Charoset is more than just a side dish—it’s a tradition, a symbol, and a burst of sweet, spiced flavor that brings the Passover table to life. Fruit & Nut Charoset is a rich blend of chopped apples, sweet dried fruits, crunchy nuts, and warm spices, all tied together with a splash of wine or juice. The texture is chunky and satisfying, and the taste? Sweet, earthy, and filled with meaning.
Every family has its own version of Fruit & Nut Charoset, passed down or tweaked through generations. This version balances crunch with chew, sweetness with spice. It’s easy to make, comes together fast, and can be prepped ahead of time. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or just want a naturally sweet treat, this Fruit & Nut Charoset is one of those dishes that tastes like tradition and feels like home.
I first tried Fruit & Nut Charoset at a friend’s Seder dinner. I didn’t know what to expect, but I was totally hooked from the first spoonful. It was like eating a cross between fruit salad and dessert, but with a deeper, spiced warmth that made it feel special. The mix of apples, dates, cinnamon, and walnuts was so simple but so good.
When I made Fruit & Nut Charoset myself later, I added a handful of raisins and used grape juice instead of wine. It instantly became a favorite. Now I make Fruit & Nut Charoset every Passover—and sometimes even when I just want a healthy snack with some flair. It’s perfect with matzo, but I’ve also eaten it on toast, yogurt, and even ice cream. No judgment here!
So, if you’re looking to bring a touch of tradition and sweetness to your table, give this Fruit & Nut Charoset a try. You won’t be disappointed!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Naturally Sweet – No added sugar needed.
- Easy to Make – Just chop, mix, and chill.
- Customizable – Switch up the fruits or nuts to your liking.
- Perfect for Passover – A traditional favorite with deep meaning.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Tastes even better the next day.
Health Benefits of Fruit & Nut Charoset
Charoset isn’t just symbolic—it’s nutritious too:
- High in Fiber – From apples, dates, and raisins.
- Heart-Healthy Fats – Walnuts and almonds bring omega-3s.
- Natural Energy Boost – Dried fruits provide quick, natural carbs.
- Full of Antioxidants – Cinnamon, apples, and nuts support immune health.
- No Refined Sugar – Sweetened naturally with fruit and juice.
When to Make Fruit & Nut Charoset
- Passover Celebrations – A must-have on your Seder plate.
- Holiday Gatherings – Share a taste of tradition with family and friends.
- Healthy Snacking – A sweet, satisfying treat anytime.
- Lunchbox Addition – A fun side to go with matzo or crackers.
- Sweet Topping – Spoon it over oatmeal, yogurt, or pancakes.
Chef’s Notes: Fruit & Nut Charoset
- Choose high-quality dried fruits – The flavor of this dish depends heavily on the natural sweetness and richness of your ingredients.
- Use a bold red wine – A dry Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon deepens the flavor beautifully. Avoid overly sweet wines.
- Simmer gently, not boil – This preserves the texture of the fruit and helps them plump up without becoming mushy.
- Don’t overprocess the almonds – Keep a mix of fine and coarse bits for the best mouthfeel and textural interest.
- Orange blossom water is potent – Use sparingly; too much can overpower the dish. A few drops go a long way.
- Let it rest – Giving the charoset a few minutes to sit helps the flavors meld and improves its consistency.
- Make ahead-friendly – This dish can be made up to 2 days in advance. The flavor deepens with time.
- Great for spreading – Try it as a topping on matzo, toast, or crackers for a sweet-savory bite.
- Serve warm or room temp – It’s flexible and delicious both ways, making it ideal for potlucks or buffets.
- Get creative with add-ins – A touch of citrus zest, fresh herbs like mint, or pomegranate seeds can elevate the visual appeal and flavor complexity.
Fruit & Nut Charoset
4
servings5
minutes10
minutes210
kcal15
minutesExperience the vibrant burst of tradition with this Fruit & Nut Charoset—a festive medley that brings together dried fruits and roasted nuts with a whisper of aromatic spices. This easy, wholesome side dish transforms modest ingredients into an impressive treat that dazzles with every bite. Perfect for holiday tables or dinner parties, its balanced sweetness and subtle spice nuances make it unforgettable. Embrace a refined yet approachable recipe that sparkles with authenticity and seasonal charm.
