As the Festival of Lights approaches, many Jewish households around the world start to think about traditional Hanukkah recipes. The holiday, which commemorates the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem after the Maccabees’ victory over the Seleucid Empire, is a time for family, friends, and of course, delicious food.
From classic potato latkes to sweet jelly doughnuts, Hanukkah’s culinary traditions are a big part of its charm. Whether you’re hosting a big gathering or just looking for some tasty treats to enjoy with loved ones, we’ve got you covered with these 18 festive Hanukkah recipes that are sure to become new family favorites.
In this article, we’ll explore a range of traditional and modern Hanukkah recipes, from savory dishes like slow-cooked brisket and roasted potatoes to sweet treats like chocolate babka and warm cinnamon-spiced apple kugel. Whether you’re looking for inspiration for your own cooking or just want to try something new and exciting, these recipes are sure to bring a little extra light into your holiday season.
So grab a pen and paper (or your favorite recipe app), get ready to cook up some Hanukkah magic, and let’s dive in!
Classic Potato Latkes with Sour Cream
Get ready for a crispy, golden-brown treat that’s perfect for any time of day or occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1 onion, grated
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Sour cream, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine grated potatoes, onion, eggs, flour, and salt. Mix well.
2. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
3. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the potato mixture into the hot oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
4. Cook latkes for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
6. Serve warm with sour cream and your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes (depending on the number of latkes)
Crispy Hanukkah Sufganiyot with Raspberry Filling
Celebrate the Festival of Lights with these crispy, sweet, and tangy sufganiyot filled with a delicious raspberry jam.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Raspberry filling (homemade or store-bought)
– Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Gradually add warm water and mix until a smooth dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5 minutes.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut out circles of dough using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
7. Fry the dough in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
8. Dust with powdered sugar and fill with raspberry filling.
Cooking Time:
– Frying time: 2-3 minutes per batch
– Cooling time: at least 30 minutes before serving
Homemade Applesauce for Latkes
Elevate your Hanukkah celebration with this simple and delicious homemade applesauce recipe, perfectly paired with crispy latkes.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large apples (Granny Smith or Fuji work well)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Peel, core, and chop the apples into small pieces.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped apples, brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add the water to the saucepan and stir until the sugar has dissolved.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Reduce the heat to low and let the applesauce cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the sauce has thickened.
6. Remove from heat and let cool before serving alongside your favorite latkes.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Spinach and Mushroom Kugel
This creamy kugel is a perfect combination of spinach, mushrooms, and cheese, perfect for a comforting side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms (button or cremini)
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms in butter until tender.
3. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
4. In a separate bowl, combine flour, salt, and pepper.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the mushroom mixture, stirring well.
6. Stir in both cheeses until well combined.
7. Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow-Cooked Brisket with Caramelized Onions
Slow-Cooked Brisket with Caramelized Onions Recipe
Summary:
This recipe yields a tender and flavorful brisket, slow-cooked to perfection and paired with sweet and savory caramelized onions. Perfect for a weekend dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef brisket
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the brisket with salt.
3. In a large Dutch oven or slow cooker, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the brisket on both sides until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Remove the brisket from the pot and set aside. Add the sliced onions to the pot and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally, about 20-25 minutes.
5. Add the brown sugar, garlic, and beef broth to the pot. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
6. Return the brisket to the pot and cover with a lid or foil. Transfer to the oven and slow cook for 3-4 hours, or until the brisket is tender.
7. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Sweet Honey-Glazed Carrot Tzimmes
A sweet and savory twist on the classic carrot tzimmes, this recipe combines tender carrots with a sticky honey glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and salt.
3. Add the carrot slices and toss until they are evenly coated with the oil mixture.
4. Spread the carrots out in a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. Roast the carrots for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, apple cider vinegar, and cinnamon.
7. Remove the carrots from the oven and brush with the honey glaze.
8. Return the carrots to the oven and roast for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the glaze is sticky and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Golden Challah Bread with Sesame Seeds
This sweet and savory bread is a perfect combination of traditional challah recipe with the nutty flavor of sesame seeds. With its golden crust and soft interior, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add flour, salt, and sesame seeds to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Beat in eggs and melted butter until the dough comes together.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Shape the dough into a braided loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Herb Matzo Ball Soup
Warm up with this comforting and aromatic soup that combines the flavors of roasted garlic, fresh herbs, and tender matzo balls.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 garlic cloves
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 matzo ball mix (follow package instructions for mixing)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap garlic cloves in foil and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until soft and mashed.
2. In a large pot, sauté the roasted garlic with olive oil over medium heat until fragrant.
3. Add chicken broth, water, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
4. Prepare matzo balls according to package instructions. Add them to the soup and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Decadent Chocolate Babka for Dessert
Decadent Chocolate Babka Recipe
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this rich and indulgent chocolate babka recipe, perfect for satisfying any dessert craving.
