Old Fashioned Rugulach
Rich and buttery Rugulach cookies with a tender, flaky texture, perfect for festive occasions or as a sweet treat with coffee or tea.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, with mixer set at medium speed, cream butter, cream cheese, and confectioners sugar for 2 to 3 minutes, until light and fluffy.
- Using a wooden spoon, stir in flour, just until blended.
- Divide dough into four pieces and wrap in plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until chilled and firm.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easier blending. If you don't have confectioners' sugar, you can blend granulated sugar in a food processor until fine. To add flavor, consider incorporating vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon into the dough. Keep an eye on your dough while mixing; overworking can lead to tough rugelach.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these rugelach with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack. They also pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. Consider presenting them on a platter alongside other treats like Dottie Martin's Shortbread for a lovely dessert spread at gatherings or brunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover rugelach in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. To reheat, thaw at room temperature and warm in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes for a fresh, flaky texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Fashioned Rugulach contains roughly 1527 calories, with 16g protein, 112g carbohydrates, and 115g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (110% of the Daily Value), protein (32% of the Daily Value), and iron (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! The dough can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. You can also freeze the wrapped dough for up to a month and thaw it in the refrigerator before using.
What fillings can I use in rugelach?
Traditional fillings include fruit preserves, nuts, chocolate, or cinnamon sugar. Feel free to experiment with your favorites, such as apricot jam or a chocolate-hazelnut spread. Just ensure the fillings are spreadable and not too wet to maintain the dough's texture.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Using whole wheat flour can be done, but it may slightly alter the texture, making it denser. If you prefer a lighter result, consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour. This way, you can enjoy the benefits of whole grains while still maintaining a tender crumb.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).