Rugalah
Rugalach are delightful pastries with a rich cream cheese dough filled with nuts, raisins, cinnamon, and sugar, perfect for sweet snacking or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the cream cheese and butter together.
- Add salt, flour, and sugar; mix until combined.
- Chill the dough until firm, about 30 minutes.
- Divide the dough into 4 equal parts.
- Roll out each part into a rectangle approximately 4 inches wide.
- Sprinkle each rectangle with chopped nuts, raisins, cinnamon, and sugar.
- Roll up each rectangle into a log and brush the top with cinnamon and sugar.
- Cut each log into 1-inch pieces.
- Bake the pieces at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 20 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier dough, ensure your cream cheese and butter are well chilled before creaming. You can substitute the chopped nuts with your favorite seeds or coconut for a different flavor. To add a twist, consider mixing some finely grated citrus zest into the dough or the filling. If you prefer a sweeter filling, add more sugar or chocolate chips.
Serving Suggestions
Serve rugalah warm or at room temperature as a delightful treat alongside your favorite tea or coffee. They pair beautifully with a sweet dessert wine or a rich hot chocolate. For a festive touch, consider serving them on a platter with other baked goods like cookies or pastries, making it a perfect addition to holiday gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover rugalah in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, place the pieces in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through and slightly crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rugalah contains roughly 117 calories, with 1g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 3g fat.
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 rugalah dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rugalah dough in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the dough for up to a month. Just make sure to let it thaw in the refrigerator before rolling it out.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt or a vegan cream cheese alternative. Keep in mind that this may change the texture slightly, so adjust the flour as needed to maintain the dough's consistency.
Can I use different fillings for rugalah?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with fillings. You can use fruit preserves, chocolate spread, or even mix in spices like cardamom or nutmeg. Just ensure that any fillings you choose are not too wet, to maintain the integrity of the dough.
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).