Apricot Raspberry Rugelach Bars

My recipe for Apricot Raspberry Rugelach Bars is the perfect combination of buttery pastry and sweet, tart jam. These bars not only capture the essence of traditional rugelach but also offer a modern twist that makes them suitable for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a gathering, or simply craving something delicious, these bars are sure to impress. Their delightful texture and rich flavor will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The cream cheese dough comes together quickly, making preparation a breeze.
• Versatile Options: Fill these bars with your favorite jams or nuts for a personalized touch.
• Perfect for Sharing: Cut into squares, they make an excellent dessert for gatherings or potlucks.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of raspberry and apricot jam creates a uniquely satisfying taste.
• Great Texture: These bars have a wonderful flaky crust that contrasts beautifully with the gooey filling.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Apricot Raspberry Rugelach Bars, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure success in your baking. Having the right equipment makes all the difference in achieving that perfect flaky texture.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Parchment paper
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Plastic wrap

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: This speeds up the mixing process, ensuring your dough comes together smoothly.
• Parchment paper: It prevents sticking and makes it easy to transfer your bars to the baking pan.
• Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out your dough evenly, which is key to even baking.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 3/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut in pieces
• 8 ounces whipped cream cheese
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt

For the Filling

• 1 cup chopped toasted pecans
• 1 1/2 cups raspberry apricot jam, or jam of your choice

For Topping

• 1 egg yolk beaten with a tablespoon of water
• Sparkling sugar

How to Make Apricot Raspberry Rugelach Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Put the butter and cream cheese in a food processor (or use a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment) and pulse until combined. The mixture should be chunky with small lumps of butter remaining.
2. Add the flour and salt. Pulse/process just until the dough comes together—small lumps of butter should still be visible.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

1. On a lightly floured surface, bring the dough together by hand. Divide it into two equal parts.
2. Shape each part into a flat rectangle. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for several hours or overnight.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

1. Place one piece of chilled dough on parchment paper and roll it out into a rectangle about 9×12 inches. Don’t worry about perfection; you can patch any gaps.

Step 5: Add Filling

1. Spread an even layer of jam over the dough, leaving an inch free around the edges.
2. Sprinkle chopped pecans evenly over the jam.

Step 6: Assemble Bars

1. Lift the parchment with dough into your baking pan or onto a baking sheet.
2. Roll out the second piece of dough similarly and place it gently over the first layer. Patch as needed to cover completely.
3. Crimp or roll edges together for security.

Step 7: Bake

1. Brush the top with egg yolk wash and sprinkle generously with sparkling sugar.
2. Bake for about 35 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

1. Let cool before cutting into squares or bars.

Enjoy your delicious Apricot Raspberry Rugelach Bars!

How to Serve Apricot Raspberry Rugelach Bars

These Apricot Raspberry Rugelach Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are hosting a gathering or simply indulging at home, here are some great serving suggestions.

With a Dusting of Powdered Sugar

• Lightly sprinkle powdered sugar over the bars just before serving for a touch of sweetness and elegance.

Paired with Fresh Berries

• Serve with a side of fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries to enhance the fruity flavors of the bars.

Accompanied by Whipped Cream

• A dollop of freshly whipped cream can add a creamy texture that complements the tartness of the jam.

Alongside Tea or Coffee

• Enjoy these bars with a warm cup of tea or coffee, making them perfect for an afternoon snack or dessert.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Include your rugelach bars on a dessert platter with other sweets like cookies and brownies for a delightful variety.

How to Perfect Apricot Raspberry Rugelach Bars

To achieve the best results with your Apricot Raspberry Rugelach Bars, consider these helpful tips.

• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill properly helps maintain its shape during baking and ensures a flaky texture.
• Use Quality Jam: Select high-quality apricot raspberry jam for the best flavor; homemade jam can elevate this recipe even more.
• Don’t Overwork the Dough: Mix until just combined to avoid tough bars. Small lumps of butter should remain for flakiness.
• Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your oven to prevent over-baking; look for a golden brown color as an indicator they’re done.
• Let Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool before cutting, as this helps them hold their shape better when served.

Best Side Dishes for Apricot Raspberry Rugelach Bars

These rugelach bars pair beautifully with various side dishes that complement their sweet and tart flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess contrasts nicely with the fruity rugelach bars, providing a classic dessert experience.
2. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds brightness and balances out the richness of the pastry.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and berries can offer a refreshing contrast when served alongside.
4. Cheese Plate: A selection of soft cheeses, like brie or goat cheese, pairs well with sweet desserts.
5. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling chocolate sauce over the bars can satisfy any chocolate cravings and enhance flavor.
6. Coffee Cake: Serve with slices of coffee cake for an indulgent brunch spread that guests will love.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Apricot Raspberry Rugelach Bars can be a joy, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the chilling step: Not refrigerating the dough can lead to a tough texture. Always chill your dough for several hours or overnight.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can make the bars dense. Combine ingredients until just blended to keep them light and flaky.
• Ignoring the parchment paper: Skipping parchment can lead to sticking. Always line your baking pan with parchment for easy removal.
• Using warm butter: Warm butter can ruin the texture of your dough. Ensure your butter is cold before mixing to achieve the right consistency.
• Not letting them cool: Cutting into them too soon can result in messy bars. Allow your rugelach bars to cool completely before slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing Apricot Raspberry Rugelach Bars

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap, then in foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Apricot Raspberry Rugelach Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in 15-second intervals until warm, being careful not to dry them out.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Apricot Raspberry Rugelach Bars that might help you.

How do I know when my rugelach bars are done?

Look for a golden color on top. The edges should also be slightly crisp while the center remains soft but cooked.

Can I use other jams for these rugelach bars?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different flavors like cherry, peach, or even chocolate spreads for variety.

How do I store leftover Apricot Raspberry Rugelach Bars?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them if you prefer.

Can I make these rugelach bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

These Apricot Raspberry Rugelach Bars offer a delightful twist on traditional recipes. Their sweet-tart filling combined with buttery crust makes them irresistible. Feel free to customize with different jams or nuts based on your preference!