As the lights of the menorah glow, the aroma of fried dough and sweet treats fills the air, signaling the start of a festive celebration – Hanukkah! For eight days and nights, families come together to relive the miracle of oil that burned bright in the Temple, symbolized by the lighting of candles and the sharing of delicious foods. To make your holiday season even brighter, we’ve gathered 18 delectable Hanukkah recipes that will delight both kids and adults alike. From classic potato latkes to crispy sufganiyot (jelly donuts), savory brisket to sweet kugel, and decadent chocolate babka for dessert, these mouthwatering dishes are sure to become new traditions in your household.
Classic Potato Latkes with Applesauce
Classic Potato Latkes with Applesauce: A Traditional Hanukkah Treat
These crispy, golden latkes are a staple of Jewish cuisine and are perfect for snacking on during the holiday season. Serve them warm with a side of creamy applesauce for a delicious and satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Applesauce, warmed
Instructions:
1. Grate the potatoes and onion using a box grater or food processor.
2. In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes and onion, eggs, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the potato mixture into the hot oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain latkes on paper towels and serve warm with warmed applesauce.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes to fry all the latkes.
Crispy Hanukkah Sufganiyot (Jelly Donuts)
Celebrate the Festival of Lights with these crispy and delicious jelly-filled donuts, a traditional Hanukkah treat. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, these sufganiyot are sure to bring joy and light to your holiday gathering.
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 filling of your choice
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and yeast.
2. Gradually add milk and eggs to form a smooth batter.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes elastic.
4. Let the dough rise in a warm place for about an hour.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
6. Punch down the dough and cut into desired donut shapes.
7. Fry donuts for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
8. Drain excess oil and fill with your favorite jelly or jam.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total.
Homemade Challah Bread for Hanukkah
Celebrate the Festival of Lights with this sweet and tender homemade challah bread recipe, perfect for serving during Hanukkah gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water (105°F to 115°F)
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon honey or sweetener of choice
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
2. Gradually add warm water, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Add beaten eggs, melted butter, and honey; mix until a smooth, elastic dough is achieved.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, until it becomes shiny and develops a sticky texture.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Punch down the dough and shape into desired form (e.g., long braid or round loaf).
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cheesy Spinach and Feta Rugelach
This rugelach recipe combines the savory flavors of spinach, feta cheese, and garlic with the buttery, flaky crust of traditional rugelach. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, these cheesy treats are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
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 a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Mix spinach, feta cheese, garlic, and olive oil in a bowl.
4. Place the mixture along the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border on either side.
5. Fold the sides over the filling, then roll into a log shape.
6. Cut into 12 equal pieces and place on prepared baking sheet.
7. Brush with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Golden Fried Zucchini Fritters
Add a crunchy twist to your zucchini game with these golden fried fritters. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, they’re sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
Ingredients:
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine grated zucchini, flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add buttermilk to the bowl and stir until just combined.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the mixture into the hot oil.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your crispy Golden Fried Zucchini Fritters!
Sweet and Savory Matzo Ball Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of sweet and savory matzo ball soup, perfect for any occasion. This classic Jewish dish is given a twist with the addition of carrots and a hint of honey.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 cups matzo meal
– 2 eggs
– 2 tablespoons chicken fat or vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add carrots, thyme, cumin, salt, and pepper; cook for 5 minutes.
4. Bring broth to a boil; add honey and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. In a separate bowl, mix matzo meal and eggs.
6. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture into boiling broth; cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until matzo balls are cooked through.
7. Serve hot with chicken fat or vegetable oil drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Traditional Hanukkah Brisket with Gravy
Celebrate the Festival of Lights with this classic Jewish dish, slow-cooked to perfection and infused with warm spices. This traditional Hanukkah brisket is a staple at many holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 pound beef brisket
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground paprika
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, combine brisket, onion, garlic, beef broth, honey, tomato paste, cinnamon, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Cover the pot with foil or a lid and transfer to the preheated oven.
4. Braise for 3-4 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
5. Remove from oven and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
6. Serve with pan juices spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Creamy Dairy-Free Hanukkah Kugel
A classic Jewish dessert gets a creamy and delicious makeover with this dairy-free kugel recipe, perfect for Hanukkah celebrations.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/2 cup canned coconut milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon melted vegan butter or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, coconut milk, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix well until smooth.
3. Add unsweetened almond milk and melted vegan butter or oil; mix until fully incorporated.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish greased with non-stick spray or parchment paper.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the kugel is golden brown and set.
6. Remove from oven and let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Crunchy Onion and Garlic Potato Kugel
This sweet and savory potato kugel is a delicious twist on the classic dish, featuring caramelized onions and pungent garlic that adds depth to every bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced and caramelized
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine grated potatoes, caramelized onions, garlic, flour, salt, and pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, beaten egg, and parsley.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Decadent Chocolate Babka for Dessert
Decadent Chocolate Babka Recipe for Dessert
Summary: A rich, moist chocolate babka filled with a gooey chocolate center, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk (105°F to 115°F)
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
3. Add sugar, flour, and salt to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Roll out half of the dough into a thin sheet. Place chocolate chips on one half, leaving a 1-inch border.
