Cozy Comfort: A Delicious Cinnamon Noodle Kugel Recipe

Cinnamon noodle kugel is a delightful and comforting dish, perfect for holidays, potlucks, or simply a cozy night in. This sweet noodle casserole, deeply rooted in Ashkenazi Jewish culinary tradition, boasts a creamy, custardy base infused with warm cinnamon spice and studded with plump raisins. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to make. This recipe provides detailed steps and instructions to ensure your kugel turns out perfectly every time, a golden-brown masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds.

## What is Kugel?

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about kugel. Kugel, derived from the German word for “sphere” or “ball,” is a baked pudding or casserole, most commonly made with noodles or potatoes. It’s a staple in Ashkenazi Jewish cuisine, often served during holidays like Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and Sukkot. Kugels can be savory or sweet, with countless variations depending on family traditions and regional preferences. Sweet kugels often feature ingredients like cinnamon, sugar, raisins, and cream cheese, while savory kugels may include vegetables, cheeses, and spices.

This cinnamon noodle kugel is a sweet version, offering a harmonious blend of creamy, sweet, and spiced flavors. The noodles provide a satisfyingly chewy texture, while the custard base delivers richness and moisture. The cinnamon adds a warm, comforting aroma and flavor, and the raisins provide bursts of sweetness. It’s a truly irresistible combination.

## Why This Recipe Works

This recipe is meticulously crafted to ensure a perfect kugel every time. Here’s why it stands out:

* **Creamy Custard Base:** The foundation of this kugel is a luscious custard made with sour cream, cream cheese, eggs, and sugar. This creates a rich, decadent base that holds the noodles together and provides a creamy texture.
* **Perfectly Cooked Noodles:** The noodles are cooked al dente, ensuring they retain their shape and texture during baking. Overcooked noodles will become mushy, while undercooked noodles will be too firm.
* **Balanced Sweetness:** The recipe strikes the perfect balance between sweetness and spice. The sugar provides sweetness, while the cinnamon adds warmth and complexity. The amount of sugar can be adjusted to your personal preference.
* **Golden-Brown Crust:** The kugel is baked until golden brown on top, creating a slightly crispy crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.
* **Easy to Follow Instructions:** The recipe is broken down into clear, concise steps, making it easy for even novice bakers to achieve success.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious cinnamon noodle kugel:

* **1 pound wide egg noodles:** These are the classic noodles for kugel, providing a satisfyingly chewy texture. Make sure they are wide egg noodles, as other types of noodles may not work as well.
* **8 ounces cream cheese, softened:** Softened cream cheese is essential for a smooth, creamy custard base. Make sure the cream cheese is completely softened before using it, or it will be difficult to incorporate into the custard.
* **1 cup sour cream:** Sour cream adds tanginess and richness to the custard. You can use full-fat or low-fat sour cream, depending on your preference.
* **1 cup granulated sugar:** Sugar provides sweetness and helps to create a golden-brown crust. You can adjust the amount of sugar to your personal preference.
* **4 large eggs:** Eggs bind the ingredients together and add richness to the custard. Make sure the eggs are at room temperature for best results.
* **1 teaspoon vanilla extract:** Vanilla extract enhances the flavor of the kugel. Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.
* **2 teaspoons ground cinnamon:** Cinnamon adds warmth and spice to the kugel. You can adjust the amount of cinnamon to your personal preference.
* **1/2 teaspoon salt:** Salt enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
* **1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted:** Melted butter adds richness and flavor to the kugel. Use unsalted butter so you can control the amount of salt in the recipe.
* **1 cup raisins:** Raisins add sweetness and texture to the kugel. You can use golden raisins or dark raisins, depending on your preference. You can also substitute other dried fruits, such as cranberries or chopped dried apricots.
* **Optional Topping:** Additional cinnamon and sugar for sprinkling on top before baking.

## Equipment You’ll Need

* Large pot for boiling noodles
* Colander for draining noodles
* Large mixing bowl
* Hand mixer or stand mixer
* 9×13 inch baking dish
* Measuring cups and spoons

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get started! Here are the detailed steps to make this delectable cinnamon noodle kugel:

**Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish**

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This will prevent the kugel from sticking to the dish.

**Step 2: Cook the Noodles**

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package directions, until al dente. This usually takes about 7-8 minutes. Drain the noodles in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. This will prevent the noodles from becoming mushy.

**Step 3: Prepare the Custard Base**

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and creamy. This is important to prevent lumps in the custard.

Add the sour cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt to the bowl. Beat until well combined and smooth. Make sure all ingredients are fully incorporated.

