Delicious Noodle Kugel

Why Make This Recipe

Noodle kugel is a delightful dish that combines the comfort of pasta with the sweetness of dessert. Perfect for family gatherings or festive occasions, this dish can easily become a family favorite. The rich flavors and creamy texture appeal to a wide range of tastes, making it a versatile option for both young and old. Plus, it offers an interesting twist compared to traditional savory noodle dishes, allowing you to experience something both familiar and unique.

If you’re looking for a dish that is easy to prepare, can be made in advance, and tastes incredible warm or cold, look no further! This noodle kugel recipe is not only delicious but also filling, making it an ideal side dish or dessert. The combination of creamy cheeses and the warm spiciness of cinnamon creates a comforting experience that invites seconds round after round.

Another reason to make this recipe is its flexibility. You can customize it to suit your family’s preferences or dietary needs. Whether you want to add raisins, different spices, or even fresh fruits, the possibilities are endless. Preparing noodle kugel is a great chance to get creative in the kitchen!

How to Make Delicious Noodle Kugel

Creating this mouthwatering noodle kugel may sound daunting at first, but with the right approach, you’ll soon see how simple it really is. Follow the steps below, and you’ll have a delicious dish ready to enjoy in no time!

Ingredients:

• 12 oz wide egg noodles
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 16 oz sour cream
• 16 oz cottage cheese
• 8 oz cream cheese
• 4 large eggs
• 4 Tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 Tbsp vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 Tbsp cinnamon
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (additional)
• 1 tsp cinnamon (additional)

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps ensure that your kugel will cook evenly and become beautifully golden brown.

2. Cook the Noodles: In a large pot, boil water and add the wide egg noodles along with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Cook the noodles until they are al dente; this usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain the noodles well and set them aside.

3. Make the Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cottage cheese, and cream cheese. Mix these ingredients together until smooth and creamy. This rich mixture will be the base of your kugel.

4. Add Other Ingredients: Next, crack the four large eggs into the bowl. Pour in the melted butter and vanilla extract. Then, add 3/4 cup of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon. Stir all the ingredients well until everything is properly incorporated.

5. Combine with Noodles: Gently fold in the cooked noodles into the cheese mixture. Be careful not to break the noodles too much, as you want them to maintain some structure for a lovely texture in the final dish.

6. Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with a little butter or cooking spray. This prevents the kugel from sticking while it bakes. Pour the noodle mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

7. Top with Sugar and Cinnamon: In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of your noodle kugel. This will give the dish an extra sweet and spiced crunch as it bakes.

8. Bake: Placing the baking dish in the preheated oven, bake your noodle kugel for about 45 minutes to 1 hour. You want the top to be a nice golden brown and the middle to be set but still slightly jiggles.

9. Cool Before Serving: Once it’s done baking, take the dish out of the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. This cooling period helps the kugel to firm up a bit more.

How to Serve Delicious Noodle Kugel

Serving noodle kugel is a simple and enjoyable experience. You can cut the kugel into squares or rectangles for easy serving. It goes wonderfully warm or at room temperature, making it flexible for both casual family dinners and more formal occasions.

For an extra touch, consider serving it with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of warm syrup on top. This addition enhances its flavors and adds a creamy element to your dish. You may also want to pair it with fresh fruit or even a scoop of ice cream, turning it into an exquisite dessert!

Feel free to adjust the spices and toppings based on your family’s tastes. Some might enjoy adding additional toppings like toasted nuts or even a fruit compote, while others might prefer it plain to savor the flavors of the creamy noodles fully.

How to Store Delicious Noodle Kugel

After making noodle kugel, you may be left with leftovers. But don’t worry! Storing it is straightforward. Here are some guidelines on how to store your delicious dish properly:

1. Cool Completely: Allow the kugel to cool to room temperature before storing it. This will help prevent condensation from forming in the container, which could make it soggy.

2. Use Airtight Containers: Store the cooled kugel in an airtight container. You can use plastic storage containers or cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap.

3. Refrigerate: Place the stored kugel in the refrigerator if you plan to eat the leftovers within a week. It can last in the fridge for up to 5 days.

4. Freezing: If you want to store it for more extended periods, noodle kugel freezes well. To freeze, cut the kugel into individual portions and wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They should last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

5. Reheating: To reheat, thaw the frozen kugel in the refrigerator overnight. You can then heat individual portions in the microwave or warm up the whole dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Tips to Make Delicious Noodle Kugel

1. Don’t Overcook the Noodles: It’s important to cook the noodles only until al dente. They will continue to cook in the oven, and you don’t want them to become mushy.

2. Customize Your Recipe: Feel free to add raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor. This can also add a visually appealing contrast to the dish.

3. Experiment with Spices: If you love spices, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for a unique twist on the traditional flavors. These spices can elevate the dish and create a warming aroma during baking.

4. Choose Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality cheese and fresh eggs will improve the flavor and texture of your kugel. Opt for full-fat versions for the best creamy consistency.

5. Make Ahead of Time: Noodle kugel can be prepared the night before. Assemble everything, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Just pop it in the oven the next day to bake.

Variations

While the classic noodle kugel is always a hit, you might want to explore some variations of this dish:

• Apple Cinnamon Kugel: Toss in some thinly sliced apples and increase the cinnamon to create a delightful apple cinnamon version.

• Chocolate Chip Kugel: Mix in some mini chocolate chips for a sweet dessert twist that children will adore.

• Savory Noodle Kugel: Replace some of the sweet ingredients with savory elements, such as sautéed onions and herbs, for a unique side dish option.

• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute wide egg noodles with gluten-free noodles. Just adjust cooking time based on the specific noodles you choose.

FAQs

Can I make noodle kugel without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water or commercial egg replacers to make a vegan version. The texture might vary, but it can still be delicious!

Can noodle kugel be served cold?

Absolutely! Many people enjoy noodle kugel cold, and some even prefer it that way after the flavors have had a chance to meld in the refrigerator.

How long does noodle kugel take to bake?

Typically, noodle kugel takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour to bake, but this can vary depending on your oven. You want to aim for a golden brown top with a fully set center.

Can I add fruits to noodle kugel?

Yes, fruits like raisins, cranberries, or apples can be added for extra flavor and texture. Just make sure not to overload it, as it could make the kugel soggy.

Is noodle kugel suitable for Passover?

If you use matzo noodles instead of regular egg noodles, noodle kugel can be adapted for Passover. Just make sure to follow kosher rules and guidelines as necessary.

By following this guide, you will not only master the art of making delicious noodle kugel but also be able to impress family and friends with your culinary skills. Enjoy every bite and the joy it brings!

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