Charoset, a dish traditionally served at the Passover Seder, is a wonderful combination of apples, cinnamon, walnuts, honey, and red wine! Member’s Mark™ Organic Cinnamon adds delicious warmth and depth to this simple recipe. It’s delicious served atop matzo, or just on its own.

What is Charoset?

Charoset is a traditional dish eaten during the Jewish holiday of Passover.

What it is:

Charoset is a sweet, chunky mixture typically made from:

Chopped apples
Nuts (like walnuts or almonds)
Sweet wine or grape juice
Spices such as cinnamon

What it represents

It symbolizes the mortar that the Israelites used when they were enslaved in ancient Egypt—an important part of the Passover story.

How it tastes

It’s sweet, slightly spiced, and textured—kind of like a rustic fruit-and-nut relish. The flavor can vary depending on the recipe.

Variations

Different Jewish communities make it differently:

Ashkenazi-style: Apples, walnuts, cinnamon, and wine (most common in the U.S.)
Sephardic/Mizrahi-style: Often includes dates, figs, raisins, honey, and sometimes spices like cloves or ginger—more paste-like and richer

How it’s eaten

Charoset is served on the Seder plate and eaten during the Passover meal, often on matzo.

Ways to Serve Charoset

Charoset is super versatile—it doesn’t have to stay confined to the Seder plate. Here are some creative (and really good) ways to serve it:

Classic & Traditional

On matzo – The most traditional pairing during Passover
With horseradish – A sweet + spicy combo (often eaten together at the Seder)
Alongside roasted meats – Especially brisket or chicken for contrast

Elevated Appetizers

Charoset crostini – Spread on toasted baguette slices with a little goat cheese or ricotta
Stuffed dates – Fill dates with charoset for a double-sweet, textured bite
Endive boats – Spoon into endive leaves for a fresh, slightly bitter balance
Phyllo cups – Bake mini shells and fill with charoset for easy party bites

Brunch & Breakfast Ideas

Yogurt parfaits – Layer with Greek yogurt and granola
Over oatmeal – Adds sweetness and texture without extra sugar
On pancakes or waffles – Use like a chunky topping instead of syrup

Dessert Twists

Charoset tartlets – Use as a filling in mini tart shells
Ice cream topping – Especially good over vanilla or cinnamon ice cream
Mixed into baked apples – Lean into the apple flavor for a cozy dessert

Savory Pairings

With cheese boards – Pairs beautifully with sharp cheeses (cheddar, manchego)
As a sandwich spread – Try it with turkey, chicken, or even grilled cheese
With roasted vegetables – Great contrast with carrots, sweet potatoes, or squash

Modern / Unexpected

Charoset bruschetta with prosciutto – Sweet + salty combo
Mixed into grain bowls – Adds brightness to farro or quinoa bowls
Charoset-stuffed chicken – Spoon inside before roasting for a subtle sweetness

Classic Charoset

Charoset, a dish traditionally served at the Passover Seder, is a wonderful combination of apples, cinnamon, walnuts, honey, and red wine! It's delicious served atop matzo, or just on its own.

Servings

Prep Time 10

Total Time 10

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Ingredients

6 Apples finely diced
1 tbsp Member's Mark™ Organic Cinnamon
⅓ cup Red wine or grape juice
1½ cup Walnuts finely chopped
1 tbsp Honey
¼ cup Chopped dates or raisins optional

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Instructions

In large bowl, combine all ingredients. Cover and store in the fridge until ready to serve.

Course: Side Dish

Keyword: charoset, cinnamon, passover, side