Rugelach

Rugelach is a traditional Jewish food that is eaten any time of year, including, but not limited to Shabbat.  

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup cottage cheese
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1 cup all-purpose flour 
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1/4 cup and 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup and 2 tablespoons chopped pecans
• 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
• 1 tablespoon and 1-1/2 teaspoons orange marmalade (optional)
• 1/2 egg white
• 1 tablespoon water

Directions

1. Combine cottage cheese and 1 cup of butter in a bowl. Mix thoroughly, then gradually stir in the flour. Dough will be sticky. Divide dough into thirds and wrap with waxed paper. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
2. Preheat an oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Lightly grease a baking sheet.
3. Combine the remaining 1/4 cup of butter with the brown sugar, cinnamon, pecans, and raisins. Set aside. Roll one ball of dough at a time to a 9 inch circle on a floured surface, while keeping the remaining dough chilled. Cut the circle into wedges.  Spread 1 tablespoon of the optional orange marmalade over the circle. Gently press 1/3 of the nut mixture into the dough.  Roll each wedge tightly, starting with the wide end. Place the cookie point-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining dough. Beat the egg white with the water in a small bowl, then brush the mixture onto each cookie.
4. Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown, 18 to 20 minutes.