6. Fold the other half over the filling to form a triangle. Seal edges by pressing with fingers or fork tines.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Serve warm and dust with confectioners’ sugar if desired.
Fluffy Cheese Blintzes with Berry Compote
Fluffy Cheese Blintzes with Berry Compote: A Sweet and Savory Delight
These tender blintzes are filled with a creamy cheese mixture and served with a sweet and tangy berry compote. Perfect for brunch or dessert, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of blintze mix
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Fresh berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries) for compote
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter to make the blintze batter.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour in a small amount of batter and tilt to coat the bottom.
3. Cook for 30 seconds, then flip and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract.
5. Place a cooked blintze on a flat surface and spread a tablespoon or two of the cheese mixture down the center.
6. Fold the blintze in half to enclose the filling.
7. Heat the compote by mixing fresh berries with a little sugar and lemon juice.
8. Serve the blintzes warm with the berry compote.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spiced Apple Cider Hanukkah Donuts
Celebrate the Festival of Lights with these sweet and spicy donuts infused with the warmth of apple cider and the magic of Hanukkah.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon apple cider powder (or 1 tablespoon apple cider syrup)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, yeast, melted butter, egg, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and apple cider powder.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Pipe donuts onto the oil using a piping bag fitted with a round tip.
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Herbed Roasted Chicken with Schmaltz Potatoes
A classic comfort food recipe that combines the simplicity of roasted chicken with the richness of schmaltz potatoes, all infused with a blend of fragrant herbs.
Ingredients:
For the chicken:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs), rinsed and patted dry
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the potatoes:
– 2 large Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
– 2 tbsp schmaltz (chicken fat) or vegetable oil
– 1 tsp kosher salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
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. Meanwhile, toss potatoes with schmaltz, salt, pepper, and parsley.
7. Spread potatoes around the chicken in the roasting pan.
8. Return to oven and continue roasting for an additional 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
Savory Mushroom and Leek Latkes
Savory Mushroom and Leek Latkes: A Twist on Classic Potato Latkes
These flavorful latkes combine the earthy sweetness of sautéed mushrooms and leeks with crispy, golden potato pancakes. Perfect as a side dish or appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms and leeks (see note)
– 1 large egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Grate the potatoes using a box grater or food processor.
2. In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
3. Add the sautéed mushrooms and leeks, cheddar cheese (if using), and egg. Mix until just combined.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a non-stick 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 on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain latkes on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total (10-12 minutes per batch)
Sweet Honey-Glazed Hanukkah Cookies
Celebrate the Festival of Lights with these sweet and sticky cookies, perfect for sharing with friends and family during Hanukkah. These honey-glazed treats are easy to make and require only a few ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. While still warm, drizzle with honey and sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar (if using).
8. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Rich and Creamy Hanukkah Cheese Soufflé
Celebrate the Festival of Lights with a decadent cheese soufflé that’s sure to impress your guests. This rich and creamy recipe is perfect for a special occasion like Hanukkah.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg yolk
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
3. Add the flour and whisk until smooth, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add the heavy cream, whisking constantly.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted.
6. Beat in the egg yolk and season with salt and pepper.
7. Pour into a buttered soufflé dish and smooth top.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until puffed and golden.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Light and Crispy Hanukkah Falafel Bites
Celebrate the Festival of Lights with these crispy and flavorful falafel bites, perfect for snacking or serving at your Hanukkah party. Made with a special blend of herbs and spices, these bite-sized treats are sure to delight both kids and adults.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mash chickpeas using a fork or potato masher.
3. Add flour, parsley, cilantro, baking powder, salt, and pepper to the mashed chickpeas. Mix well.
4. Divide the mixture into 12-15 small portions. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
5. Place the falafel bites on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
6. Drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and golden.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Festive Pomegranate-Glazed Salmon
Brighten up your holiday meal with this sweet and savory salmon recipe, featuring a vibrant pomegranate glaze. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup pomegranate juice
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine pomegranate juice, honey, and Dijon mustard. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let glaze simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place salmon fillets on the sheet.
5. Brush the pomegranate glaze evenly over the salmon.
6. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top of each fillet.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Celebrate Hanukkah with these 18 delicious and festive recipes! From classic potato latkes to crispy jelly donuts, and from homemade challah bread to decadent chocolate babka, there’s something for everyone. Other highlights include cheesy rugelach, golden zucchini fritters, sweet matzo ball soup, traditional brisket with gravy, and creamy kugel. Plus, try some savory mushroom latkes, fluffy cheese blintzes, spiced apple cider donuts, herbed roasted chicken, or even rich cheese soufflés! Whatever your taste buds desire, these recipes will make your Hanukkah celebration truly unforgettable.
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