn't it? Just remember, the better your initial mix, the tastier your treats will be. Trust me, those little bites of joy will be worth the effort.
    Now, let's roll up our sleeves and keep going!
  • Roll Out Dough Evenly
    After mixing the flour and salt, it's time to roll out the dough evenly. You want to achieve that perfect dough consistency, which means it should be pliable yet slightly firm.
    Grab your rolling pin and lightly dust your surface with flour to prevent sticking. Begin with one piece of chilled dough, and don't rush—take your time to roll it into a circle about 1/8 inch thick.
    Are you feeling the texture yet? It should be smooth and soft, almost like a canvas waiting for a masterpiece. Use gentle, even pressure as you roll, making sure to rotate the dough occasionally. This rolling technique helps guarantee that you don't end up with thicker edges—nobody wants a dough mountain on their rugelach!
    If you feel the dough sticking, sprinkle a bit more flour, but be cautious; too much can affect the outcome.
    Once you've got that lovely circle, you're ready to sprinkle on the cinnamon-sugar filling. It's all about the journey, so enjoy this moment of creation. You're one step closer to delicious rugelach!
  • Fill and Roll Dough
    With your dough rolled out to the perfect thickness, it's time to sprinkle on the cinnamon-sugar filling. Imagine the sweet aroma that'll soon fill your kitchen! Grab that filling mixture and evenly distribute it across your dough.
    As you sprinkle, use gentle pressure to help it stick—this is one of those satisfying filling techniques that makes all the difference.
    Once the filling is in place, it's time to slice. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough into 8 equal wedges, just like you'd with a pizza. The goal is to create nice, even triangles so they roll up beautifully.
    Starting from the wide end of each wedge, roll it up toward the tip, tucking it in lightly. As you roll, keep an eye on the dough consistency; it should remain smooth and pliable, not cracking or tearing.
    Place your rolled rugelach on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about an inch of space between them. You're almost there! Just think about how delicious these will be once baked.
    Ready for the next step? You've got this!
  • Brush With Egg Wash
    Now it's time to give your rugelach that beautiful golden finish. Brushing your pastries with an egg wash isn't just a step; it's a secret weapon. You'll love how it enhances their appearance, achieving that irresistible shine that makes them look bakery-fresh.
    Plus, the egg wash benefits go beyond just looks—it helps create a delightful crust that's both crisp and golden.
    Grab your pastry brush, dip it into the beaten egg, and gently coat the tops of each rugelach. Be careful not to drench them; a light layer is all you need for that perfect shine. Imagine the excitement when everyone sees those glossy tops glistening in the light!
    It's a small touch that makes a big difference, turning your homemade treats into something truly special.
    As you brush, think about the joy these rugelach will bring to your holiday table. Each bite will be a reminder of love and tradition, and that's something worth celebrating.
  • Bake Until Golden Brown
    Once your rugelach are beautifully brushed with egg wash, it's time to slide them into the oven. Feel that excitement? You're on the brink of something delicious!
    Set your timer for 20-25 minutes, but keep an eye on them. You want that perfect golden crust—like the warm glow of a cozy fireplace.
    As they bake, you'll notice the sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste. But trust me, the wait is worth it!
    If you want to guarantee even baking, rotate the baking sheet halfway through. It's one of those handy baking tips that makes a difference.
    When the rugelach emerge from the oven, they should be a beautiful golden brown. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes; they'll firm up a bit, making them easier to transfer.
    Then, move them to a wire rack to cool completely. Can you imagine the joy when you share these little treats with family and friends? Each bite will transport them to a place of warmth and celebration.
    Enjoy the moment—you've just created something truly special!

Nutrition

Calories: 199kcalCarbohydrates: 16gProtein: 3gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0.3gCholesterol: 37mgSodium: 58mgPotassium: 52mgFiber: 1gSugar: 7gVitamin A: 375IUVitamin C: 0.1mgCalcium: 22mgIron: 1mg
Calories: 199kcal
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Jewish
Keyword: Hanukkah Baking, Hanukkah Desserts, Hanukkah Rugelach, Hanukkah Traditions, Jewish Holiday Recipes