Russian Rugelach (Mom’s Rogaliki) is a delightful pastry that brings warmth and nostalgia to any kitchen. This traditional treat features a flaky dough rolled around sweet fillings, creating bite-sized delights perfect for sharing or enjoying with your afternoon tea. The origin of this classic recipe traces back to Eastern European Jewish communities, where it has been lovingly passed down through generations. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create these scrumptious pastries at home. Whether you’re looking for a unique dessert to impress guests or a comforting snack to enjoy with family, this rugelach recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making these delicious pastries.
Why You’ll Love This Russian Rugelach (Mom’s Rogaliki)
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Russian Rugelach (Mom’s Rogaliki)
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Use high-quality flour for the best texture; it’s the base of the dough.
- Unsalted Butter: Softened butter adds richness; ensure it’s at room temperature before mixing.
- Cream Cheese: This ingredient helps create a tender dough; use full-fat cream cheese for optimal results.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the dough and filling; adjust based on your taste preference.
- Salt: A pinch enhances flavor; balance is key in sweet recipes.
For the Filling:
- Nuts (walnuts or pecans): Finely chopped nuts add crunch and depth to the filling; toast them lightly for better flavor.
- Dried Fruits (raisins or apricots): Use finely chopped dried fruits to provide natural sweetness; they pair well with nuts.
- Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds warmth and spice; adjust according to your taste.
End with: “The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.”
Découvrez une autre façon de cuisiner ce plat !
How to Make Russian Rugelach (Mom’s Rogaliki)
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour with salt. Add softened butter and cream cheese into the mixture. Blend until smooth using a fork or pastry cutter until you achieve a crumbly texture.
Step 2: Chill the Dough
Shape the dough into a ball and wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least one hour or until firm enough to roll out.
Step 3: Make the Filling
In a separate bowl, mix finely chopped nuts, dried fruits, sugar, and cinnamon until well combined. This mixture will be rolled inside the dough.
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of chilled dough into a circle about an eighth-inch thick.
Step 5: Assemble the Rugelach
Spread an even layer of filling on top of the rolled-out dough circle. Cut it into wedges like pizza slices. Starting from the wider end of each wedge, roll them up towards the tip.
Step 6: Bake the Pastries
Place rolled rugelach on a lined baking sheet. Brush tops with melted butter and sprinkle some sugar over them for extra sweetness. Bake in preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
Transfer to plates and enjoy warm or cooled as delightful treats perfect for any occasion!
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Chill Your Dough: Keeping your dough chilled makes rolling easier and helps maintain flakiness during baking.
- Customize Your Fillings: Feel free to experiment with different nuts or dried fruits based on your preferences.
- Bake in Batches: If making multiple trays of rugelach, bake in batches to ensure even cooking without overcrowding your oven.
Trouvez l’accompagnement parfait pour ce plat ici !
How to Serve Russian Rugelach (Mom’s Rogaliki)
This Russian Rugelach (Mom’s Rogaliki) is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Tea or Coffee: The sweet, flaky pastry complements the warmth and bitterness of your favorite beverages.
- Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast with the rich flavors of the rugelach.
- Fruit Compote: Fresh or cooked fruits add a refreshing taste that balances the sweetness of the filling.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the dough up to two days in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. You can also fill and shape the rugelach, then freeze them for up to three months before baking.
- Storing: Place any leftover rugelach in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about three days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze them for up to three months.
- Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the rugelach on a baking sheet and warm them for about 10-12 minutes until they are heated through and slightly crisp on the outside.
Une autre recette qui fera plaisir à toute la famille !
Suggestions for Russian Rugelach (Mom’s Rogaliki)
Use Room Temperature Ingredients
Using cold ingredients can lead to a tough dough when making Russian Rugelach (Mom’s Rogaliki). Make sure all your ingredients, especially cream cheese and butter, are at room temperature. This allows the fats to blend smoothly with the flour, creating a tender and flaky pastry. If your butter is too hard, consider cutting it into smaller pieces and letting it rest on the counter for a bit. For cream cheese, you can microwave it for just 10-15 seconds to soften it without melting. A well-blended dough will yield a superior end product.
Don’t Overwork the Dough
Overworking the dough is a common mistake that can result in dense Russian Rugelach (Mom’s Rogaliki). When mixing the dough, do so gently until just combined. Knead minimally; too much handling activates gluten, which makes the pastry chewy rather than flaky. If you notice the dough becoming elastic as you work with it, take a step back. Chill the dough after mixing to relax the gluten before rolling it out. This extra step ensures a light texture that melts in your mouth.
