Holidays & Special Occasions
Rosh Hashanah Honey-Glazed Apples with Round Challah
Ingredients
- - 6 firm apples (such as Honeycrisp or Gala), cored and sliced into wedges
- - 3 tbsp neutral oil or margarine
- - 1/2 cup honey, plus extra for drizzling
- - 1/4 cup water
- - 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- - Pinch of salt
- - 1 round challah loaf (see Braided Challah recipe, shaped into a spiral round instead of braided)
Method
- Heat the oil or margarine in a large frying pan over medium heat.
- Add the apple wedges and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften slightly.
- Stir in the honey, water, cinnamon and a pinch of salt.
- Simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and glazed in a sticky honey syrup.
- Arrange the honey-glazed apples on a platter, drizzle with a little extra honey, and serve alongside slices of round challah for guests to dip in the remaining honey.
Native Name: Tapuchim BeDvash
Dietary Tags: Pareve, Vegan, Kosher
Cultural Background: Dipping apple slices in honey is one of the most recognisable Rosh Hashanah customs, symbolising hope for a sweet new year, and is traditionally eaten alongside a round challah (rather than the usual braided shape) that represents the cyclical nature of the year. This dish elevates the custom into a warm, festive side served at the holiday table.
Tips: Choose a firm apple variety that holds its shape when cooked rather than turning to mush – Honeycrisp, Gala or Braeburn all work well.
Variations: Add a handful of chopped walnuts or a few whole cloves to the pan for extra warmth and crunch. Pears can be substituted or mixed in with the apples.
Storage: Keeps in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water if the syrup has thickened too much.
Nutrition: Approx. 150 kcal, 1 g protein, 5 g fat, 28 g carbohydrate per serving (apples only, excludes challah).
FAQs:
Q: Why is challah shaped round for Rosh Hashanah instead of braided?
A: The round shape symbolises the cyclical nature of the year and the wish for a continuous cycle of good fortune, rather than a beginning and end.
Q: Can this dish be made ahead of the holiday?
A: Yes – the honey-glazed apples reheat well and can be made a day in advance, then warmed gently before serving.
Q: Is honey-dipped apple a meal or a ceremonial custom?
A: It is traditionally a ceremonial blessing eaten at the start of the Rosh Hashanah meal, though this glazed version can also serve as a warm side or light dessert.