The latke. (Or, if you must, the “potato pancake.”) It’s the ultimate Hanukkah comfort food, and everyone has their very own “best” way of making it. Here, peep how we whip up this savory holiday treat in the Berliner household (then replicate with abandon). From my family to yours, enjoy.

Serves 4 – 6

Ingredients

6 potatoes (I swapped a white potato for a sweet potato, but don’t tell latke traditionalists)
2 large eggs, well-beaten
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp white pepper
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 tbsp flour
1 tsp salt
Oil for frying

Directions
1. Peel and coarsely grate potatoes, then throughly press all liquid out of them.
2. Toss all ingredients together, and refrigerate to keep cold.
3. Heat oil on medium-high in a frying pan, then add batter by spoon to oil without crowding. Gently flatten with a spatula.
4. When latkes are crisp and brown on both sides, remove and drain on paper towels.
5. Reheat in oven just before serving, if necessary.
6. Serve with sour cream, applesauce, or both. Tip: make your own applesauce. It makes all the difference. (This recipe is to die for.)

By Joanna Berliner, Editor 

Have a favorite holiday recipe? Share it in the comments below, or tweet us at @ruelala.

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But regardless, ever since I was a little kid I’ve loved everything that comes with the eight-day celebration. Crisp golden latkes heaped with applesauce. That sweet little box of multicolored candles. The simple act of taking the menorahs (yes, plural!) out of the hall closet. And – of course – the presents.

This year, Hanukkah comes early – sundown on December 8 – so I’m already well into checking off my gift lists. Below, peek at eight day’s worth of go-to gifts (including two DIYs that cost under $10…. shh).

Day One 
Cookie mix in a mason jar. I plan on gifting this perfectly buttery sugar cookie mix – complete with Star of David cookie cutters – to the family friend who’s hosting this year’s annual Hanukkah party.

Day Two 
Cozy cashmere throw. Paired with a box of spiced hot cocoa and a New York Times bestseller, this luxe blanket is the ultimate cozy-day gift for Mom.

Day Three 
Divided pan. Seemingly random at first look, this pan is actually a strangely ideal gift for my 20-year-old sister – who finds the thought of mixing foods absolutely horrendous.

Day Four
DIY notecards. Sublimely simple to make, all these notecards require is a whimsical stamp, some ink, and card stock. I’m making loads – and tying them up with grosgrain ribbon – then adding them to gifts left and right.

Day Five 
Le Creuset utensil crock. I’m filling this up with kitcheny treats – blueberry balsamic vinegar, a smidgen of truffle oil, and fresh brioche – and gifting to a foodie friend who can’t get enough of this iconic brand.

Day Six 
The Night Circus.  The best book I’ve read in years, Erin Morgenstern’s read is the perfect mix of Marquez-esque magical realism and the undeniable magic of the circus (think Water for Elephants). Dad will adore.

Day Seven
Jocelyn fur earmuffs. I’m hugely obsessed with fur this year – and these lush, cold-weather musts are just the thing for my roommate, who’s never braved a Boston winter.

Day Eight
Essie® nail polish. I can’t even begin to tell you how much I love essie. I’m buying Beyond Cozy – a silvery gold glitter – in spades this year. (And grabbing one for myself, too…)

By Joanna Berliner, Editor 

Have a go-to Hanukkah gift this year? Share it in the comments below, or tweet us @ruelala.

Not a Member and like The (Style) Guide? You’ll love Rue La La. Join now.