Chocolate rugelach is like a little hug in pastry form, with its flaky layers enveloping rich chocolate goodness. Picture the aroma wafting through your kitchen, making it nearly impossible to resist grabbing one… or three. chocolate eclairs recipe This delightful treat isn’t just for special occasions; it’s perfect for cozy afternoons or as a sweet companion on your next Netflix binge. s’mores sliders for dessert.
My first encounter with chocolate rugelach was at my grandma’s house, where I learned that nothing brings family together quite like the promise of freshly baked treats. I still remember the joy on my cousin’s face when he took his first bite—pure bliss. Mint Oreo cheesecake pairing It’s moments like these that make baking feel magical, and I can guarantee this recipe will create unforgettable memories for you too!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Chocolate rugelach is simple to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for bakers of all levels
- The combination of buttery dough and chocolate filling creates an irresistible flavor profile
- Visually, these pastries are stunningly beautiful and sure to impress your guests
- Enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or even breakfast—the versatility is endless!
I recall my friends exclaiming how they could eat an entire tray in one sitting—now that’s a compliment worth savoring!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
All-Purpose Flour: Essential for creating that flaky dough; make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
Unsalted Butter: Use cold butter for flakiness, and feel free to cut it into small pieces before mixing.
Cream Cheese: Adds richness and tenderness to the dough; choose full-fat for optimal flavor. blueberry cheese danish.
Granulated Sugar: A touch of sweetness in the dough balances out the rich chocolate filling.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor profile; opt for pure vanilla extract if possible.
Bittersweet Chocolate Chips: The star of our rugelach; they should be high-quality for maximum flavor.
Cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth to the filling; use fresh ground cinnamon for best results.
Pecan Pieces (optional): For added crunch and nutty flavor; chop them finely before adding.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare the Dough: Start by mixing flour and salt in a bowl. Cut in cold butter and cream cheese until crumbly. Add sugar and vanilla; combine until smooth. Chill for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, divide chilled dough into two pieces. Roll each piece into a circle about 1/8 inch thick. Try not to stretch it too much—the goal is to keep all that flakiness intact! For more inspiration, check out this Strawberry Delight Cake Roll recipe.
Add the Filling: Spread softened butter over each rolled-out circle. Sprinkle with sugar, cinnamon, chocolate chips, and pecans if using. Don’t hold back—this is where you create that decadent layer of flavor!
Create Rugelach Shapes: Cut each circle into wedges (like slicing a pizza). Starting from the wide end of each wedge, roll tightly toward the point. Place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake Your Treats: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rugelach for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown and fragrant. Let them cool slightly before serving—a challenge given their mouthwatering aroma!
Enjoy & Share!: These chocolate rugelach are best enjoyed warm but can also be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for several days—if they last that long! Share them with friends or savor every last bite yourself.
This scrumptious recipe will easily become a favorite in your household! Happy baking!
You Must Know
- Chocolate rugelach is not just a treat; it’s a delightful journey through flaky dough and rich chocolate
- The aroma alone can make your kitchen feel like a cozy café, inviting everyone to gather around the table and indulge in these delicious bites
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the dough while letting it chill. Roll into triangles, fill with chocolate, and then bake until golden brown for the best results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap chocolate with fruit preserves or nuts for a unique twist. Adding spices like cinnamon can enhance flavor and warmth.
Storing & Reheating
Store chocolate rugelach in an airtight container at room temperature. For reheating, pop them in the oven briefly to regain their crispness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Make sure your butter is cold for flaky layers; this makes a world of difference
- A light hand when rolling helps maintain the dough’s integrity
- Don’t skip chilling time; it’s essential for achieving that perfect texture
Baking these chocolate rugelach always brings back memories of family gatherings where everyone fought over the last piece. The joy on their faces was priceless! For more inspiration, check out this Butterfinger Bliss Cookies recipe.
FAQ
Can I use other fillings besides chocolate?
Absolutely! Try fruit jams, nuts, or even marzipan for diverse flavors.
How do I know when they are done baking?
Look for a golden-brown color and a delightful aroma filling your kitchen.
Can I freeze chocolate rugelach?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking or after they cool down completely.
Indulge in Chocolate Rugelach
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 servings 1x
Description
Chocolate rugelach are delightful pastries boasting flaky layers that embrace rich, melted chocolate. These treats bring warmth to your kitchen and make the perfect accompaniment for cozy afternoons or movie nights. Easy to prepare and endlessly versatile, this recipe is sure to create sweet memories with every bite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup bittersweet chocolate chips
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup pecan pieces (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a bowl, mix flour and salt. Cut in cold butter and cream cheese until crumbly. Add sugar and vanilla; blend until smooth. Chill for 30 minutes.
- Roll Out the Dough: Divide chilled dough into two pieces. Roll each into a circle about 1/8 inch thick.
- Add the Filling: Spread softened butter on each circle, then sprinkle with sugar, cinnamon, chocolate chips, and pecans.
- Create Rugelach Shapes: Cut each circle into wedges and roll tightly from the wide end.
- Bake Your Treats: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Jewish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 rugelach (25g)
- Calories: 118
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 18mg
Keywords: Experiment with different fillings like fruit jams or nuts for variety. Ensure your butter is very cold for optimal flakiness. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze them for later enjoyment.
