• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Renana's Kitchen - Kosher Food Blog With Easy Recipes
  • Recipe Index
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
menu icon
go to homepage
search icon
Homepage link
  • Recipe Index
  • Parve Desserts
  • Holidays
  • Vegan
  • Gluten Free
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
  • ×

    Passover Charoset

    Published: Apr 5, 2020 · Modified: Mar 10, 2024 · by Renana · I may get commission for purchases made through links in this post at no extra cost to you.

    Jump to Recipe Print Recipe
    Home » Recipes » Passover » Passover Charoset

    As Passover approaches, there's a flurry of preparation in Jewish households, each dish bearing significance and symbolism. Among the array of traditional foods, charoset stands out for its sweet, nutty flavor and deep-rooted symbolism, representing the mortar used by the Israelites in their enslavement in Egypt. This simple yet flavorful recipe combines the sweetness of ripe fruit with the crunch of walnuts and a hint of spice, creating a delicious accompaniment to matzo during the Passover Seder.

    Passover Charoset spread in a bowl and on a matzo

    What is charoset

    Charoset, haroset, haroseth or charoses is a sweet paste that is eaten during the Passover Seder. The color and texture of this delicious paste are meant to resemble mortar or mud that the Jews used when they were slaves in Egypt and built storehouses.

    Every family has its own version of charoset and I am sharing my mom's recipe which is an Israeli-Ashkenazi version of charoset.

    And here’s the thing, like most people I’m sure, when I asked my mom for the recipe, all she gave me was a list of ingredients without quantities and steps to follow. You just need to figure it out. When it’s a cake recipe she never bothers to write down what temperature to bake and for how long. And if you ask, all she says is "bake until its ready," okay, thanks, mom!

    So I asked my mom for this chroset recipe because like many families, this year we are on our own. During world pandemic, most of us celebrated a small Passover Seder due to the lockdown. On top of it all, this is the first time I have ever needed to make chroset actually. I assume a lot of people were in my situation so I decided to share my family’s recipe after I figured out the quantities and method. Plus it's very easy to make and after you taste it, you might even wonder why don’t we eat it all year round?

    ingredients - banana apple walnuts

    Charoset ingredients

    To make this chroset, you will need an apple, banana, walnuts, a few tablespoons of sweet wine and 2 spices (cinnamon and ginger). From what I read online, I learned that some families use dates or dates spread, some use raisins and other dried fruits. You get the general idea of this paste, sweet and fruity. About the ginger, my mom said it can be either the spice or grated ginger root. I used the spice because that is what I could get.

    Because our Seder was small, I only made a small batch of this chroset, but I hope next year I can make much more and we will be able to celebrate with all the family. If you need a bigger batch, all you need to do is double the ingredients.

    batter before mixing in a bowl

    How to make charoset

    To make the charoset, begin by mashing a ripe banana and blending it with cinnamon and ginger for a fragrant base. Next, grate a crisp apple into the mixture, infusing it with natural sweetness. Pour in a generous splash of red sweet wine. Finally, add chopped walnuts for a satisfying crunch, reminiscent of the mortar used by the Israelites. Mix everything together until well-combined, and serve this flavorful charoset alongside matzo during the Passover Seder, inviting all to partake in the tradition and celebration of freedom.

    Passover charoset tips

    Choose the Right Apples

    Opt for a sweet, crisp variety like Honeycrisp or Fuji for the best flavor and texture in your charoset. I used a tart granny smith apple that works well in this specific recipe.

    Banana Ripeness

    Use a ripe banana for easier mashing and to add natural sweetness to the mixture.

    Balancing Spices

    Adjust the amounts of cinnamon and ginger to suit your taste preferences. Start with the recommended amounts and add more if desired.

    Wine Selection

    Select a red sweet wine that complements the sweetness of the fruit without overpowering it. Manischewitz is a popular choice, but feel free to experiment with other options.

    Consistency

    Mash the banana well and grate the apple finely to achieve a smooth yet textured consistency in the charoset.

    Nut Options

    While walnuts are traditional, you can also use other nuts like almonds or pecans for variation or if allergies are a concern.

    Make Ahead

    Charoset often tastes even better when allowed to sit for a day or two in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld together. Prepare it ahead of time to save on last-minute prep during the Seder.

    Personalize

    Feel free to add extra ingredients such as dried fruits like raisins or apricots, or a touch of honey for added sweetness, to customize your charoset to your liking.

    FAQS

    What is the significance of charoset during Passover?

    Charoset holds symbolic importance during the Passover Seder, representing the mortar used by the Israelites when they were enslaved in Egypt. Its sweet flavor also serves as a reminder of the sweetness of freedom.

