As the festival of lights approaches, the excitement in my kitchen starts to build. There’s nothing quite like the sweet aroma of melted chocolate mingling with the anticipation of family gatherings and dreidel games. This year, I decided to bring a delightful twist to our Hanukkah celebrations by making homemade Hanukkah gelt—those charming chocolate coins that not only satisfy our sweet tooth but also spark joy during our traditional festivities.
In just 25 minutes, you can whip up these rich, customizable treats that will enchant both kids and adults alike. Picture the glossy chocolate coins, each one a canvas for your creativity—add a sprinkle of festive decorations or some chewy dried fruits for a personal touch. Best of all, you’ll impress your loved ones with your culinary skills without spending hours in the kitchen. Get ready to make memories and indulge in the spirit of Hanukkah with these easy homemade chocolate gelt coins!
Why Will You Love Hanukkah Gelt?
Simplicity, making homemade Hanukkah gelt is quick and easy—perfect for even novice bakers.
Customization allows you to use your favorite chocolates and toppings, ensuring each bite is uniquely delicious.
Versatile in its appeal, these chocolate coins are delightful as game pieces or party favors.
Festive Touches like gold sprinkles or dried fruit elevate your creations, making them truly stand out during celebrations.
Family Fun is guaranteed as everyone can join in on the decorating and transforming this treat into a family bonding activity!
Hanukkah Gelt Ingredients
For the Chocolate Coins
• Neutral Oil – Essential for greasing molds, ensuring easy removal of your decadent gelt.
• Dark Chocolate or Semisweet Chocolate Chips (6 oz.) – The rich base flavor of the gelt; for a sweeter option, milk chocolate works beautifully.
• Dried Apricots (2, optional) – Adds a delightful chewy texture and fruity burst; feel free to swap for any dried fruit you love.
• Slivered Almonds (1 Tbsp., optional) – Provides a crunchy, nutty flavor; crushed pistachios or your favorite nuts are great alternatives.
• Gold Sprinkles or White Sparkling Sugar (1 tsp., optional) – A festive decorative touch; if you wish, colored sugar can be used instead.
• Coarse Himalayan Sea Salt (1/2 tsp., optional) – Enhances the chocolate’s flavor; feel free to substitute with regular sea salt.
Dive into the joy of crafting these homemade Hanukkah gelt and watch as they brighten up your celebrations!
How to Make Hanukkah Gelt
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Prepare Molds: Brush mini cupcake or muffin tins with neutral oil to ensure the chocolate coins release easily after setting. A light coating will do wonders—don’t skimp!
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Melt Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler, melt the dark or semisweet chocolate. Stir occasionally until it’s completely smooth and glossy, ensuring you don’t overheat it.
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Pour Chocolate: Spoon 1 to 2 teaspoons of the melted chocolate into each prepared mold. Gently tap the molds to level out the chocolate, creating a smooth surface.
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Chill: Place the filled molds in the refrigerator to set for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they feel firm to the touch and the chocolate has lost its sheen.
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Decorate: Once your coins are hard, carefully remove them from the molds. Now, unleash your creativity by decorating with optional toppings like sprinkles, dried fruit, or slivered almonds.
Optional: Consider pairing with an assortment of mini chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey twist.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Homemade Hanukkah Gelt coins are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can prepare the melted chocolate mixture and pour it into the molds up to 24 hours in advance, just refrigerate the filled molds until you’re ready to set them. To keep the gelt fresh and prevent any loss of texture, store the prepared molds in an airtight container. When it’s time to serve, simply take them out, let them warm up slightly at room temperature for a few minutes, and then decorate them with your chosen toppings. You’ll have delightful, homemade Hanukkah Gelt that’s just as delicious as if you made them fresh, ready to impress your family and friends!
Expert Tips for Homemade Hanukkah Gelt
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Greasing the Molds: Ensure your molds are adequately greased with neutral oil to prevent the chocolate gelt from sticking. This will make extraction seamless and save you frustration.
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Quality Chocolate Matters: Using high-quality dark or semisweet chocolate will elevate the flavor of your Hanukkah gelt. Avoid chocolate chips with wax; choose real chocolate for a smoother taste.
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Customize Your Coins: Experiment with different toppings like crushed nuts, colorful sprinkles, or even a pinch of sea salt for contrast. This customization makes each gelt unique and delightful.
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Be Patient When Chilling: Allow ample time for the chocolate to chill fully, about 15-20 minutes. Rushing this step can lead to soft and misshapen coins.
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Avoid Overheating: When melting chocolate, do so in short intervals using low heat to prevent burning. Stir frequently, and stop once it’s just melted for the best texture.
Hanukkah Gelt Variations
Feel free to get creative with your homemade chocolate gelt by exploring these delightful twists!
- Milk Chocolate: Substitute dark chocolate for milk chocolate for a sweeter, creamier taste that kids will love.
- Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the melted chocolate for a refreshing citrus twist. This bright flavor pairs beautifully with the richness of the chocolate.