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup warm water
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips or chunks (at least 60% cocoa)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast, melted butter, warm water, egg, and granulated sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add flour and salt; mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Roll out half the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm). Spread with chocolate chips or chunks.
6. Roll up tightly; cut into 12 equal pieces. Place in a buttered 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Savory Cheese Blintzes with Berry Compote
Transform your brunch game with these buttery blintzes filled with a rich cheese mixture and served with a sweet and tangy berry compote. Perfect for a weekend treat or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of blintze wrappers (about 20-22 sheets)
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Berry compote ingredients:
+ 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
+ 2 tbsp honey
+ 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, grated cheddar cheese, and chopped scallions. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Lay a blintze wrapper on a flat surface and place about 1 tablespoon of the cheese mixture in the center.
4. Fold the bottom half up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a tight cylinder. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Cook the blintzes in the skillet for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
6. Meanwhile, combine the mixed berries, honey, and lemon juice in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the compote has thickened slightly.
7. Serve the warm blintzes with the berry compote spooned on top.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Herbed Roasted Chicken with Lemon and Thyme
Elevate your roasted chicken game with this flavorful recipe, where the brightness of lemon and the earthiness of thyme come together to create a truly delightful dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, olive oil, thyme, and rosemary.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
7. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Sweet Potato Latkes with Cinnamon Sugar
Sweet Potato Latkes with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these crispy and sweet Sweet Potato Latkes!
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Cinnamon sugar mixture (see below)
Cinnamon Sugar Mixture:
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine grated sweet potatoes, flour, salt, and pepper.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg and olive oil.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
5. Using 1/4 cup measuring cups, scoop the sweet potato mixture into the pan.
6. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until crispy and golden brown.
7. While latkes are cooking, mix together cinnamon sugar in a small bowl.
8. Once latkes are done, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar mixture and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes (depending on the number of latkes you make).
Traditional Hanukkah Jelly Doughnuts
Celebrate the Festival of Lights with these sweet and tender jelly doughnuts, a beloved Hanukkah tradition.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Jelly filling of your choice (e.g., raspberry or strawberry)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and sugar.
2. Gradually add warm water to form a sticky dough.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Place in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
5. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
6. Punch down the dough and cut into small pieces.
7. Fry doughnuts for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
8. Drain excess oil with paper towels and fill with jelly.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy these delicious Hanukkah treats with your loved ones!
Warm Cinnamon-Spiced Apple Kugel
A sweet and comforting Jewish dessert perfect for the fall season, this warm kugel is filled with tender apples, crunchy cinnamon sugar, and a hint of vanilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 large Granny Smith apple, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– Cinnamon sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Add diced apple and mix until coated with the sweet mixture.
4. Beat in eggs, milk, and flour until smooth.
5. Pour batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar (if using) before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Rich and Creamy Dairy-Free Rugelach
Enjoy the classic pastry treat with a twist! This dairy-free recipe uses coconut cream and vegan butter to create a rich and creamy filling, wrapped in a flaky, buttery crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold vegan butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup coconut cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and cold vegan butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add coconut cream, sugar, salt, and vanilla extract; mix until a dough forms.
4. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface; knead a few times until smooth.
5. Roll out dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into squares or rectangles.
6. Spoon a small amount of filling (coconut cream mixture) onto one half of each square, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
7. Fold the other half over the filling; press edges together to seal.
8. Place rugelach on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper; bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fresh Herb and Garlic Roasted Potatoes
Transform ordinary potatoes into a flavorful masterpiece with this simple recipe that combines the pungency of garlic, the brightness of fresh herbs, and the richness of roasted goodness.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine potatoes, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the potato mixture and toss to coat evenly.
4. Spread the potatoes out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown, tender, and caramelized.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Sweet and Tangy Pomegranate Brisket
This recipe is a perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors, combining the richness of pomegranate with the tender texture of slow-cooked brisket.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef brisket
– 1 cup pomegranate juice
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pomegranate juice, honey, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the brisket in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot. Pour the pomegranate glaze over the brisket, making sure it’s fully coated.
4. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until the brisket is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Fluffy Homemade Hanukkah Beignets
Celebrate the Festival of Lights with these sweet and airy beignets, perfect for a Hanukkah party or gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast and sugar. Add warm water and stir to dissolve.
2. Let mixture sit for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy.
3. Whisk in flour, salt, and vegetable oil until smooth batter forms.
4. Beat in eggs until well combined.
5. Pour batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar while still warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Celebrate the joy of Hanukkah with these 18 mouth-watering recipes, each one a delicious blend of traditional flavors and festive flair. From classic potato latkes with sour cream to crispy sufganiyot filled with raspberry jam, there’s something for everyone on this list. Enjoy homemade applesauce and cheese-stuffed kugel, or indulge in sweet treats like honey-glazed carrot tzimmes and decadent chocolate babka. Whether you’re looking for savory main courses or indulgent desserts, these recipes are sure to make your Hanukkah celebration one to remember.