When the sun sets and the candles flicker, the spirit of Hanukkah begins to fill our homes. As we gather around the table, there’s nothing quite like indulging in homemade Hanukkah gelt those delightful chocolate coins that hold a special place in our celebrations. The rich aroma of melting chocolate combines with the excitement of creative toppings, transforming this simple treat into a canvas for your imagination.
I crafted this easy homemade Hanukkah gelt recipe one evening as I rummaged through my pantry, inspired by the memories of childhood celebrations. With just a few ingredients and a touch of personalization, you can whip up these charming coins that melt in your mouth, delighting both kids and adults alike. They’re quick to make and offer endless customization options, making them perfect for sharing with family and friends during this joyous time. Get ready to create a sweet tradition that will surely make your holiday gatherings even more memorable!
Why love Hanukkah Gelt this season?
Homemade treat: Experience the joy of making these delightful chocolate coins right in your kitchen. Customizable options: Choose your favorite toppings, from nuts to sprinkles, to create a unique treat for everyone. Quick prep time: Ready in just 30 minutes, these gelt coins fit perfectly into your busy holiday schedule. Family fun: Involve kids in the decorating process for a fun, memorable activity. Perfect gift: Share these sweet coins as thoughtful gifts or party favors during Hanukkah gatherings.
Hanukkah Gelt Ingredients
For the Chocolate Coins
• Neutral Oil – Use to brush the pans to prevent sticking, with coconut oil as a great substitute.
• Dark Chocolate or Semisweet Chocolate Chips (6 oz.) – This is the main ingredient providing a rich chocolate flavor; opt for milk chocolate for a sweeter version.
For Optional Toppings
• Dried Apricots – Trimmed into strips to add a fruity flavor and visual appeal; dried cranberries or cherries work well as substitutes.
• Slivered Almonds (1 Tbsp.) – Adds a delightful crunch and enhances the look; pecans can be a tasty alternative.
• Gold Sprinkles or White Sparkling Sugar (1 tsp.) – Perfect for decoration and elevating the festive appearance; consider edible glitter as a fun option.
• Coarse Himalayan Sea Salt (½ tsp.) – Adds a lovely contrast to the sweetness of chocolate; sea salt or fleur de sel are excellent alternatives.
How to Make Hanukkah Gelt
- Prepare Molds: Grease mini cupcake or muffin tins with a neutral oil, like coconut oil, to ensure your chocolate coins release easily after setting.
- Melt Chocolate: Place 1-2 teaspoons of dark or semisweet chocolate into each cup. Stir lightly to spread the chocolate across the base, ensuring an even layer.
- Level and Chill: Gently tap the pans on the countertop to level the chocolate. Refrigerate for about 15-20 minutes until the chocolate is firm to the touch.
- Decorate: Once your chocolate coins are set, carefully remove them from the molds. Decorate immediately with your choice of toppings before they start to warm up and lose shape.
Optional: Drizzle some melted chocolate on top for an extra decorative touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Hanukkah Gelt ahead of time is a fantastic way to streamline your holiday festivities! You can easily melt the chocolate and pour it into the molds up to 24 hours in advance. Once they have chilled in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes, simply cover them with plastic wrap to maintain freshness. When it’s time to serve, remove the coins from the molds and add your favorite toppings just before presentation to keep them looking vibrant and inviting. This way, you can enjoy the delightful experience of homemade Hanukkah gelt without any last-minute stress, allowing more time to celebrate with friends and family!
How to Store and Freeze Hanukkah Gelt
Room Temperature: Keep the chocolate coins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks, ensuring they remain fresh and delicious.
Fridge: If you prefer to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate the gelt, but keep in mind that it may affect the texture, making them less smooth.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the gelt in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer; just remember to let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating: There’s no need to reheat Hanukkah gelt; simply let them come back to room temperature for the best flavor and texture!
Expert Tips for Hanukkah Gelt
- Grease Generously: Ensure your molds are well-greased to avoid breaking the Hanukkah gelt coins upon removal for a perfect presentation.
- Chill Properly: Give your chocolate enough time to chill and set completely; under-chilling may lead to melting or crumbling during removal.
- Melt with Care: Use a double boiler or melt in the microwave in short bursts to prevent burning the chocolate. Slow and steady wins here!
- Top Smartly: Add toppings immediately after removing the coins from the molds for the best adherence. Once they warm up, the toppings may slide off.
- Flavor Experimentation: Feel free to experiment with flavored extracts like vanilla or peppermint in your melted chocolate; they’ll add a delightful twist to your Hanukkah gelt!
What to Serve with Hanukkah Gelt?
As you gather with loved ones during your Hanukkah celebration, consider these delightful accompaniments to elevate your festive spread.
