Tender cream cheese pastry wrapped around a sweet, nutty poppy seed filling, these bite-sized cookies are a classic Jewish treat perfect for holidays or any occasion.
45 min prep
20 min cook
48 servings
110 kcal/serving
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
8 ounces cream cheese, cold and cut into small pieces
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup poppy seeds
1/2 cup raisins, chopped
1/4 cup honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
2 tablespoons coarse sugar (for sprinkling)
Instructions
Make the dough: In a food processor, pulse flour and salt. Add butter and cream cheese; pulse until dough just comes together. Shape into a disk, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate at least 2 hours or overnight.
Make the filling: In a small bowl, combine poppy seeds, raisins, honey, vanilla, and cinnamon. Set aside.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Divide dough into 4 equal pieces. On a lightly floured surface, roll one piece into a 9-inch circle. Spread 1/4 of the filling over the dough, leaving a 1/4-inch border.
Cut the circle into 12 wedges (like a pizza). Starting from the wide end, roll up each wedge tightly. Place point-side down on prepared baking sheet, spacing 1 inch apart.
Brush rugelach with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar.
Bake for 18-22 minutes, until golden brown. Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire rack to cool completely.
Tips
For best results, keep dough cold; if it softens, refrigerate briefly before rolling.
Rugelach can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or frozen for up to 3 months.
Substitute raisins with dried apricots or cranberries if desired.