Apple Butter Rugelach Recipe: A Sweet and Spiced Delight

Apple Butter Rugelach brings warmth to your kitchen with its delightful aroma and flaky texture. These crescent-shaped pastries are filled with sweet apple butter, nuts, and spices, making them the perfect treat for cozy gatherings or a comforting snack. Enjoy a taste of fall with this delicious recipe!

When the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, it’s time to embrace the warmth of the kitchen.

One of the best ways to do that is with the delightful aroma of baking Apple Butter Rugelach.

These flaky, crescent-shaped pastries are filled with sweet apple butter, nuts, and spices, making them perfect for cozy gatherings or a comforting snack.

The Origins of Apple Butter Rugelach

Rugelach, which means “little twists” in Yiddish, is a traditional pastry that has its roots in Jewish cuisine. It is believed to have originated in Eastern Europe and has been enjoyed for generations. The pastry dough is usually rich in butter and cream cheese, creating a tender and flaky texture that melts in your mouth.

Over time, rugelach has been adapted to include various fillings, ranging from fruit preserves to chocolate. In this recipe, apple butter takes center stage, providing a unique twist that perfectly complements the buttery pastry.

Apple Butter Rugelach Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Apple Butter Rugelach, gather the following ingredients:

Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the base of the dough.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and flakiness.
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: Adds creaminess and tenderness.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough.

Filling:

• 1 cup apple butter: The star ingredient that adds sweetness and spice.
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans): Adds texture and crunch.
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Infuses warmth and flavor.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar: Enhances the sweetness and adds depth.

Topping:

• 1 egg, beaten: To brush on the pastries for a golden finish.
• Powdered sugar for dusting: Optional, for presentation.

Apple Butter Rugelach: Step-by-Step Instructions

1: Prepare the Dough

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt.
2. Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese: In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy. You can use an electric mixer or mix by hand with a spatula.
3. Add Sugar: Gradually add the granulated sugar to the butter mixture, continuing to beat until well incorporated.
4. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Slowly add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the dough tender.
5. Chill the Dough: Divide the dough into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight. Chilling helps the dough firm up and makes it easier to roll out.

2: Prepare the Filling

1. Mix the Filling Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the apple butter, chopped nuts, cinnamon, and brown sugar. Stir until well blended. This mixture will provide a flavorful filling for the rugelach.

3: Roll Out the Dough

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Roll the Dough: Remove one disc of dough from the refrigerator. On a lightly floured surface, roll it out into a 1/8-inch thick circle.
3. Spread the Filling: Evenly spread half of the apple butter filling over the dough circle, leaving a small border around the edges.

4: Cut and Shape the Rugelach

1. Cut into Triangles: Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, slice the dough into 8 equal wedges, like cutting a pizza.
2. Roll the Triangles: Starting from the wide end of each triangle, roll the dough towards the point. Place the rolled rugelach on the prepared baking sheet, point side down to help them hold their shape during baking.
3. Repeat with the Second Disc: Roll out the second disc of dough and repeat the filling, cutting, and rolling process.

5: Bake the Rugelach

1. Brush with Egg: Gently brush the tops of the rugelach with the beaten egg to give them a golden color while baking.
2. Bake: Bake the rugelach for 25-30 minutes or until they are lightly golden brown.
3. Cool: Remove the rugelach from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

6: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Dust with Powdered Sugar: Once cooled, sprinkle the rugelach with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and elegance.
2. Serve: Enjoy these delicious Apple Butter Rugelach with coffee, tea, or as a delightful snack anytime.

Tips for Perfect Rugelach

• Chill the Dough: Always chill the dough before rolling it out. This keeps it firm and prevents it from becoming too soft and sticky.
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to get creative with the fillings. Other options like fruit preserves, chocolate chips, or nuts can be delicious substitutes.
• Storage: Store any leftover rugelach in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze them for up to three months.

Alternative Apple Butter Rugelach Recipes

Here are three alternative Apple Butter Rugelach recipes to inspire your baking:

1. Chocolate Hazelnut Rugelach

Ingredients:

• Dough:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• Filling:
  • 1 cup chocolate hazelnut spread (e.g., Nutella)
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped hazelnuts
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for sprinkling)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the dough as described above.
2. Roll out the dough and spread the chocolate hazelnut spread evenly over it.
3. Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts and cinnamon on top.
4. Cut into wedges, roll, and bake as directed.

2. Rugelach alternative : Cinnamon Raisin Rugelach

Ingredients:

• Dough:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• The Filling:
  • 1 cup raisins (or chopped dried fruit)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the dough as described above.
2. Roll out the dough and spread a mixture of raisins, cinnamon, and sugar evenly.
3. Optionally, add chopped walnuts for added texture.
4. Cut into wedges, roll, and bake as directed.

3. – Apple Butter Rugelach alternative : Apricot Almond Rugelach

Ingredients:

• Dough:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• Filling:
  • 1 cup apricot preserves
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped almonds
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar

Instructions:

1. Prepare the dough as described above.
2. Roll out the dough and spread the apricot preserves evenly over it.
3. Sprinkle chopped almonds and brown sugar on top, then drizzle with vanilla extract.
4. Cut into wedges, roll, and bake as directed.

Why You’ll Love Apple Butter Rugelach

These Apple Butter Rugelach are not just delicious; they’re also versatile and easy to make. They’re perfect for sharing at gatherings, enjoying with family, or even gifting during the holidays. The combination of the rich, buttery pastry with the sweet and spiced apple butter filling creates a comforting treat that captures the essence of fall.

Apple Butter Rugelach (FAQs)

1. Can I use store-bought apple butter?

Absolutely! Store-bought apple butter is a convenient option and works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to choose a high-quality brand for the best flavor.

2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to two days before rolling and baking.

3. What nuts work best for the filling?

Walnuts and pecans are commonly used, but you can also experiment with almonds or hazelnuts for different flavors.

4. Can I freeze the Apple Butter Rugelach ?

Yes! Baked rugelach can be frozen in an airtight container. Just thaw them at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

5. What can I serve with Apple Butter Rugelach?

These pastries pair beautifully with coffee, tea, or even a scoop of ice cream for dessert.

6. Can I substitute cream cheese?

While cream cheese adds a unique flavor and texture, you can substitute it with mascarpone or a dairy-free alternative if needed.

7. How do I prevent the Apple Butter Rugelach from unrolling while baking?

Ensure that you roll the rugelach tightly and place them seam-side down on the baking sheet. Brushing the tops with egg wash helps seal them as well.

---

Enjoy your time baking these delightful Apple Butter Rugelach, and don’t hesitate to experiment with the filling to create your own unique versions!