    Can I make charoset in advance?

    Yes, you can prepare charoset ahead of time. In fact, many people find that the flavors meld together even better when it's allowed to sit in the refrigerator for a day or two before serving.

    Are there any variations of charoset?

    Yes, charoset recipes can vary based on cultural and personal preferences. Some recipes incorporate different types of fruits, nuts, spices, and sweeteners. Experimenting with variations can add unique flavors to your Passover celebration.

    Can I use different types of nuts in charoset?

    Absolutely! While walnuts are traditional, you can use other nuts such as almonds, pecans, or even pistachios to add different flavors and textures to your charoset.

    Is charoset gluten-free?

    Yes, charoset is typically gluten-free as it consists of fruits, nuts, spices, and wine. However, it's essential to check the ingredients of any packaged items you use to ensure they are gluten-free.

    Can I adjust the sweetness of charoset?

    Yes, you can adjust the sweetness of charoset to suit your taste preferences. You can add more or less sweetener, such as honey or wine, to achieve your desired level of sweetness.

    How long does charoset last?

    Charoset can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for several days. However, it's best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of preparation for optimal flavor and texture.

    bowl of charoses

    Other Passover recipes to try:

    • Roasted Fennel
    • Vegan Ice Cream in a small bowl
      Banana Nice Cream
    • Israeli Salad in a bowl
      Israeli Salad
    • gluten free cherry clafoutis cake in a round pan
      Gluten Free Cherry Clafoutis

    If you have any leftover charoset and wonder to do with it, I have a charoset cake recipe you should try! its so simple and delicious.

    More Passover recipes:
    Passover Rolls
    Passover Chocolate Coconut Balls (non-dairy)
    Maple Passover Cake
    Homemade Marzipan
    Vegetarian Chopped Liver

    Make this Passover charoset

    With just a handful of ingredients and a few easy steps, you can prepare this homemade charoset, infusing your celebration with tradition and taste. Let's dive into making this delightful Passover treat.

    Passover Charoset spread in a bowl and on a matzo

    Passover Charoset

    Charoset is the sweet paste that is eaten during the Passover Seder. My family version of this yummy paste that is an Israeli-Ashkenazi version.
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 10 minutes mins
    Cook Time 0 minutes mins
    Total Time 10 minutes mins
    Course Appetizer, Snack
    Cuisine Jewish
    Servings 4 servings

    Ingredients
      

    • 1 apple
    • 1 banana
    • Handful walnuts
    • ½ teaspoon ginger powder
    • 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder
    • 2 tablespoon red sweet wine

    Instructions
     

    • In a bowl, mash the banana with a fork.
    • Add the cinnamon and ginger and mix.
    • Peel and grate the apple and add it to the bowl.
    • Add the wine to the bowl and mix.
    • Chop the walnuts and add to the bowl.
    • Mix well.
    • Have some chroset on matzo and happy Passover!
    Keyword best charoset recipe, charoses for passover, charoset, charoset passover, charoset recipe, easy charoset recipe, haroset, haroset recipe, haroseth
    haroseth on matza

    More Passover Recipes

    • almond flour honey cookies
      3 Ingredient Almond Flour Cookies With Honey
    • Gluten Free Banana Bread (Parve)
      Gluten Free Banana Bread (Parve)
    • Passover chocolate cake slice with parve ganache topping on a blue plate
      Passover Flourless Chocolate Cake (Parve)
    • Passover almond butter cookies
      4-Ingredient Almond Butter Cookies (Passover GF & DF)

    Filed Under: Gluten Free, Holidays, Passover, Vegan Tagged With: Apple, Banana

    Subscribe

    for your weekly recipe fix.

    Reader Interactions

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

    Primary Sidebar



    Renana Spiegel Levkovich

    Hello!

    I'm Renana and I share kosher recipes for Shabbat, yummy parve desserts, and Jewish holiday recipes - and so much more. I share easy kosher recipes for the whole family, along with some pretty great photographs, and easy-to-follow instructions. Enjoy!

    Contact me for any question →


    Parve Desserts

    sweet zucchini bread on a platter

    Easy Zucchini Bread

    colorful coconut treats on a plate

    Vegan Coconut Treats

    Parve Date Roll Cookies on a plate

    Parve Date Roll Cookies

    chia seed jam in a jar

    Berry Chia Seed Jam

    Jewish Thanksgiving

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    About

    • About
    • Disclaimer

    Newsletter



    Contact

    • Contact
    • FAQ

    As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

    Copyright © 2025 Renana's Kitchen