Ingredients
- Liquid Component
⅓ cup robust red wine a quality Merlot works best
- Dried Fruits
3.5 oz plump raisins roughly ½ cup
2 oz pitted medjool dates chopped, about 2–3 dates
1 oz chopped dried apricots approximately ¼ cup
- Seasonings
1/8 tsp ground cinnamon
ground cloves just a pinch
kosher salt to taste
- Nut Element Optional Flavor
2 oz roasted almonds lightly chopped, about ⅓ cup
¼ tsp orange blossom water optional for an aromatic lift
- Alternative Ingredients
Red wine: Swap with a mix of high-quality grape juice and a splash of red wine vinegar to simulate acidity.
Raisins: Dried cranberries can be used instead for a tart contrast.
Medjool dates: Chopped dried figs serve as a great alternative.
Dried apricots: Try dried peaches or even chopped dried prunes for a different twist.
Roasted almonds: If allergic or preferring a change roasted walnuts or pecans work well.
Ground cinnamon cloves: A pinch of allspice or nutmeg can substitute if needed.
Orange blossom water: Light rose water is an acceptable replacement.
Directions
- Simmering Fruit Mixture – In a large saucepan, heat ⅓ cup red wine over medium heat until a gentle simmer is achieved (approximately 2–3 minutes). Then, stir in the raisins, chopped dates, dried apricots, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves. Allow the mixture to simmer uncovered for about 5 minutes until the dried fruits are thoroughly plumped and the liquid nearly evaporates; optionally, adjust with a dash of kosher salt.
- Preparing Nut Texture – Meanwhile, place 2 oz of roasted almonds into a food processor. Pulse in short, quick bursts (roughly six one-second pulses) so they break into a mix of chunky pieces and fine crumbs, ensuring some texture remains (this should take about 30 seconds). If a finer consistency is desired, a couple of extra pulses can be added as an optional step.
- Combining Finishing Touches – Transfer the chopped almonds into a mixing bowl and gently fold in the warm fruit mixture until evenly combined (allow about 2 minutes for thorough mixing). For an optional aromatic boost, drizzle in ¼ teaspoon of orange blossom water and taste for salt adjustments. Let the final charoset rest for an additional 1–2 minutes at room temperature before serving, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
Equipment
- Food Processor
Notes
- For best results, use high-quality dried fruits and a good Merlot to ensure depth of flavor. Taste as you simmer to fine-tune the balance of spices and salt. This charoset pairs magnificently with fresh flatbreads or challah and can be enhanced with a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds or chopped fresh herbs for an added burst of color and texture. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature for a versatile, crowd-pleasing side dish.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 210kcal
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 100mg
- Potassium: 250mg
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 25g
- Protein: 18g
- Vitamin A: 50IU
- Vitamin C: 1mg
- Calcium: 50mg
- Iron: 1mg
FAQs: Fruit & Nut Charoset
Can I make this charoset without wine?
Yes! Use a mix of high-quality grape juice with a splash of red wine vinegar to replicate the depth and acidity of red wine.
How long can I store fruit and nut charoset?
It keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. The flavors continue to meld and improve over time.
Can I freeze charoset?
It’s not recommended. The texture of the dried fruit and nuts can suffer after freezing and thawing.
Is this recipe kosher for Passover?
Yes, if all your ingredients (especially wine and spices) are certified kosher for Passover. Always double-check labels.
Can I make this recipe nut-free?
Absolutely! Replace the nuts with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch without the allergens.
What kind of orange blossom water should I use?
Any culinary-grade orange blossom water will work. Look for it in Middle Eastern or Mediterranean grocery stores, or online.
Can I add fresh fruit instead of dried?
It’s not traditional, but you can fold in finely chopped fresh apple right before serving for a juicy crunch.
How do I prevent it from becoming too sticky?
If it feels too sticky after cooling, stir in a tiny splash of warm water or grape juice to loosen the texture.
Can I toast the almonds myself instead of buying roasted?
Yes! Toast whole almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5–7 minutes or until golden and fragrant. Cool before chopping.
Is this dish sweet or savory?
It leans sweet but is balanced by warm spices, salt, and nuts. It’s a versatile side or spread with both sweet and savory uses.
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