Rugalach

A type of Jewish cookie most often made with a delicious cream cheese dough; however, the dough is also prepared with nondairy ingredients so that the cookie can be consumed during or after a meal of meat and still be kosher. The cookie is usually formed into a crescent shape or a rolled shape and is filled with various ingredients including fruit jams, nuts, raisins, cinnamon, or chocolate. The name Rugalach means “creeping vine,” which may be a reference to the shape of the cookie when it is rolled. The cookies are a popular treat during the celebration of Hanukkah. Rugalach is also spelled, Rugelach, Rugulach, Rogelach, and Rugalah.