Simple cinnamon noodle kugel recipe

Cinnamon noodle kugel is a beloved dish that perfectly combines rich flavors and delightful textures. This noodle kugel recipe features tender egg noodles enveloped in a creamy and sweet cheese custard, enhanced with a sprinkle of cinnamon and brown sugar. The result? 

A velvety recipe dessert that offers a warm, comforting experience. Making it is straightforward, suitable for both seasoned and novice cooks. With just a few ingredients, such as noodles, cottage cheese, and eggs, anyone can whip up this delightful treat. you will never want to use another kugel recipe again.

Origins of  Noodle Kugel

Noodle kugel has deep roots in Jewish culinary history, likely originating in Eastern Europe. Traditionally served during Shabbat and holidays, it reflects the comfort food of many Jewish households. 

Over the years, families have adapted the recipe, adding personal touches like fruit and nuts, making it a versatile dish that brings nostalgia and warmth to the table.

Ingredients needed for the recipe

To create the perfect cinnamon noodle kugel, you will need the following ingredients for this recipe:

• 12 ounces wide egg noodles (1 package) 
• 16 ounces small curd cottage cheese
• 6 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup white sugar

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 (4 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 6 tablespoons butter, melted

• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Kugel is indulgent, sweet, and to me, it embodies the warmth of family gatherings , where loved ones gather from near and far to celebrate. While some consider it a regular dinner dish, for me. 

It’s more of a special holiday treat. Though kugel is simple to prepare, it requires time to bake and cool, and the anticipation adds to its festive appeal when served.

Importance of each Ingredient 

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating the dish's unique texture and flavor.

• Egg Noodles: Provide a hearty base that absorbs the creamy filling.
• Cottage Cheese & Sour Cream: consistency and a hint of tanginess.
• Eggs: Act as a binding agent, bringing everything together while adding richness.

• Butter: Contributes to a luscious flavor and enhances the creaminess.
• Sweeteners (White Sugar & Brown Sugar): Add a balanced sweetness, with brown sugar delivering a hint of caramel flavor.

Enhancing the kugel with cinnamon adds warmth and nostalgia, making each bite a comforting experience. As a personal touch, consider adding raisins or nuts for added texture.

Preparation Steps for the recipe 

Boiling the Noodles : Start by greasing a 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a rolling boil. The salt not only adds flavor but also enhances the noodles' texture.

Add the egg noodles to the boiling water and cook them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal is to cook them until they are tender yet still firm to the bite (al dente). Once cooked, drain the noodles well, ensuring that any excess moisture is removed, as this helps avoid a soggy kugel later.

 In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs until well blended. Add in the cottage cheese, whole milk, and sour cream, and mix thoroughly. This creates a rich custard base. Gently fold in the melted butter, cream cheese, vanilla extract, and salt .

In a smaller bowl, combine the sugars, cinnamon, and any desired add-ins like raisins or nuts. This mixture adds sweetness and flavor to the kugel. Once everything is well mixed, stir in the drained noodles until they are evenly coated. 

This step is essential, ensuring every noodle is infused with that delightful cinnamon goodness. Now, your kugel mixture is ready to be transferred to the prepared baking dish!

 Baking the noodle kugel recipe

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s at the perfect temperature for a lovely, golden-brown result. Before placing the kugel in the oven, don’t forget to combine brown sugar and cinnamon for a flavorful topping. This adds sweetness and a satisfying crunch.  

Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 1 hour. You'll know it's done when the sauce is bubbly and the noodles are golden on top—this is the moment you really want to savor. Once out of the oven, allow the kugel to cool for at least 10 minutes on a wire rack. 

Serve warm: A fresh serving of noodle kugel straight from the oven is comforting and delightful.

• Top with fresh fruits: adding sliced berries or bananas .
• Accompany with yogurt: A dollop of vanilla yogurt drizzled .
• Enjoy cold: The leftovers are just as delicious! Snack on them cold for a delightful treat later.

This kugel is perfect for family gatherings or holiday celebrations, where it is sure to become a favorite.

Tips for Perfecting the Kugel

To ensure your kugel recipe comes out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Cook Noodles Al Dente: This prevents the kugel from becoming mushy after baking. Aim for a firm bite.
• Cool Before Slicing: Allow it to cool for about 10-15 minutes after baking. This helps the kugel set and makes slicing easier.

• Experiment with Sweetness: Adjust sugar levels based on your preference. If you enjoy a sweeter kugel, feel free to add more sugar or use brown sugar for a richer flavor.

With these variations and tips, your kugel will not only be delicious but also uniquely yours!

Conclusion Recap of Key Points

Cinnamon noodle kugel is a delightful blend of sweet and creamy that brings warmth to any gathering. Key highlights from the recipe include:

Ingredients: Simple staples like egg noodles, cottage cheese, and a touch of cinnamon and brown sugar create a comforting dish.  preparation: The process of boiling the noodles, mixing in the custard, and baking to golden perfection is straightforward and user-friendly. 

Variations and Tips: From adding fruits and nuts to adjusting sweetness, there are countless ways to make this dish your own.This versatility makes this recipe not just a holiday staple but also a beloved everyday treat.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

As you embark on your kugel-making journey, remember that this dish is deeply personal. Don't hesitate to make adjustments that reflect your taste or family traditions. Consider serving it warm at gatherings, where its fragrant aroma will invite guests to indulge. 

Conversely, leftovers make for a delightful recipe cold snack—perfect for those late-night cravings! Enjoy the process, and savor every bite of this traditional comfort food.