At the center of every Passover table? Matzah. Whether you’re topping it, transforming it, or building a whole dish around it, it sets the stage for the holiday. This year, we’re celebrating by sharing a few Alexander JFS staff family recipes. Some have been around forever, others have evolved along the way. Check out these recipes that are inspired by matzah and the meaningful traditions that surround it.

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Erma Cohen’s Passover Apple Cake

Courtesy of Rabbi Barry Cohen, Chaplain Manager, Velva G. and H. Fred Levine Jewish Chaplaincy Program

Originating with a family cousin and perfected by his mother, Erma Cohen, this apple cake is a true labor of love. “I have childhood memories and looked forward to this dish every year,” Rabbi Cohen shares. “I learned how to cook it, and as an adult, I’ve passed these memories down to my children.”

Sweet, comforting, and deeply nostalgic, this cake is more than dessert, it’s a tradition.

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Homemade Horseradish

Courtesy of Marc Cohen, Senior Adult Case Manager

When it comes to matzah, some pairings are simply meant to be and for Marc Cohen, horseradish is at the top of that list. “When I think of what goes with matzah, I think of horseradish. It’s like peanut butter and jelly,” he says. A staple of the Seder plate, homemade horseradish carries both flavor and memory. Marc recalls his mother and great aunt making it when he was a child and today, he continues the tradition himself.

“It’s quite easy to make,” he adds, “as long as you can handle the fumes when the horseradish is ground up!”

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Passover Granola

Courtesy of Melanie Cole Goldberg, Volunteer Manager

Looking for a modern twist on Passover staples? This Passover granola offers a fresh, versatile way to enjoy matzah throughout the holiday. Perfect for breakfast, snacking, or even dessert, it brings together tradition and creativity.

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Keeping Traditions (and Matzah) Alive

As you prep for your Seder, bring back your go-to matzah dishes and maybe try a new twist while you’re at it. There’s always room for one more way to use it.

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