As the eight days of Hanukkah approach, many of us are looking for ways to make our celebrations even more special. One way to do this is by cooking up some delicious and festive dishes to share with family and friends. But what makes Hanukkah recipes so unique? For one thing, they often incorporate traditional ingredients like applesauce, jelly-filled donuts, and latkes – crispy, golden treats that are a staple of the holiday.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 tasty and easy-to-make Hanukkah recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic dishes like brisket and matzo ball soup, to sweet treats like sufganiyot (jelly donuts) and rugelach, there’s something for everyone on this list. So whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for some inspiration, keep reading to discover the perfect recipes to make your Hanukkah celebration truly unforgettable.
Easy Potato Latkes with Applesauce
Easy Potato Latkes with Applesauce
Crunchy potato latkes are a classic Hanukkah treat that pair perfectly with a sweet and tangy applesauce. This recipe is quick, easy, and delicious – perfect for a holiday gathering or any time you need a tasty snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1 onion, grated
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– Applesauce, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine the grated potatoes, onion, egg, flour, and salt. Mix well.
2. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the potato mixture into the oil, forming latkes.
4. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove from the oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Serve warm with applesauce.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Homemade Sufganiyot (Jelly Donuts)
In the spirit of Hanukkah, these sweet and tender sufganiyot are a delicious twist on traditional jelly-filled donuts. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a batch of scrumptious treats to share with family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Jelly or jam of your choice (e.g., raspberry, strawberry, blueberry)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and yeast.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk and eggs.
3. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and mix until smooth batter forms.
4. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop dough into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, until donuts are golden brown and puffed up.
7. Remove from oil with slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
8. Once cool enough to handle, fill with jelly or jam using a piping bag or knife.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total, including frying time.
Simple Baked Apples with Cinnamon
Bake tender and juicy apples filled with a sweet and comforting aroma of cinnamon. This easy recipe is perfect for a cozy evening or a quick breakfast treat.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 apples, cored
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Core the apples and place them in a baking dish.
4. Divide the sugar mixture evenly among the apples, filling the cores with the sweet and spicy mixture.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the apples are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Classic Hanukkah Brisket with Carrots
Celebrate the miracle of light with a tender and flavorful brisket dish that’s sure to become a Hanukkah tradition. This classic recipe combines slow-cooked beef, sweet carrots, and aromatic spices for a mouthwatering main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 (5-pound) beef brisket
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high. Sear brisket until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Add onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add chicken broth, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Braise for 2 1/2 hours or overnight (8-10 hours).
6. About 30 minutes before serving, add sliced carrots to the pot.
7. Remove from heat and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Easy Cheese Blintzes with Berry Sauce
Experience the delight of creamy cheese wrapped in tender crepes, topped with a sweet and tangy berry sauce. This recipe is a classic twist on traditional blintzes, made easy with store-bought crepes.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of crepes (about 20-24 crepes)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) with 2 tablespoons granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together cheese and parsley.
3. Place a crepe on a flat surface and spread about 2-3 tablespoons of the cheese mixture onto the center of the crepe.
4. Roll up the crepe tightly and place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Repeat with remaining crepes and cheese mixture.
6. Drizzle melted butter over the rolled blintzes.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
8. While blintzes are baking, mix berries with sugar and lemon juice.
9. Serve warm blintzes topped with berry sauce and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Quick Chocolate Coins Cookies
Brighten up your day with these chewy cookies filled with chocolate coins – a perfect treat for any time of the year!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 12-15 chocolate coins (such as Hershey’s Kisses)
– Optional: chopped nuts or sprinkles for added flavor and color
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Fold in chocolate coins and optional chopped nuts or sprinkles (if using).
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Simple Roasted Garlic Challah
Elevate your challah game with this simple yet aromatic recipe that combines the richness of roasted garlic with the softness of freshly baked bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 2 cloves roasted garlic (see notes)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until foamy.
3. Add flour, salt, and beaten eggs to the bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
6. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Punch down the dough and roll out into a rectangle. Spread roasted garlic on one half of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border.
8. Fold the other half over the filling and press edges to seal.
9. Brush with olive oil and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Easy Matzo Ball Soup
Warm up with this classic Jewish comfort food! This easy matzo ball soup recipe is a staple of many holiday meals, but it’s also perfect for any cold winter day.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large celery stalk, chopped
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 teaspoons dried parsley
– 2 tablespoons matzo meal
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, carrots, celery, and onion.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together matzo meal and eggs until smooth.
