No one forgets latkes at their Hanukkah celebration—they’re an undisputed crowd favorite. Why? Because they’re AWESOME.
But why should latkes get all the glory? In homes filled with happy smiles and beautiful lights…there is sweetness in the air. So why not whip up some sweet noshes to match? Homemade gelt! Rugelach! Holiday cookies! Sufganiyot! With all these delicious Hanukkah desserts, is it any wonder we swoon this time of year?
Homemade Hanukkah gelt
When the sun goes down and dessert cravings go up, who can resist a bissel chocolate? Too often, chocolate Hanukkah gelt is plain and unimaginative. A new take on this traditional treat will delight everyone, and make you look like a kitchen maven. Go ahead, show off a little!
Download the chocolate gelt recipe
No-stress Chocolate Rugelach
Delicious rugelach is another Jewish delight. Originally an eastern European confection, rugelach—Yiddish for “little twists”—is rich in flavor and history. Usually, baking it is a big production, but you shouldn’t know from such hard work! Here’s a delicious short-cut recipe.
Download the chocolate rugelach recipe
Sufganiyot (Israeli jelly doughnuts)
In Israel, the official food of Hanukkah is Sufganiyot, which are fried jelly doughnuts. One taste of these sweet, soft, pillows of happiness, and you’ll understand why. Again, your time should be spent celebrating (not cooking, bubbeleh), so try this simple version of a beloved favorite.
Download the Sufganiyot recipe
Now that you’re armed with these great dessert recipes, the only real battle at Hanukkah is the historical one. Relax, enjoy, and let the festival of lights renew and inspire you. Where there is light, let there be sweetness!
P.S. Don’t forget the Hanukkah sugar cookies!
Break out your favorite holiday cookie cutters, and let the fun begin.
Penny Krugman Howard is a freelance writer and freestyle mom. Her December home is a funky mix of menorah lights and snowman stockings…reflecting her own and her husband’s traditions. The family cat swings both ways.