Hanukkah Gelt Recipe
Introduction
Hanukkah Gelt is a delightful homemade treat featuring rich melted chocolate shaped into festive coins. This simple recipe offers a fun and tasty way to celebrate the holiday, with optional toppings to add a personal touch.

Ingredients
- Neutral oil, for brushing
- 6 oz. dark chocolate or semisweet chocolate chips
- 2 dried apricots, cut into thin strips (optional)
- 1 tbsp. slivered almonds (optional)
- 1 tsp. gold sprinkles or white sparkling sugar (optional)
- 1/2 tsp. coarse Himalayan sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Lightly brush a nonstick 24-cup or two 12-cup mini cupcake pans with neutral oil to prevent sticking.
- Step 2: In a small heatproof bowl, microwave the chocolate in 20-second increments, stirring well between each until completely melted and smooth. Alternatively, melt over a double boiler.
- Step 3: Pour about 1 to 1 1/2 teaspoons of melted chocolate into each prepared cup, tapping the pan gently to evenly spread the chocolate. Add desired toppings like apricot strips, almonds, sprinkles, or sea salt.
- Step 4: Refrigerate the pan until the chocolate is firm and chilled, about 10 minutes. Then, turn the pan upside down onto a cutting board and tap the back of the cups to release the gelt coins.
- Step 5: Serve immediately or carefully wrap the gelt in foil for later enjoyment.
Tips & Variations
- Use good-quality chocolate for the best flavor and smooth texture.
- Swap dried apricots for candied orange peel or chopped dried cherries to vary the fruit topping.
- Try sprinkling crushed peppermint candies or colorful nonpareils for a festive twist.
- If you don’t have a mini cupcake pan, silicone molds or candy molds work equally well.
Storage
Store leftover gelt in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To enjoy, bring them to room temperature briefly or serve chilled. Avoid storage in warm areas to prevent melting.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, milk chocolate works well and offers a sweeter variation. Just be sure to use good-quality chocolate for best results.
How can I prevent the chocolate gelt from sticking to the pan?
Lightly brushing the pan with neutral oil before pouring the chocolate helps prevent sticking. Allowing the chocolate to chill completely before removing also ensures clean release.
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Hanukkah Gelt Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 24 mini chocolates 1x
- Diet: Kosher
Description
Celebrate Hanukkah with this simple and festive Hanukkah Gelt recipe featuring rich melted dark or semisweet chocolate garnished with optional apricots, almonds, golden sprinkles, and a touch of sea salt. Perfect for gifting or snacking during the holiday season.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Neutral oil, for brushing
- 6 oz. dark chocolate or semisweet chocolate chips
Optional Toppings
- 2 dried apricots, cut into thin strips
- 1 tbsp. slivered almonds
- 1 tsp. gold sprinkles or white sparkling sugar
- 1/2 tsp. coarse Himalayan sea salt
Instructions
- Prepare the pans: Lightly brush a nonstick 24-cup or two 12-cup mini cupcake pans with neutral oil to prevent the chocolate from sticking.
- Melt the chocolate: Place the chocolate chips in a small heatproof bowl and microwave in 20-second increments, stirring thoroughly between each interval until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. Alternatively, melt the chocolate over a double boiler for gentle heat.
- Fill the molds and add toppings: Pour about 1 to 1 1/2 teaspoons of melted chocolate into each prepared cup, tapping the pan gently to evenly distribute the chocolate. If desired, sprinkle the tops with dried apricot strips, slivered almonds, gold sprinkles, or a pinch of coarse Himalayan sea salt for added flavor and texture.
- Chill the gelt: Place the pans in the refrigerator for approximately 10 minutes or until the chocolate is firm and set.
- Unmold and serve: Invert the pan onto a cutting board and gently tap the back of the cups to release the chocolate gelt. Serve immediately or wrap in foil for gifting or later consumption.
Notes
- Use high-quality dark or semisweet chocolate for best flavor and smoother melting.
- Optional toppings add texture and festive appearance but can be omitted for a classic chocolate gelt.
- Ensure the pans are well oiled to make removing the chocolate easier.
- Store leftover gelt in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Jewish
Keywords: Hanukkah Gelt, chocolate gelt, Hanukkah recipe, holiday chocolate, chocolate treats, festive chocolate, no bake dessert

