Rugelach | Made by Meaghan Moineau
# Rugelach: A Sweet Taste of Tradition and Togetherness
## Description
Indulge in the delightful world of Rugelach, a classic pastry that brings warmth and nostalgia to any gathering. With a buttery, flaky dough filled with sweet fruit preserves and crunchy walnuts, these bite-sized treats are perfect for any occasion. This blog post not only walks you through the step-by-step process of making these delectable pastries but also shares a cherished family memory that makes Rugelach more than just a dessert—it's a slice of tradition. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
---
### Ingredients
- 1 cup salted butter, softened
- 1 block of cream cheese, softened
- A pinch of salt
- 2.5 cups plain flour
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup caster sugar (for dough)
- 1/2 cup fruit preserves (e.g., orange marmalade)
- 1/2 cup walnuts, finely chopped
- 50g butter, melted (for brushing)
- 1/4 cup caster sugar (for topping)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping)
### Instructions
1. **Preparation**: Leave the butter and cream cheese in a warm place for a couple of hours to soften.
2. **Preheat Oven**: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F).
3. **Mix Dough**: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese until light and fluffy. Add egg yolks, vanilla extract, 1/2 cup of caster sugar, salt, and plain flour. Mix until the dough comes together.
4. **Prepare Walnuts**: Finely chop the walnuts and set aside.
5. **Roll Dough**: Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll one piece into a thin circle and cut into 8 triangles.
6. **Fill and Roll**: Spread fruit preserves on each triangle, sprinkle with walnuts, and roll each piece into a crescent shape.
7. **Cinnamon-Sugar Coating**: Mix 1/4 cup caster sugar and cinnamon. Brush rugelachs with melted butter and coat with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
8. **Bake**: Place rugelachs on a baking tray and bake for 35 minutes or until golden brown.
9. **Cool and Serve**: Allow to cool before storing or serving.
### A Taste of Nostalgia
Every holiday season, my grandmother would gather the family around her cozy kitchen to make Rugelach. The aroma of cinnamon and melting butter would fill the room, creating an atmosphere of warmth and love. As a child, I remember eagerly waiting for the moment when she would let me sprinkle the cinnamon sugar over the freshly rolled pastries, a simple task that felt monumental in my small hands. These moments of togetherness, laughter, and shared stories are etched in my memory, making Rugelach not just a dessert, but a symbol of family unity and joy.
### Difficulty Rating: 6/10
Rugelach is a moderately challenging recipe, perfect for those with some baking experience. The key is to ensure the dough is well-mixed and not overworked, allowing for a tender, flaky pastry.
### Classification: Dessert
With its sweet filling and delightful crunch, Rugelach is a perfect dessert to end any meal on a high note. Serve with a cup of tea or coffee for a truly satisfying treat.
---
Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging in the joy of homemade pastries, Rugelach is a timeless classic that promises to delight. Embrace the tradition, share the love, and enjoy every sweet bite.