Across cultures, pomegranates symbolize fertility and life, and, according to Jewish tradition, mitzvot (commandments). Each pomegranate is said to contain the same number of arils (seeds) as there are mitzvot: 613. And so, we eat this majestic fruit on Rosh Hashanah to symbolize our intent to perform mitzvot in the New Year.
Eating a pomegranate, however, is a little more difficult than just rinsing off an apple and biting into it. With pomegranates, you have to break open the dull flesh and free those edible, magical packets of sweet antioxidants. Those who are willing to invest the time and patience in harvesting those bright treasures are rewarded with splendor. In short, pomegranates are classy AF.
Each aril used in the recipes below serves as a reminder to do bountiful mitzvot in the New Year. Bake with as many as possible and treat yourself to a decadent dessert or two (or seven!).
Find instructions on how to seed a pomegranate here.
Pomegranate Champagne Sorbet
This unique treat proves luxury is possible at any temperature. L’chaim!
Brown Sugar Challah With Pomegranate Glaze
With its swirl of brown sugar, pinch of cardamom and beautiful pink glaze, this challah would look great on your dinner table, just saying. No one said you have to wait until dessert to enjoy something sweet!
Chocolate Pomegranate Cupcakes
What is a more alluring combination than pomegranates and dark chocolate? Nothing. These chocolate cupcakes are stuffed with silky pomegranate curd and topped with rich pomegranate frosting and arils. BRB, we’re gonna go bake some now….
Date Pomegranate Blondies
Blondies are typically more understated than most desserts, but no less delicious. These, which feature both dates and pomegranates, are at the cutting edge of simple decadence.
Individual Pomegranate Tarts
Rejoice! These gorgeous tarts are soft-set, meaning they can’t be cut and served “neatly.” Meaning everyone has the ultimate excuse to enjoy their own—guilt-free.
Spiced Pomegranate Meringues
This dessert plays with textures and tastes: a crispy meringue, fluffy whipped cream and tangy aril bursts—all complimented with anise and Chinese five-spice. How’s that for unpredictable? (And delicious.)
Pomegranate Tahini Bark
Pomegranate seeds, tahini, candied ginger and sea salt make this dessert the pinnacle of the wow factor. You can use whatever chocolate you want too (though the correct answer is dark).