**Step 4: Combine Noodles and Custard**

Gently fold the cooked and drained noodles into the custard mixture, ensuring that the noodles are evenly coated. Add the raisins and gently fold them in as well. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the noodles mushy.

**Step 5: Pour into Baking Dish and Bake**

Pour the noodle mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top of the kugel. This will help create a golden-brown crust.

Optional: Sprinkle the top of the kugel with additional cinnamon and sugar for extra flavor and sweetness.

Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the kugel is golden brown on top and the custard is set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

**Step 6: Cool and Serve**

Let the kugel cool in the baking dish for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This will allow the custard to set further and make it easier to slice. Serve warm or at room temperature.

## Tips for the Perfect Kugel

Here are some tips to help you make the perfect cinnamon noodle kugel:

* **Use softened cream cheese:** This is crucial for a smooth, creamy custard base. Make sure the cream cheese is completely softened before using it.
* **Don’t overcook the noodles:** Cook the noodles al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy during baking.
* **Drain the noodles well:** Make sure the noodles are well-drained before adding them to the custard mixture. Excess water can make the kugel soggy.
* **Don’t overmix:** Overmixing can make the noodles mushy. Gently fold the noodles into the custard mixture.
* **Adjust the sweetness to your liking:** You can adjust the amount of sugar to your personal preference. If you prefer a less sweet kugel, reduce the amount of sugar by 1/4 cup.
* **Add a topping:** Sprinkle the top of the kugel with additional cinnamon and sugar for extra flavor and sweetness.
* **Let it cool:** Allow the kugel to cool for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This will allow the custard to set further and make it easier to slice.

## Variations and Additions

This cinnamon noodle kugel recipe is a great starting point, but you can easily customize it to your liking. Here are some variations and additions to try:

* **Add apples:** Peel and dice an apple and add it to the noodle mixture. Apples add a sweet and tart flavor and a pleasant texture.
* **Add pecans or walnuts:** Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the noodle mixture for a nutty crunch.
* **Add pineapple:** Add crushed pineapple to the noodle mixture for a tropical twist.
* **Use different dried fruits:** Substitute other dried fruits, such as cranberries or chopped dried apricots, for the raisins.
* **Add cottage cheese:** Add 1 cup of cottage cheese to the custard mixture for a tangy and creamy flavor.
* **Make it gluten-free:** Use gluten-free egg noodles to make this kugel gluten-free.
* **Add a streusel topping:** Create a streusel topping with flour, butter, sugar, and cinnamon and sprinkle it over the kugel before baking.

## Serving Suggestions

Cinnamon noodle kugel is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways. Here are some serving suggestions:

* **As a side dish:** Serve kugel as a side dish for holidays like Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and Sukkot. It pairs well with brisket, roasted chicken, or other traditional Jewish dishes.
* **As a dessert:** Serve kugel as a dessert after a meal. It’s a comforting and satisfying way to end a meal.
* **For brunch:** Serve kugel as part of a brunch spread. It’s a great addition to bagels, lox, and other brunch favorites.
* **For potlucks:** Bring kugel to a potluck. It’s always a crowd-pleaser.
* **As a snack:** Enjoy a slice of kugel as a snack anytime of day.

## Storage Instructions

Store leftover kugel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

## Can You Freeze Kugel?

Yes, you can freeze kugel. Let the kugel cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

## Cinnamon Noodle Kugel Recipe

Here’s the complete recipe for cinnamon noodle kugel:

**Yields:** 12 servings
**Prep Time:** 20 minutes
**Cook Time:** 45-55 minutes

**Ingredients:**

* 1 pound wide egg noodles
* 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 1 cup sour cream
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 4 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
* 1 cup raisins
* Optional: Additional cinnamon and sugar for sprinkling on top

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Cook egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sour cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Beat until well combined.
4. Gently fold cooked noodles and raisins into the custard mixture.
5. Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly. Drizzle melted butter over the top.
6. Optional: Sprinkle with additional cinnamon and sugar.
7. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until golden brown and custard is set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
8. Let cool for 15-20 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your delicious and comforting cinnamon noodle kugel!

## Nutrition Information (Approximate)

* Calories: 350-400 per serving (varies based on ingredients and portion size)
* Fat: 15-20g
* Carbohydrates: 45-50g
* Protein: 8-10g

***

This cinnamon noodle kugel recipe is a true classic, offering a taste of tradition and comfort in every bite. Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering or simply a cozy night in, this kugel is sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the warm, sweet, and comforting flavors of this beloved dish! Bon appétit!