Date recipe ideas to incorporate into Rosh Hashanah 2025

This year, Rosh Hashanah begins at sundown on Monday, Sept. 22, and commences the evening of Wednesday, Sept. 24. This holy holiday serves as the Jewish New Year and leads to the 10-day period of introspection, self-reflection, and repentance that culminates with Yom Kippur.

Rosh Hashanah features many symbolic traditions, including the blowing of the shofar, a ram’s horn, to symbolize a “wake-up call” and significant foods, including apples and honey, that present prayers for a “sweet” future and hopes for a sweet new year, which is why dates are often included in Rosh Hashanah celebrations as well.

Why are dates part of Rosh Hashanah?

According to ConsciouslyKosher.com, certain foods “that symbolize our hopes and prayers for a sweet new year” are served both nights of Rosh Hashanah. These foods—including gourd, fenugreek, leeks, beers and dates—come directly from the Talmud and are eaten due to their ability to “grow and multiply quick, which is a good omen for the deeds of the upcoming year.”

Dates in particular are associated with the following symbolism: “We pray for G-d to vanquish our enemies, haters and those who wish evil upon us.”

Beyond that, challah and honey, as well as apples and honey, pomegranate, black-eyed peas, ram’s head, fish heads and cow’s tongue, are typically eaten as part of Rosh Hashanah traditions that are considered to be lucky foods and “eaten in abundance during the festive meals of Rosh Hashanah.”

How to enjoy dates during Rosh Hashanah

When it comes to serving dates during Rosh Hashanah, there are many options. Some may simply enjoy them in their natural state, while some may choose to dip them in sesame seed, anise seed and powdered sugar mixtures, again as part of the holiday’s tradition. Apples can also be dipped into this mixture. Dates can be stuffed with sweet or savory fillings such as marzipan or goat cheese, according to RitualWell.org.

The site supports the tradition of eating dates during Rosh Hashanah as a blessing for the new year: “As we eat this date, may we date the New Year that is beginning as one of happiness and blessing, and peace for all men. Blessed are Thou, Lord our God, Ruler of the universe, who creates the fruit of the tree.”

How to make date syrup for Rosh Hashanah

Rather than honey, date syrup can also be made and used in Rosh Hashanah for challah and apple dipping. Date syrup can be made by deseeding about 2 cups of dates, then soaking them in about one cup of water for about 20 minutes. Transfer dates and water to a food processor and grind this mixture, then put it through a sieve.

Transfer the mixture once again to a pot. Add a cup of water and juice of half a lemon, stir, and bring to a simmer. Allow mixture to cool, then squeeze the mixture with a cheese cloth, returning the liquid to the pot. Save the pulp mixture that remains in the cheesecloth, as well; it can be used for other recipes, such as energy bites and more. Bring the liquid to a boil and allow it to reduce to about half. Allow to cool before using or storing.

The Sphinx Date Co. family is wishing all those who celebrate a joyous Rosh Hashanah. Shanah Tovah!