- Latkes: These crispy potato pancakes are a Hanukkah classic, offering a savory contrast to the sweet gelt. The golden-brown texture provides an irresistible crunch with every bite.
- Sufganiyot: These delectable jelly-filled doughnuts add a touch of sweetness to your dessert table. Their soft, fluffy interiors make them the perfect pairing with rich chocolate coins.
- Roasted Root Vegetables: A medley of caramelized carrots and parsnips brings earthy flavors that complement the sweetness of gelt. Their vibrant colors and satisfying textures brighten up your holiday feast.
- Applesauce: The tartness of applesauce provides a refreshing contrast, balancing the sweetness of the chocolate coins. Its creamy texture invites everyone to dip in and enjoy.
- Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of fresh fruit can add a light, refreshing note to your meal. Citrus, berries, and pomegranates offer bright flavors and beautiful presentation.
- Hot Cocoa: Treat yourself to a warm mug of cocoa, enhanced with a sprinkle of sea salt. This cozy drink pairs beautifully, creating a perfect harmony with the sweet, chocolatey gelt.
- Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream: For a fun twist, serve slices of homemade gelt atop creamy mint chocolate chip ice cream. The cold treat contrasts the rich chocolate, delivering a delightful burst of flavor.
- Traditional Hanukkah Wine: A glass of semi-sweet wine will bring warmth and a traditional touch to your celebration. Its fruity notes will harmonize beautifully with the decadent sweetness of your chocolate coins.
Hanukkah Gelt Variations
Get ready to explore delightful twists and tasty alternatives that add your own unique flair to this beloved treat.
- White Chocolate: Use white chocolate instead of dark for a sweet, creamy version that kids will adore.
- Nut-Free: Swap nuts for crushed cookies or seeds like pumpkin or sunflower for a crunchy texture without allergens.
- Fruit Infusion: Mix in freeze-dried fruit powder directly into the melted chocolate for a pop of natural flavor and color!
- Chewy Texture: Add a layer of caramel or fudge beneath the chocolate for a gooey surprise that will delight chocolate lovers.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the melted chocolate for a surprising heat that balances the sweetness beautifully.
- Zesty Citrus: Stir in orange or lemon zest for a bright, fresh flavor that plays wonderfully against rich chocolate.
- Savory Twist: Incorporate a sprinkle of smoked sea salt atop the coins to create a complex, savory-sweet treat everyone will remember.
- Coconut Delight: Incorporate shredded coconut into the melted chocolate for a tropical flair that adds chewy goodness and a lovely visual appeal.
Hanukkah Gelt Recipe FAQs
What are the best ways to select ripe chocolate for making Hanukkah gelt?
Absolutely! When choosing chocolate for your Hanukkah gelt, look for high-quality dark chocolate or semisweet chocolate chips with a cacao percentage between 60% to 70% for a rich flavor. Check the ingredient list to avoid any unwanted additives. Opt for chocolate that is shiny and smooth, as this indicates freshness, while avoiding any with white spots or discoloration.
How should I store Hanukkah gelt to maintain freshness?
To keep your chocolate coins fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you choose to refrigerate them to extend their shelf life, be aware that cooling can alter the texture, making them slightly less creamy. Instead, simply store them cool but not cold for optimal enjoyment.
Can I freeze Hanukkah gelt? What’s the best method?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze your Hanukkah gelt! First, wrap each coin individually in plastic wrap, ensuring they are completely sealed. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and store them for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before indulging.
What should I do if my chocolate didn’t melt properly?
If your chocolate is grainy or seizes when melting, don’t despair! This often happens if it’s overheated. To fix this, try adding a small amount (1 teaspoon) of neutral oil (like coconut oil) to the chocolate and gently reheat over a low flame or in the microwave on a low setting in short bursts. Stir frequently to ensure it melts evenly without burning.
Can I use Hanukkah gelt as a pet treat?
No, it’s essential to keep chocolate away from pets as it can be toxic for them. Focus on using alternative shapes or carob-based treats that are pet-safe if you’d like to involve your furry friends during the celebrations or create treats specifically for them.
What toppings can I add to customize my Hanukkah gelt?
Very! You can personalize your gelt with a variety of toppings. Try slivered almonds or chopped dried fruits for crunch and flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, crushed pistachios are a delicious option! For a sparkling festive look, consider using gold sprinkles or edible glitter. Don’t hesitate to combine different toppings to create a stunning assortment that everyone will love!
Homemade Hanukkah Gelt: Easy, Customizable Chocolate Coins
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Grease mini cupcake or muffin tins with neutral oil to prevent sticking.
- Place 1-2 teaspoons of dark or semisweet chocolate into each cup and stir lightly.
- Gently tap the pans on the countertop to level the chocolate and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes until firm.
- Carefully remove the coins from the molds and decorate immediately with toppings.