Choosing Quality Fillings
The choice of fillings can make or break your Russian Rugelach (Mom’s Rogaliki). Opt for high-quality ingredients like fresh fruit preserves, nuts, and chocolate. Avoid artificial flavors or low-quality chocolates as they can diminish the overall taste of your pastries. If using nuts, toast them lightly beforehand to enhance their flavor. Experiment with combinations that excite your palate; traditional options include apricot jam, walnuts, or cinnamon sugar. The right filling complements the buttery pastry perfectly.
Proper Baking Techniques
Baking time and temperature are crucial for perfecting Russian Rugelach (Mom’s Rogaliki). Preheat your oven adequately before placing the rugelach inside; this ensures even cooking and browning. Keep an eye on them during baking; they should turn golden brown but not overbake. If you notice uneven browning, rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking. Also, let them cool on a wire rack afterward to maintain their crisp texture. Following these techniques will yield beautifully baked rugelach every time.
Testez cette variante pour encore plus de plaisir !
FAQs
What is traditional Russian Rugelach (Mom’s Rogaliki) made of?
Traditional Russian Rugelach (Mom’s Rogaliki) consists of a rich dough made primarily from flour, butter, cream cheese, and sugar. This unique combination gives them their signature flaky texture and slight tanginess from the cream cheese. The fillings can vary widely but often include fruit preserves like apricot or raspberry, chopped nuts such as walnuts or almonds, and spices like cinnamon sugar for added flavor. Making these pastries requires attention to detail in both dough preparation and filling selection to achieve that authentic taste.
How do I store leftover Russian Rugelach (Mom’s Rogaliki)?
To store leftover Russian Rugelach (Mom’s Rogaliki), place them in an airtight container once they’ve cooled completely. They can sit at room temperature for up to three days without losing freshness. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them instead; freeze individual pieces by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to eat, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in an oven until warm.
Can I make Russian Rugelach (Mom’s Rogaliki) ahead of time?
Yes! You can make Russian Rugelach (Mom’s Rogaliki) ahead of time by preparing the dough and fillings separately and storing them in the refrigerator for up to two days before assembling and baking. Alternatively, assemble them completely and freeze unbaked rugelach on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag once frozen solid. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake straight from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time for best results.
What drinks pair well with Russian Rugelach (Mom’s Rogaliki)?
Russian Rugelach (Mom’s Rogaliki) pairs wonderfully with various beverages that complement their sweet richness. A cup of aromatic tea works beautifully—consider black tea varieties like Earl Grey or fruity herbal teas that balance sweetness with floral notes. Coffee lovers may enjoy these pastries alongside a rich espresso or latte that enhances their flavors while providing contrast through bitterness. For something different, try pairing them with dessert wines like Moscato or late-harvest Riesling that echo the sweetness of rugelach.
Un autre incontournable à ajouter à votre liste de recettes !
Conclusion for Russian Rugelach (Mom’s Rogaliki)
In summary, mastering Russian Rugelach (Mom’s Rogaliki) requires attention to detail in every step—from choosing quality ingredients to proper baking techniques. Remember to use room temperature ingredients and avoid overworking your dough for optimal flakiness. Selecting flavorful fillings adds depth and character to each bite while ensuring even baking guarantees visual appeal and deliciousness throughout each batch you create. By following these guidelines along with answering common questions about storage and pairings, you’ll be well on your way to impressing friends and family with these delightful pastries! Enjoy sharing this treat during gatherings or as an everyday snack!

Russian Rugelach (Mom’s Rogaliki)
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 servings 1x
Description
Russian Rugelach, also known as Mom’s Rogaliki, are delightful pastries that blend a flaky, cream cheese-infused dough with a rich filling of nuts and dried fruits. These bite-sized treats are steeped in Eastern European tradition and are perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy afternoon tea. The dough’s buttery texture pairs beautifully with customizable fillings like walnuts, raisins, and cinnamon, making each bite a flavorful experience. With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, this authentic rugelach recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite in your home.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup finely chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
- 1/2 cup dried fruits (raisins or apricots)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Blend in softened butter and cream cheese until smooth.
- Shape the mixture into a ball, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least one hour.
- In another bowl, mix chopped nuts, dried fruits, sugar, and cinnamon to create the filling.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out chilled dough into an eighth-inch thick circle on a floured surface.
- Spread the filling evenly on the dough; cut into wedges and roll from wide end to tip.
- Place rolled rugelach on a lined baking sheet; brush with melted butter and sprinkle with sugar. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
Notes
Consider using different nuts or dried fruits for personalized flavors.
To enhance crispiness, chill dough thoroughly before rolling.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Eastern European
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Leave a Comment