- Nutty Crunch: Replace slivered almonds with crushed pistachios for a vibrant pop of color and a unique crunchy texture. Pistachios add a delightful earthiness and make each coin feel extra special.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a surprising layer of heat that brings a bold twist to your festive treats.
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle a simple homemade caramel over the set gelt for an indulgent layer of sweetness, offering a luxurious touch to this playful treat.
- Dried Fruit Medley: Swap dried apricots for a mix of your favorite dried fruits, like cranberries, cherries, or even banana chips, for a fun and fruity experience.
- Flavored Extracts: Enhance the chocolate with a drop of peppermint or almond extract, adding a whimsical layer of flavor that can evoke feelings of nostalgia.
- Decadent Toppings: Experiment with decorating these gelt coins with a variety of toppings, such as sea salt flakes, mini chocolate chips, or even edible glitter for a festive flair.
These variations not only elevate your gelt but also invite joy and creativity into your kitchen—perfect for sharing with family and friends during the celebrations!
What to Serve with Homemade Hanukkah Gelt?
As you dive into the sweet celebration of Hanukkah, consider a few delightful accompaniments to elevate your festive spread.
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Latkes: Crispy potato pancakes are a classic pairing, offering a savory contrast that balances the sweetness of the gelt beautifully. They create a satisfying and festive meal, perfect for sharing.
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Applesauce: A dollop of homemade applesauce brings a delightful sweetness and acidity, complementing both latkes and gelt. Its smooth texture adds a refreshing counterpoint to your chocolaty treats.
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Sour Cream: Creamy and tangy, sour cream is a traditional accompaniment to latkes and enhances the overall flavor profile of your meal. It makes for a comforting addition that guests will love.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: Brighten your plate with a colorful array of seasonal fruits. The freshness cuts through the richness of the chocolate gelt, making it a light and zesty side to your feast.
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Wine: Opt for a fruity red or a festive sparkling wine to toast the occasion. A glass of something bubbly brings added celebration to your gatherings and pairs charmingly with chocolate.
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Dreidel Game Prizes: Consider having additional small treats or toys on hand to act as fun prizes for your dreidel games, enhancing the festive atmosphere. These little surprises will keep the spirit lively and playful.
These accompaniments will not only enhance your homemade Hanukkah gelt but also create a joyful and memorable celebration for everyone gathered around your table.
How to Store and Freeze Hanukkah Gelt
Room Temperature: Keep chocolate gelt in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This ensures they remain fresh and delicious for your festive gatherings.
Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate the gelt in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor experience.
Freezer: If you want to store the gelt for an extended period, freeze them for up to 2 months. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Reheating: There’s no need to reheat; simply enjoy these homemade Hanukkah gelt straight from the fridge or at room temperature for a delightful treat!
Homemade Hanukkah Gelt Recipe FAQs
What type of chocolate should I use for the gelt?
Absolutely, using high-quality dark chocolate or semisweet chocolate chips will provide the best flavor for your homemade Hanukkah gelt. If you prefer a sweeter treat, feel free to swap in milk chocolate. Just make sure it’s real chocolate rather than chocolate chips with added wax for better texture.
How should I store homemade Hanukkah gelt?
Keep your chocolate gelt in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. Remember to let them sit at room temperature for a bit before serving to enhance the flavor!
Can I freeze Hanukkah gelt?
Yes, you can freeze your homemade gelt for up to 2 months! Just be sure to layer them between parchment paper in an airtight container. This prevents them from sticking together, and when you’re ready to enjoy, simply take them out and let them thaw.
What if my chocolate doesn’t melt smoothly?
If you find that your chocolate is lumpy or doesn’t melt smoothly, it might be overheating. Always melt chocolate in short bursts—about 20-30 seconds in the microwave—stirring frequently. If you see lumps, remove the bowl from heat, give it a good stir, and let residual heat finish the melting process.
Can I use other toppings for my gelt?
Very! Feel free to get creative with your toppings. Crushed nuts, colorful sprinkles, or even mini chocolate chips can add fun and flavor. Just ensure that any additions complement the taste of the chocolate for the best experience.
Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
Yes, be mindful of ingredients like chocolate and nuts, which are not safe for pets. Always check for allergy risk in your group as well; if you’re serving guests, consider labeling any ingredients that could trigger allergies, such as nuts or dried fruits, to keep everyone safe and happy!
Homemade Hanukkah Gelt: Fun Chocolate Coins for Everyone
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Brush mini cupcake or muffin tins with neutral oil to ensure the chocolate coins release easily after setting.
- In a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler, melt the dark or semisweet chocolate. Stir occasionally until it’s smooth and glossy.
- Spoon 1 to 2 teaspoons of the melted chocolate into each prepared mold and gently tap to level it out.
- Place the filled molds in the refrigerator to set for about 15-20 minutes until firm.
- Carefully remove the coins from the molds and decorate with optional toppings like sprinkles or dried fruit.