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Hanukkah is a special time filled with family, traditions, and delicious food. As the Festival of Lights approaches, I’m excited to share some must-try recipes that will make your celebration even more memorable. These dishes capture the spirit of the holiday and are sure to please everyone at your table.
I’ve gathered 15 tasty Hanukkah recipes that blend classic favorites with new twists. From crispy latkes to tender brisket, there’s something for every palate.
These recipes are easy to follow and will help you create a festive meal that honors tradition while adding some fresh flavors to your holiday spread.
1. Latkes
Latkes are a classic Hanukkah dish I love to make. These crispy potato pancakes are fried until golden brown and served hot.
I like to top mine with applesauce or sour cream. For a twist, I sometimes add shredded carrots or zucchini to the potato mixture.
Getting the right texture is key. I always squeeze out excess liquid from the grated potatoes before mixing in the other ingredients.
Get the full latkes Hanukkah recipe.
2. Sufganiyot
Sufganiyot are delicious jelly-filled donuts traditionally eaten during Hanukkah. I love making these sweet treats for my family.
The dough is made with yeast, flour, sugar, and eggs. After frying, I fill them with fruit jam and dust them with powdered sugar.
3. Brisket
Brisket is a star of Hanukkah meals. I love how this tender beef cut becomes melt-in-your-mouth delicious when cooked low and slow.
For the best results, I rub the brisket with spices and brown it first. Then I braise it in a flavorful liquid until it’s fork-tender.
Get the brisket Hanukkah recipe.
4. Challah Bread
Challah is a must-have for any Hanukkah celebration. I love baking this soft, golden bread with its signature braided shape.
The dough gets its rich flavor from eggs, honey, and a touch of sugar. I let it rise twice for the best texture.
Braiding the dough takes practice, but it’s worth it for that beautiful presentation. I like to brush the loaf with egg wash before baking for a shiny crust.
5. Matzo Ball Soup
Matzo ball soup is a Hanukkah classic I love. It’s warm, comforting, and perfect for cold winter nights.
The star of this dish is fluffy matzo balls made from matzo meal, eggs, and oil. They’re simmered in savory chicken broth with carrots, celery, and onions.
I find matzo ball soup so satisfying. It fills me up while still feeling light and nourishing. It’s a family favorite at my Hanukkah table every year.
Get the full matzo soup recipe.
6. Potato Kugel
Potato kugel is a beloved Hanukkah dish that tastes like one giant latke. I love how it combines grated potatoes, onions, eggs, and seasonings into a crispy casserole.
To make it, I grate potatoes and onions and mix them with eggs, salt, pepper, and a bit of matzo meal. Then I bake it until golden brown on top. The result is comforting and delicious.
7. Rugelach
Rugelach is a beloved Hanukkah treat I always look forward to. These crescent-shaped pastries are filled with sweet ingredients like chocolate, nuts, or fruit.
I love how versatile rugelach can be. My favorite fillings are cinnamon sugar, apricot jam, or chocolate chips. The flaky dough pairs perfectly with a hot cup of tea.
8. Kasha Varnishkes
Kasha Varnishkes is a comforting Hanukkah side dish I love. It combines nutty buckwheat groats with bow-tie pasta for a hearty texture.
I sauté onions until golden, then mix in the cooked kasha and pasta. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and flavor.
This simple dish pairs well with many Hanukkah mains. It’s filling and brings nostalgic flavors to the holiday table.
Get the kasha varnishkes recipe.
9. Tzimmes
Tzimmes is a sweet and savory dish that’s perfect for Hanukkah. I love making this traditional Jewish stew with carrots, sweet potatoes, and dried fruit.
To prepare tzimmes, I simmer the vegetables in orange juice and honey. The result is a delicious blend of flavors that’s both comforting and festive.
10. Kugel
Kugel is a must-try Hanukkah dish I love to make. It’s a baked pudding or casserole, usually made with egg noodles or potatoes.
Sweet noodle kugel is my favorite. I mix cooked egg noodles with eggs, sugar, cinnamon, and dairy. Then I bake it until golden and crispy on top.
For a savory version, I use grated potatoes instead of noodles. I add onions and seasonings for extra flavor.
12. Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest
I love this easy Hanukkah side dish. It takes just 15 minutes to make on the stovetop.
I combine cranberries, sugar, and orange zest in a saucepan. Then I add water and bring it to a boil.
I cook it for 5-10 minutes until the cranberries start to burst. The orange zest adds a bright, fresh flavor.
Get the cranberry sauce orange recipe.
13. Honey-Glazed Carrots
I love making honey-glazed carrots for Hanukkah. They’re easy and delicious. I peel and chop large carrots, then toss them with olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper.
I roast them in a 400°F oven until they’re tender and caramelized. The honey creates a sweet glaze that’s irresistible.
Get a honey-glazed carrots recipe.
14. Sweet Potato Latkes
I love sweet potato latkes as a tasty twist on the Hanukkah classic. They’re crispy on the outside and soft inside, with a hint of sweetness.
I make mine with grated sweet potatoes, onion, eggs, and matzo meal. They fry up beautifully golden brown.
Sweet potato latkes are perfect with applesauce or sour cream. I think they’re a delicious addition to any Hanukkah spread.
Get the sweet potato latkes recipe.
15. Hanukkah Gelt Bark
I love making Hanukkah Gelt Bark as a fun twist on traditional gelt. It’s easy and tasty. I melt chocolate and spread it on a baking sheet.
Then I sprinkle on blue and white candies or sprinkles. After it cools, I break it into pieces. Kids and adults both enjoy this sweet treat during Hanukkah celebrations.
