The Hanukkah holiday is celebrated each year, and one of the most beloved traditions during the eight-day celebration is eating scrumptious jelly donuts. But why have jelly donuts become such an integral part of the holiday, and what is the history behind this delicious tradition?
Origin of the Jelly Donut Tradition
The first jelly donuts eaten during Hanukkah were likely a variation of the German Berliner, which was brought to North America by central and eastern European immigrants. French-Canadian Jews already had a Hanukkah tradition of eating fried ragouts and sfenj, which are deep-fried dough. But jelly donuts, referred to as “sufganiyot,” quickly became popular. Sufganiyot in Israel is associated with the holiday of Hanukkah.
Symbolism Behind Sufganiyot
In Jewish culture, fried foods are thought to represent the miracle of Hanukkah, which took place more than two thousand years ago. When not enough oil was left to keep the Temple’s menorah lantern burning for a single day, it instead miraculously kept lit for eight days. Sufganiyot are symbolic of this miracle because they are a fried food. The jelly also has significance, as it has been said to recall the wealthy crimson color of the temple curtains.
Modern-Day Significance of Sufganiyot
At Hanukkah today, sufganiyot is one of the most beloved of all of the holiday treats. Many homes serve them, as do places of worship and special Hanukkah events. Other traditional Hanukkah treats include latkes and other fried foods. It has become a popular custom during Hanukkah parties to put a variety of donut fillings, such as jelly, chocolate, and apricot, in bowls and encourage children to fill their own donuts.
Although the true origin of the jelly donut tradition is likely lost to history, its modern-day status as a must-have Hanukkah treat is undeniable. Enjoyed by children of all ages at Hanukkah parties, the jelly donut is a sweet, joyous way to celebrate the wondrous miracle that happened more than two thousand years ago.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.