4. Add parsley, salt, and pepper to the mixture and stir well.
5. Drop the matzo ball mixture by spoonfuls into the soup pot.
6. Simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes or until matzo balls are cooked through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick Spinach and Cheese Knishes
Quick Spinach and Cheese Knishes: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Treat!
These bite-sized knishes are packed with fresh spinach and melted cheese, making them the perfect snack or meal accompaniment. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying these tasty treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine spinach, cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Spoon spinach mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling and press edges to seal.
6. Brush with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Simple Honey Glazed Carrots
Elevate your vegetable side dish with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with a hint of honey.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into sticks or bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the carrot pieces with olive oil, salt, and honey until evenly coated.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Arrange the carrots in a single layer.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping them halfway through the cooking time.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Hanukkah Rugelach with Jam
Celebrate Hanukkah with a delicious twist on the classic rugelach recipe, filled with sweet jam and perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup apricot or raspberry jam
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
3. Spread jam evenly over the center of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Sprinkle sugar and salt over jam.
5. Fold edges of pastry up over filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg for golden brown finish.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Allow to cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick Potato Kugel Muffins
A delightful twist on traditional potato kugel, these muffins are perfect for a quick breakfast or snack. With the addition of mashed potatoes and spices, they’re sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup mashed potatoes
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped scallions or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, flour, sugar, and mashed potatoes.
3. Add melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt; mix until smooth.
4. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
5. Bake for 20-22 minutes, or until tops are golden brown and centers are set.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Simple Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes
These bite-sized donut holes are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or as a fun snack for kids and adults alike. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious treat that’s quick to make and always a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Cinnamon sugar (see below)
Cinnamon Sugar:
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop dough into hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, then remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels.
7. While still warm, toss donut holes in cinnamon sugar mixture to coat.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Easy Baked Zucchini Fritters
These crispy and delicious fritters are a great way to enjoy zucchini without the hassle of frying. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a tasty snack or side dish ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, grated
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine grated zucchini, flour, panko breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the beaten egg and mix until well combined.
4. Divide the mixture into 6-8 portions, depending on desired size.
5. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
6. Place the fritters on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with any additional seasonings (if using).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Apple Cider Sufganiyot
These sweet and tangy sufganiyot (jewish donuts) are perfect for a quick dessert or snack. This recipe combines the flavors of apple cider and cinnamon to create a delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons apple cider
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, proof the yeast by mixing it with warm water (105°F-115°F). Let it sit for 5 minutes.
4. Add milk, egg, apple cider, and yeast mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth.
5. Fry the donuts in batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time:
– Frying time: 2-3 minutes per batch
– Cooling time: 10-15 minutes
Simple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pomegranate
A flavorful and nutritious side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted Brussels sprouts with the tartness of pomegranate, creating a deliciously balanced flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup pomegranate arils (seeds)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
4. Remove from the oven and sprinkle pomegranate arils and lemon juice over the top.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Chocolate Babka Twists
Easy Chocolate Babka Twists
Get ready for a sweet surprise! These chocolate-filled twists are an effortless take on the classic babka recipe, with minimal ingredients and no yeast required. Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
3. Melt the chocolate chips and spread evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around.
4. Fold the edges of the pastry inward, then roll the pastry into a log shape.
5. Cut the log into 8-10 equal pieces. Place twists on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each.
6. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Savory Cheese and Herb Latkes
These crispy, flavorful latkes are perfect as a snack or side dish for any occasion. With a blend of savory cheese, fresh herbs, and a hint of garlic, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Grate the potatoes using a box grater or food processor.
2. In a bowl, combine the grated potatoes, cheese, parsley, dill, garlic, and egg. Mix well.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the potato mixture into the oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
6. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to celebrate Hanukkah with these delicious and easy recipes! From classic latkes and sufganiyot (jelly donuts) to savory brisket and sweet rugelach, there’s something for everyone. Other tasty treats include baked apples, cheese blintzes, chocolate coins cookies, roasted garlic challah, matzo ball soup, spinach and cheese knishes, honey glazed carrots, and more. With these quick and festive recipes, you’ll be lighting the menorah in style. Try something new or stick to tradition – either way, you’ll be making memories with your loved ones this Hanukkah.
