Meaning "head of the year," this is the Jewish New Year. It is celebrated during the first two days of Tishri, the first month of the Jewish calendar, which corresponds to September or October on our solar calendar. (Because the traditional Jewish calendar is based on the lunar cycle, the various holidays don't always occur on the same date of our 12-month calendar. This year, Rosh Hashanah begins on September 7.)

Desserts tend to be on the sweet side, because the wish is for a sweet year ahead.

Honey Cake is a traditional Rosh Hashanah dessert. Traditionally served the first night of Rosh Hashanah, this cake expresses hope that the year to come will be sweet. You can make it two to three days ahead of time and store it in a zip-top plastic bag; the flavor actually improves over time.