8 Nights of Crispy Chanukah Delights

So I am not at all embarrassed to admit that I love fried foods. 

After all I am not the official dietitian on our site — I leave the uber healthy stuff to Tamar. When we were deciding what to do for the 8 nights of Chanukah – since the 8 nights of latkes concept felt so played out – (and in fact we have over 70 recipes for latkes) I said to Tamar “I’ve got it! 8 nights of Fried Desserts!” She was like “What? No way!” The professional in her couldn’t let go. But I did my duty and convinced her our readers and the world will love this. 

It’s Chanukah – it’s practically a mitzvah to fry.

So we are focusing on sweet crispy delights. So 8 nights, 8 treats from me and all our “professional” friends, like Jeff Nathan, Alessandra Rovati, Chef Laura and more!! You may hate me for it, but after you taste my Nutella Banana Egg Rolls I do think you will be thanking me!

Don’t miss out on all 8 of our Crispy Chanukah Delights:

From Morocco to Italy to the shtetls of Eastern Europe, Jewish kitchens have been celebrating Hanukkah with sizzling, golden desserts for centuries. This collection brings together beloved classics and global favorites — the perfect blend of fresh inspiration and timeless tradition.

1

Deep Fried Double Crème Chocolate Sandwich Cookies

This recipe combines two American favorites- pancake mix and cream-filled chocolate sandwich cookies, fried to perfection for a heavenly treat.

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2

Orange Scented Beignets with Winter Cider Drizzle

There’s something magical about a Hanukkah night: candles flickering, laughter filling the room… and the sweet, golden scent of dough frying in oil. These orange-scented beignets — light, airy, and infused with citrus brightness — are my kind of holiday treat. Drizzled with warm winter cider syrup, they’re the perfect way to end a festive Shabbat or Hanukkah dinner: crispy on the outside, soft inside, and a little bit of nostalgia in every bite.

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3

Venetian Fried Custard – Crema Fritta

Imagine pulling a plate of golden, pillowy custard fritters from the fryer — crispy outside, creamy inside — warm sugar dust kissing the air. That’s the magic of Crema Fritta. Inspired by old Venetian kitchens and perfect for a festive night, this fried custard brings indulgence and tradition to your table. Serve it fresh, top it with a sprinkle of powdered sugar (or a drizzle of honey), and enjoy a little moment of decadence that feels timeless.

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4

Nutella-Banana Egg Rolls

Super simple and extra delicious, all you need to do is wrap and roll. Nutella is dairy, so if you want to keep this parve, substitute with a non dairy chocolate spread, or this Homemade Nutella.

Check out this recipe

5

Pumpkin Doughnuts with Cinnamon Maple Glaze

There’s something about the smell of pumpkin and spices wafting through the house that just says fall — and these doughnuts bring that feeling straight to your table. Soft, cake-like, and gently spiced with pumpkin, they’re topped with a sweet cinnamon-maple glaze that makes them perfect for dessert, brunch… or a little holiday treat. Grab a warm one, take a bite, and let fall’s cozy flavors wrap you up.

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6

Kichels

Crispy, light, and sweet — kichels are one of those treats that instantly bring back memories, even if I only ever had them from the store. This Hanukkah, they’re a lovely little addition to your table — perfect with tea, coffee, or alongside latkes. A simple, golden reminder of tradition and those special holiday flavors.

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7

Eggnog Cranberry Rice Fritters – Fried Dessert

Frittelle di riso, fried rice fritters, are a winter tradition in Italy. Here is my Americanized version using eggnog and cranberries.

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8

Churros

When I think comfort food that feels like a hug from the inside, churros are right at the top of the list. Crispy, warm, and dusted with cinnamon sugar — they’re a little slice of indulgence that’s easy to make (yes, at home!) and even easier to love. Serve them fresh, with a cup of coffee or a drizzle of chocolate, and suddenly it feels like a mini celebration.

Check out this recipe