Sukkot has always been a happy time of year for me. Having dwelled on serious introspection during the High Holy Days, we can begin looking forward to partaking of meals amidst the beautiful autumn foliage, as we dine and dwell in our makeshift tabernacles. Soon thereafter, it is time for Jews around the world to embrace Simchat Torah, that exciting event signifying the completion of the annual reading of the Torah. 

In addition to attending synagogue services and hearing the conclusion of the Book of Deuteronomy, immediately followed by the early excerpts from the Book of Genesis, this holiday reminds us of the cyclical nature of our religion and its connectedness to the Torah. Traditionally, this celebration is marked by children marching around the sanctuary carrying flags which are often topped by caramel or candied apples, to help assure the younger generation that learning and Torah are sweet.  As such, this fall festival has long been associated with the treat of caramel apples, which are easy to prepare in your own kitchen.

Grocery stores usually carry everything you’ll need: fresh apples of any variety, wooden skewers and caramel sheets. Once warmed, these sheets can be easily wrapped around an apple. Insert a wooden skewer into the apple’s core and dip the warm, sticky caramel into any topping that appeal to you and the young ones in your household: dried fruits, ice cream sprinkles, miniature chocolate chips or shredded coconut. Creativity can lead to even more healthy options. Rolling the caramel apples in raw oats or crushed granola, for example, boosts the fiber content of this fall treat.  Choosing chopped nuts or crunchy peanut butter adds a protein-rich punch. A final roll in some wheat germ will offer a healthy dose of iron, Vitamin B, zinc, phosphorous, and polyunsaturated fats!

Let’s not forget the nutritional content of the apple itself. One medium-sized apple offers its consumer a good dose of potassium, Vitamin C, beta-carotene and fiber from the skin. This beautiful fall gem is also a potent source of phytonutrients and antioxidants, helpful in ridding the body of damaging free radicals.

This week, as you proudly parade around the sanctuary and embrace the beginning of yet another blessed cycle of Torah, bite into a healthier caramel apple and savor the sweetness of the New Year!