When it comes to comfort food, nothing quite compares to Jewish kugel. Picture this: a warm, sweet noodle dish that envelops you like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. With every bite, you’ll experience layers of flavors – from the rich sweetness of cinnamon and sugar to the comforting texture of baked noodles. It’s a dish that fills your kitchen with an aroma so inviting that even the neighbors might start knocking on your door.
I remember my first encounter with Jewish kugel vividly. My grandmother would whip up her famous recipe for family gatherings, and without fail, everyone would gather around the kitchen as if it were the Holy Grail of desserts. The excitement was palpable; we all knew we were in for a treat. Whether enjoyed during holidays or simply as a nostalgic weeknight meal, Jewish kugel is not just food – it’s a cherished memory waiting to happen.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Jewish kugel recipe combines ease of preparation with incredible flavor, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs
- Its golden crust adds visual appeal, while the delightful aroma wafts through your home, inviting everyone to join in
- Versatile enough for breakfast or dessert, this dish is sure to please any crowd
My friends still talk about the time I surprised them with Jewish kugel at a potluck dinner; their faces lit up like kids on Christmas morning.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Egg Noodles: Use wide egg noodles for that classic texture; they soak up all the goodness beautifully.
Eggs: Fresh eggs bind everything together and create that lovely custardy texture when baked.
Granulated Sugar: This adds sweetness; feel free to adjust based on your taste preference.
Cinnamon: A must-have spice that brings warmth and depth to the kugel’s flavor profile.
Butter: Use unsalted butter for richness; it enhances flavor without adding excess salt.
Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract provides a fragrant touch that elevates this dish to new heights.
Optional Raisins or Apples: Add these for extra sweetness and texture; they make each bite even more delightful.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Jewish Kugel
Cook the Noodles: Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Once it reaches a rolling boil, add 12 ounces of wide egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt half a cup of unsalted butter until it’s completely liquid but not browning. This will add richness to your kugel.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together four eggs, one cup of granulated sugar, one teaspoon of cinnamon, and two teaspoons of vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Combine Noodles and Mixture: Gently fold the cooked noodles into your egg mixture using a spatula until every noodle is coated evenly. The aroma will start teasing your senses already!
Add Optional Ingredients: If you’re using raisins or diced apples, gently fold them into the noodle mixture now for added sweetness and texture throughout.
Bake Your Kugel: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer your noodle mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for about 45 minutes or until the top turns golden brown and slightly crispy.
Enjoying Jewish kugel can take you back in time while filling your home with warmth and laughter. Each slice evokes memories of family gatherings filled with love and delicious food. Serve it warm or at room temperature; either way, it’ll be gone before you know it!
You Must Know
- Jewish kugel is not just a dish; it’s an experience
- The blend of flavors creates a comforting masterpiece, while the aroma wafts through your home, inviting everyone to gather around the table
- With a crispy top and a soft inside, each bite is pure delight
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Preheat your oven first, then prepare the ingredients while it warms up for perfect timing. Boil the noodles before mixing with eggs and spices for optimal flavor infusion.
Add Your Touch
Experiment with sweet or savory variations by adding fruits like apples or veggies like spinach. A sprinkle of cinnamon can also elevate the traditional flavor profile of your kugel.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover kugel in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm for best texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always taste your batter before baking; this lets you adjust sweetness or seasoning as needed
- Use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor impact, especially eggs and dairy
- Don’t rush—allow your kugel to cool slightly before serving to enhance its texture and flavors
I remember my first attempt at making Jewish kugel; I accidentally used salt instead of sugar! My friends still tease me about that salty surprise, but now I’m known for my deliciously sweet version.
FAQ
What is Jewish kugel?
Jewish kugel is a traditional baked pudding made from noodles or potatoes, often sweetened.
Can I make kugel ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it a day ahead and bake it just before serving.
Is Jewish kugel gluten-free?
Traditional kugel uses egg noodles, but gluten-free alternatives are available for those with dietary restrictions.
Jewish Kugel
Jewish kugel is a heartwarming dish that brings comfort and nostalgia, blending sweet egg noodles with rich flavors of cinnamon and vanilla. This easy-to-make recipe results in a golden-brown casserole that can be enjoyed as a breakfast or dessert. Its delightful aroma will fill your kitchen, making it impossible for anyone to resist. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, Jewish kugel is sure to become a cherished favorite in your home.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Jewish
Ingredients
- 12 oz wide egg noodles
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup raisins or diced apples (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the egg noodles in boiling water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla until smooth.
- Fold in the melted butter and cooked noodles until well combined.
- If desired, add raisins or apples and mix gently.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread evenly.
- Bake for 45 minutes until golden brown on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 120g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: For added flavor, experiment with different fruits or spices. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days; reheat at 350°F for best results.
