Get ready to light up your holiday season with these 20 delicious Hanukkah recipes! As the Festival of Lights approaches, it’s time to dust off your favorite traditions and cooking techniques. From classic potato latkes and crispy cheese-filled sufganiyot to sweet treats like homemade hanukkah jelly doughnuts and decadent chocolate rugelach pastries, we’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re hosting a big gathering or just want to add some festive flair to your family’s celebrations, these recipes are sure to bring joy and satisfaction. And who knows – you might even discover some new favorites!
Stay tuned for our ultimate Hanukkah recipe roundup, featuring dishes that will make your taste buds do the dreidel dance.
Classic Potato Latkes with Applesauce
A Hanukkah tradition, potato latkes are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, served with a sweet and tangy applesauce for a perfect pairing.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Applesauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Grate the potatoes and onion.
2. In a bowl, combine grated mixture, eggs, flour, and salt. Mix well.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of potato mixture into the oil, forming patties.
5. Cook latkes for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain latkes on paper towels and serve hot with applesauce.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes (depending on the size of latkes).
Crispy Cheese-Filled Sufganiyot
Crispy Cheese-Filled Sufganiyot Recipe
Summary: Sufganiyot are traditional Jewish jelly-filled doughnuts, but this recipe puts a cheesy twist by filling them with melted cheddar and mozzarella cheese. The crispy exterior and gooey center make for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup whole milk, lukewarm
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and yeast.
2. Gradually add milk, egg, and melted butter; mix until smooth.
3. Knead dough for 5-7 minutes until elastic.
4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oil to 375°F (190°C).
6. Roll out dough to 1/4-inch thickness; cut into desired shapes.
7. Fry donuts for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
8. Drain excess oil and fill with melted cheese mixture.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Homemade Hanukkah Jelly Doughnuts
Celebrate the Festival of Lights with a deliciously crispy and chewy jelly doughnut recipe, perfect for sharing with family and friends. This classic treat is infused with the sweet and tangy flavors of jelly, making it an irresistible addition to your Hanukkah celebration.
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., strawberry, raspberry, or apricot)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and yeast.
2. Gradually add milk, eggs, and mix until smooth.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes, then cover and let rise in a warm place for about an hour.
4. Heat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
5. Roll out the dough to 1/4 inch thickness and cut into desired shapes.
6. Fry doughnuts for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
7. Allow to cool before filling with jelly or jam.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve warm.
Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes (including rising time)
Golden Fried Potato Kugel
This recipe adds a crispy twist to the traditional potato kugel, perfect for a snack or side dish. Golden Fried Potato Kugel is a flavorful and satisfying treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon golden syrup (or honey)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine grated potatoes, flour, salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Add the beaten egg and mix until well combined.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the potato mixture into the oil, flattening slightly to form patties.
5. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Serve warm with a drizzle of golden syrup (or honey).
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sweet and Savory Brisket with Honey Glaze
Sweet and Savory Brisket with Honey Glaze Recipe
Get ready to impress your family and friends with this mouth-watering brisket recipe, perfectly balanced between sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef brisket
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon kosher salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the brisket, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the brisket for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
5. Transfer the brisket to the preheated oven and cook for 2 hours.
6. Meanwhile, whisk together honey and garlic.
7. Remove the brisket from the oven and brush with the honey glaze.
8. Return the brisket to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Serve hot and enjoy!
Traditional Hanukkah Challah Bread
Celebrate the Festival of Lights with a delicious and classic challah bread recipe, perfect for your Hanukkah celebrations. This sweet braided bread is a staple in Jewish cuisine, symbolizing unity and love.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons poppy seeds (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and sugar.
2. Gradually add warm water, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Add melted butter, beaten egg, and salt; mix until smooth.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until elastic.
5. Divide into three equal portions and roll each into a long rope.
6. Braid the ropes together, tucking ends under.
7. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each braid.
8. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled.
9. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Crunchy Onion and Zucchini Fritters
Crunchy Onion and Zucchini Fritters Recipe
Summary: These crispy fritters are packed with caramelized onions, zucchini, and a hint of parmesan cheese. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 medium zucchinis, grated
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the sliced onions over medium-low heat until caramelized and golden brown (about 20-25 minutes).
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the grated zucchini, cooked onions, and parmesan cheese to the bowl. Mix well.
4. Pour in the beaten egg and mix until the mixture forms a thick batter.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the batter into the oil (about 1/4 cup each).
7. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
9. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Decadent Chocolate Rugelach Pastries
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these rich and buttery rugelach pastries, filled with a velvety chocolate center. Perfect for a special treat or dessert to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into 12 equal squares.
3. In a small bowl, mix together chocolate chips, butter, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Place a tablespoon of the chocolate mixture in the center of each square. Fold the dough over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
5. Brush tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water) and sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar if desired.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fluffy Matzo Ball Soup
This classic Jewish soup is a comforting and nourishing treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender matzo balls and rich chicken broth, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup matzo meal
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, matzo meal, and egg. Mix well.
3. Gradually add chicken broth and oil, stirring until a dough forms.
4. Wet hands and shape into small balls.
5. Place matzo balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly browned.
6. In a large pot, combine garlic, carrots, celery, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
7. Add cooked matzo balls to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Herbed Roasted Chicken with Schmaltz
Herbed Roasted Chicken with Schmaltz Recipe
Savor the flavors of a classic roasted chicken infused with fresh herbs and schmaltz, a.k.a. rendered chicken fat.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs), patted dry
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp schmaltz (rendered chicken fat)
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, schmaltz, parsley, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure it’s evenly coated.
4. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
5. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Baste the chicken with the juices every 20 minutes to keep it moist.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Caramelized Apple and Cinnamon Noodle Kugel
Caramelized Apple and Cinnamon Noodle Kugel Recipe: A sweet and savory twist on the classic Jewish dish, this kugel combines tender noodles with caramelized apples and a hint of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz egg noodles
– 2 large apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced apples and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally, about 10-12 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add cooked noodles and toss to combine.
5. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the noodle mixture in the bottom. Top with caramelized apples, then sprinkle with remaining noodle mixture.
6. Pour heavy cream over the top and sprinkle with chopped pecans (if using).
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Servings: 8-10
Spiced Hanukkah Honey Cake
Celebrate the Festival of Lights with this sweet and aromatic cake, infused with the warmth of spices and the golden nectar of honey.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together honey and egg until well combined.
4. Add the melted butter to the honey mixture and whisk until smooth.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Savory Cheese and Spinach Bourekas
These crispy and flavorful pastry pockets are filled with a delicious combination of melted cheese, wilted spinach, and savory spices. Perfect for a quick snack or as an accompaniment to your favorite soups and salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1/2 cup grated feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix together feta cheese, spinach, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
4. Lay a sheet of phyllo dough on a flat surface and brush with olive oil.
5. Place 1 tablespoon of the cheese mixture at one end of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border.
6. Roll up the dough tightly and place seam-side down on a baking sheet.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Fried Artichoke Hearts with Lemon Aioli
Fried Artichoke Hearts with Lemon Aioli Recipe
This recipe brings together the tender hearts of artichokes, crispy fried to perfection, and a tangy lemon aioli for dipping. A unique and delicious twist on traditional artichoke preparation.
Ingredients:
– 4 large artichoke hearts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon Aioli ingredients: 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 minced garlic clove
Instructions:
1. Prepare the artichoke hearts by removing the tough outer leaves and trimming the stems.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, panko breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each artichoke heart into the beaten egg and then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the coated artichoke hearts for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the Lemon Aioli by mixing mayonnaise, lemon juice, and garlic clove in a small bowl.
6. Serve the fried artichoke hearts with the Lemon Aioli dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet Potato and Carrot Tzimmes
Sweet Potato and Carrot Tzimmes Recipe
Tzimmes are traditional Jewish sweet dishes often served at special occasions. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes and carrots with a hint of spices, making it perfect for Sukkot or any other celebration.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sweet potatoes and carrots.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Pour the sugar mixture over the sweet potatoes and carrots; toss until they are evenly coated.
5. Drizzle with vegetable oil and toss again to combine.
6. Spread the tzimmes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the sweet potatoes and carrots are tender, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Homemade Hanukkah Gelt Chocolate Coins
Get ready to celebrate the Festival of Lights with these rich and creamy homemade chocolate coins, perfect for gifting or devouring yourself. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be creating your own Hanukkah magic in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Pinch of salt
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional, for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir in the heavy cream, butter, and salt until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread into a thin layer.
5. Allow the mixture to set at room temperature for about 30 minutes or until firm to the touch.
6. Cut the chocolate into desired coin shapes using a cookie cutter or a sharp knife.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (depending on setting time)
Garlicky Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pomegranate
Elevate your side dish game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe, perfect for any occasion. The sweetness of pomegranate seeds pairs surprisingly well with the earthy taste of roasted Brussels sprouts.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
5. Toss pomegranate seeds and honey with roasted sprouts.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional pomegranate seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Warm Hanukkah Spiced Wine
Warm Hanukkah Spiced Wine Recipe
As the lights of the menorah shine bright during Hanukkah, warm up with a glass of spiced wine that captures the spirit of the holiday. This sweet and spicy drink is perfect for sharing with friends and family as you celebrate the Festival of Lights.
Ingredients:
• 1 bottle (750ml) red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 cinnamon stick, broken into pieces
• 6-8 whole cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the red wine, orange juice, and honey. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the honey dissolves.
2. Add the cinnamon stick, cloves, nutmeg, and cardamom to the pot.
3. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the spices have infused into the wine.
4. Strain the spiced wine into a large pitcher or jug.
5. Serve warm in small cups or glasses.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Dairy-Free Sufganiyot
Celebrate Hanukkah with a delicious twist on traditional sufganiyot! This creamy dairy-free version is perfect for those with dietary restrictions or preferences.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1/4 cup canola oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 egg, replaced by 1 flax egg*
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together almond milk, canola oil, apple cider vinegar, and flax egg.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until smooth.
5. Using a piping bag or a spoon, drop small balls of dough into the hot oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Drain excess oil on paper towels and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Golden Fried Cheese Curds with Marinara
Elevate your snacking game with this addictive combination of crispy fried cheese curds and rich marinara sauce. Perfect for a quick indulgence or as a side dish to elevate your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag frozen cheese curds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each cheese curd into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the coated cheese curds in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
7. Serve hot with marinara sauce for dipping. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total, including frying time.
Summary
Get ready to celebrate Hanukkah with these delicious and traditional recipes! From crispy cheese-filled sufganiyot to classic potato latkes, there’s something for everyone. Try making homemade jelly doughnuts or golden fried potato kugel for a tasty twist on the holiday classics. Don’t forget to add some savory options like sweet and savory brisket or herbed roasted chicken with schmaltz. And of course, no Hanukkah celebration would be complete without traditional challah bread or fluffy matzo ball soup. With these 20 recipes, you’ll have a festive and flavorful holiday season!
