This is my kitchen and table list for hosting Hanukkah, with tools for frying latkes and filling sufganiyot plus pantry staples and festive touches for the table. I kept the picks practical and mostly easy to find. I would start with the pan, the gra...
My go-to for frying latkes, since it spreads heat evenly and gets a golden crust. It also works as an everyday pan all year. I would buy it for a first Hanukkah kitchen or as a host gift.
Tramontina 12-Inch Non Stick Frying Pan
A sturdy grater for shredding potatoes and onions for latkes. The large holes make quick work and the handle is comfortable to hold. I would buy it if my old grater is dull before the holiday.
OXO Good Grips Etched Box Grater w/ Zester
An easy way to dry shredded potatoes or squeeze out moisture before frying. Drier potatoes help latkes crisp up. I would use it for salad the rest of the year.
Zyliss Easy Spin 2 Large Salad Spinner Green
A mesh screen that sits over a hot pan so oil stays in the skillet while latkes or donuts fry. It is easy to wash and has a fold-down handle. I would grab it before the first night.
OXO Good Grips Splatter Screen
A clip on thermometer for checking oil temperature before the first latke goes in. It also helps with donuts and sufganiyot. I would clip it to the pot and keep an eye on it.
Taylor Candy and Deep Fry Analog Paddle Stainless Steel
A wide skimmer that lifts sufganiyot and latkes out of the oil and lets the extra drain. The long handle keeps hands away from the heat. Check the size on the listing before buying.
OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Spider Scoop
A thin turner that slides under a latke without breaking the crisp edge. It also flips pancakes and fish. I would give it as a small gift to a family that cooks together.
OXO Good Grips Large Silicone Flexible Turner
A simple filling tool for sufganiyot, since you press jelly right into the donut. It also pipes frosting for cookies. I would use it on the night we make donuts and wash it right after.
Dessert Decorator Plus Cake Decorating Tool
A cheap tool with a long tip for injecting jam or custard into donuts or cupcakes. I would pick it up for kids who like to help fill the sufganiyot. Check the listing for the exact set included.
Norpro Cupcake Injector/Decorating Icing Set
A sturdy baking sheet that I use to keep latkes warm in a low oven or to cool donuts. It does not warp easily and lasts for years. I would buy a pair for holiday cooking.
USA Pan Bakeware Nonstick Half Sheet Pan
A wire rack that fits a half sheet pan so latkes and donuts can drain without getting soggy. I would put paper towels underneath for the oil. It is useful for roasting all year.
Nordic Ware 43343 Oven Safe Nonstick Bake
A good shortcut for a weeknight night of Hanukkah when I do not want to grate potatoes. Just add water and an egg, then fry. I would keep a few boxes in the pantry for the whole week.
Streit's Pancake and Hashbrown Potato Mix, 6 oz
A pantry staple for latkes, matzo balls and breading. I use it to bind the potato mix and keep the fry crisp. I would stock up before the holiday since many stores run low.
Manischewitz Matzo Meal, 16oz Resealable Canister
My pick for filling sufganiyot, since the smooth fruit spreads well and has a tart edge. It also tops toast and yogurt. I would buy two jars so there is plenty for filling and for breakfast.
Bonne Maman Preserve, Raspberry, 13-Ounce
A crowd pleasing donut filling for kids who prefer chocolate to jelly. A big jar is enough for a batch of sufganiyot. I would check the kosher mark on the label before buying.
Nutella, Hazelnut Spread with Cocoa, 26.5 oz Jar
The classic dusting for sufganiyot and holiday cookies. A sifter helps for an even coat. I would grab a bag early since the holiday baking rush empties shelves.
Domino, Confectioners Sugar, Pure Cane 10-X Powdered
A neutral oil that handles the high heat needed for frying latkes and donuts. The big bottle helps when frying batches for a crowd. I would buy two bottles and check the kosher mark first.
Crisco Pure Canola Oil, 40 Fluid Ounce
A traditional latke topping for those who prefer sweet to sour cream. The jar is easy to scoop at the table. I would set it out in a small bowl for the kids.
Mott's Original Applesauce Original 23oz
A cute table detail for a Hanukkah dinner with family. The dreidel shapes add something festive without much decor. Check the current stock on the listing since seasonal items sell out.
Dreidel Stoneware Napkin Rings Set of 4
A pretty set of plates for people who like to style a holiday table. They are useful for latkes, desserts and appetizers. I would check availability early, since seasonal designs sell out.
Hanukkah Botanical Stoneware Salad Plates - Set of 4
A party game that gets kids and adults playing together at a Hanukkah gathering. It comes with cards and markers for a group. I would pick it up for a school party or a family night.
Big Dot of Happiness Hanukkah Menorah Bingo Game
Simple paper napkins for a Hanukkah party or a latke bar. The menorah design is festive and easy to match with white plates. I would buy a pack for the table and a spare for a school party.
Big Dot of Happiness Hanukkah Menorah Napkins 24 Count
A budget friendly gold menorah for a first apartment or a college dorm. The classic shape works well on a mantel or windowsill. Check the current style and stock on the Target listing.
Threshold Hanukkah Cast Metal Classic Menorah Candle
A shiny blue and silver garland for the mantel or a doorway during the eight nights. It adds some sparkle on a small budget. I would hang it early so the house feels festive from the first night.
Northlight Menorah Hanukkah Tinsel Garland - 50' x 3.5"
A reliable glass dish for kugel, brisket and roasted vegetables when I host. The lid helps keep leftovers fresh in the fridge. I would buy it before the holiday and use it all winter.
Anchor Hocking Glass Baking Dishes with Lids | Oven Safe