Decadent Chocolate Walnut Rugelach Recipe

Chocolate Walnut Rugelach

Looking for a delightful pastry that combines rich chocolate with the crunch of walnuts? Chocolate walnut rugelach is your answer! This classic Jewish pastry is not only easy to make but also brings a sense of nostalgia every time you take a bite. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings, brunches, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Picture this: a flaky, buttery dough rolled up with a luscious chocolate filling and crunchy walnut pieces. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures, with the crisp exterior giving way to a rich, melt-in-your-mouth interior. Your kitchen will be filled with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked pastries, making it hard to resist indulging in a few before they even cool.

A Sweet Twist on a Classic Pastry

Chocolate walnut rugelach brings a delightful mix of textures and flavors to the table. This pastry features a flaky dough that cradles a rich filling of chocolate and crunchy walnuts.

Its unique shape and combination of ingredients make it a treat that stands out during gatherings or casual afternoons alike.

As these pastries bake, their buttery aroma fills the kitchen, inviting everyone in the house to take a sneak peek.

There’s something special about enjoying rugelach, warm from the oven, that evokes fond memories and creates new ones.

The Flaky Dough: A Foundation of Flavor

The dough for rugelach is crucial, providing the perfect base for the delicious filling. Combining flour with softened butter and cream cheese results in a silky, rich texture that rolls out beautifully.

This dough is not only easy to work with but also contributes a subtle tang that enhances the overall flavor of the pastry.

After mixing, chilling the dough for an hour allows it to firm up, making it easier to roll out into circles that will hold the filling.

Decadent Filling Choices

A classic chocolate walnut filling is a delightful choice, but the options are as varied as your imagination.

The combination of semi-sweet chocolate chips and finely chopped walnuts offers a rich experience in every bite.

Add in some brown sugar and a sprinkle of cinnamon, and you have a filling that’s both warm and inviting.

Each ingredient complements the others, creating a synergy that elevates this sweet treat.

Crafting the Rugelach: An Artful Process

Creating rugelach involves a simple yet satisfying process. Once the dough is rolled out, a thin layer of the filling is spread across the surface.

The dough is then cut into wedges, much like a pie, and each wedge is rolled up tightly from the wide end to the point.

This process not only shapes the pastries but also ensures that every bite is filled with a delightful mix of chocolate and nuts.

Baking to Golden Perfection

Baking the rugelach is where the magic happens. As they cook, the pastries transform into golden-brown delights, with their enticing aroma filling the air.

Brushing them with a beaten egg before baking enhances their color and gives them a slight sheen, making them visually appealing.

After about 20 to 25 minutes in the oven, they emerge ready to be dusted with powdered sugar, adding a touch of elegance.

Serving Suggestions for a Cozy Experience

Presenting chocolate walnut rugelach is a treat in itself. Arranging them on a rustic wooden table alongside a steaming cup of coffee creates an inviting atmosphere.

Whether they’re served at a holiday gathering or enjoyed during a quiet afternoon, these pastries are sure to delight.

Pairing them with a warm beverage enhances the experience, making it a moment to savor.

A Sweet Twist on a Classic Pastry

Plate of chocolate walnut rugelach pastries, golden-brown and dusted with powdered sugar, served with coffee.

These chocolate walnut rugelach are a delightful combination of flaky dough, rich chocolate, and crunchy walnuts. The pastries are baked to golden perfection, making them a delightful treat for any occasion.

With their unique shape and delectable filling, these rugelach are not only delicious but also an impressive addition to any dessert spread.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups almond flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup walnuts, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a bowl, mix the flour and salt. In another bowl, beat together the softened butter, cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Gradually add the flour mixture until just combined. Divide the dough into four equal pieces, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  2. Make the Filling: In a small bowl, combine the chocolate chips, walnuts, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Set aside.
  3. Roll Out the Dough: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out one piece of dough into a circle about 1/8 inch thick. Spread a thin layer of the chocolate filling over the surface.
  4. Cut and Shape: Cut the dough into 8 wedges (like a pizza). Starting from the wide end, roll each wedge tightly towards the point. Place the rugelach on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
  5. Brush and Bake: Brush each rugelach with the beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Let them cool on a wire rack.
  6. Serve: Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired. Enjoy your chocolate walnut rugelach with a cup of coffee or tea!

Cook and Prep Times

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (including chilling time)

Nutrition Information

  • Servings: 32 pieces
  • Calories: 150kcal
  • Fat: 10g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
Chocolate Walnut Rugelach

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top