The holiday season is a magical time filled with delightful treats and warm memories. Hungarian Christmas cookies, with their rich flavors and charming appearances, are sure to bring joy to your festive gatherings. Let’s explore two irresistible recipes that will not only fill your kitchen with delicious aromas but also become new family favorites!
Rugelach

Chocolate Rugelach from Sugar Spun Run
Rating: 4.7 (25 reviews). Total Time: 1 hr 55 min.
Rugelach from Allrecipes
Rating: 4.8 (302 reviews). Total Time: 2 hr 25 min.
Classic Rugelach from Serious Eats
Rating: 3.3 (3 reviews). Total Time: 3 hr 10 min.
Rugelach are delightful, flaky pastries that are rolled up around a sweet filling, making them a perfect treat for any holiday table. These cookies have a wonderful buttery flavor, complemented by the sweetness of the filling, which can be made from nuts, fruit preserves, or chocolate. The baking technique gives these cookies a beautiful golden crust that is simply irresistible.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup finely chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
- 1/2 cup fruit preserves (apricot or raspberry)
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
What makes rugelach so special is their versatility. You can experiment with different fillings based on your family’s preferences, allowing you to create a unique batch every time. Plus, they are a bit of a conversation starter—everyone loves unrolling the dough to reveal the tasty treasures hidden inside. The combination of the rich cream cheese dough and the sweet, nutty filling creates a cookie that’s both comforting and festive, perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Related Videos
Rugelach | Sally's Baking
(youtube.com)
Kifli

Christmas Walnut Crescent Cookies – Hókifli from Culinary Hungary
Rating: 5 (3 reviews). Total Time: 1 h 30 min.
Hungarian Christmas Cookies Recipe from Ann's Entitled Life
Rating: 4.9 (33 reviews). Total Time: 55 min.
Kifli, often known as crescent cookies, are a beloved Hungarian classic that brings a sense of nostalgia to many. With their buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture, these cookies are typically made with a delicious nut filling, often featuring ground walnuts or almonds, which adds a lovely crunch. The gentle sweetness of powdered sugar dusted on top enhances their appeal and makes them a delightful addition to any holiday spread.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup ground walnuts or almonds
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar for dusting
The magic of kifli lies in their simple yet comforting flavor. They are perfect for enjoying with a warm cup of tea or coffee, making them an excellent choice for cozy holiday gatherings. The recipe has been passed down through generations, often becoming a cherished tradition in many Hungarian households. As you bake these cookies, you’ll find yourself wrapped in the warmth of family memories, creating new ones with each delicious bite.








