Heavenly Dairy Noodle Kugel Recipes: A Deliciously Creamy Delight

Italian Chef Team

2 months ago

Heavenly Dairy Noodle Kugel Recipes: A Deliciously Creamy Delight

Noodle kugel, a classic Ashkenazi Jewish dish, is a comforting and versatile casserole that can be enjoyed as a side dish, dessert, or even a main course. While variations abound, the dairy version stands out for its rich, creamy texture and subtly sweet flavor. This article explores several delectable dairy noodle kugel recipes, offering detailed instructions and tips to help you create the perfect kugel every time. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, you’ll find a recipe here to suit your taste and skill level.

## What is Noodle Kugel?

Before diving into the recipes, let’s understand what exactly noodle kugel is. Essentially, it’s a baked pudding made with egg noodles, dairy (typically cottage cheese, sour cream, and butter), eggs, sugar, and various flavorings. Raisins are a common addition, but other fruits, spices, and even savory ingredients can be incorporated. The kugel is baked until golden brown and slightly firm, creating a satisfyingly rich and flavorful dish.

## The Allure of Dairy Noodle Kugel

Dairy noodle kugel offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors. The egg noodles provide a soft and slightly chewy base, while the dairy components contribute a creamy richness that melts in your mouth. The sweetness is usually balanced by the tanginess of the sour cream or cream cheese, creating a harmonious flavor profile. It’s a dish that evokes feelings of warmth, nostalgia, and comfort, making it perfect for holidays, Shabbat dinners, or any occasion that calls for a special treat.

## Essential Ingredients for Dairy Noodle Kugel

Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients you’ll need for most dairy noodle kugel recipes:

* **Egg Noodles:** Wide egg noodles are the traditional choice, but medium or even fine egg noodles can be used. Cook the noodles al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven.

* **Dairy:** This is where the magic happens. The combination of cottage cheese, sour cream, and melted butter creates the signature creamy texture. Some recipes also include cream cheese or ricotta cheese for added richness. Using full-fat dairy products will result in the most decadent kugel.

* **Eggs:** Eggs bind the ingredients together and contribute to the kugel’s structure. They also add richness and a custardy texture.

* **Sugar:** Sugar provides sweetness and helps to caramelize the top of the kugel. Granulated sugar is commonly used, but brown sugar can also be incorporated for a deeper flavor.

* **Butter:** Melted butter adds flavor and richness to the kugel. It also helps to prevent the noodles from sticking together.

* **Flavorings:** This is where you can get creative! Vanilla extract is a classic addition, but other options include cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon zest, and orange zest. Raisins are a common ingredient, but other dried fruits, such as cranberries or chopped apples, can also be used.

* **Salt:** A pinch of salt enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

## Recipe 1: Classic Dairy Noodle Kugel

This recipe is a timeless classic, featuring a simple yet delicious combination of ingredients.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 pound wide egg noodles
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 1 pound cottage cheese, small curd
* 1 cup sour cream
* 4 large eggs, lightly beaten
* 1 cup raisins (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Preheat the oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.

2. **Cook the noodles:** Cook the egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

3. **Combine the ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well.

4. **Add the dairy:** Add the cottage cheese and sour cream to the bowl and mix until smooth.

5. **Incorporate the eggs:** Add the lightly beaten eggs to the mixture and stir until combined.

6. **Fold in the noodles:** Gently fold the cooked egg noodles into the dairy mixture until evenly coated.

7. **Add the raisins (optional):** If using raisins, gently fold them into the noodle mixture.

8. **Pour into the baking dish:** Pour the noodle mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

9. **Bake:** Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the kugel is golden brown and set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.

10. **Cool and serve:** Let the kugel cool slightly before cutting and serving. It can be served warm or at room temperature.

**Tips for Success:**

* **Don’t overcook the noodles:** Overcooked noodles will result in a mushy kugel.
* **Use full-fat dairy:** Full-fat dairy products will create a richer and creamier kugel.
* **Mix well:** Ensure that all ingredients are thoroughly combined for a consistent flavor and texture.
* **Bake until golden brown:** The kugel should be golden brown and set before removing it from the oven.
* **Let it cool slightly:** Cooling the kugel slightly will allow it to set up and make it easier to cut.

## Recipe 2: Cream Cheese Noodle Kugel

This recipe adds cream cheese to the mix, creating an even richer and more decadent kugel.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 pound wide egg noodles
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1 pound cottage cheese, small curd
* 1 cup sour cream
* 4 large eggs, lightly beaten
* 1 cup raisins (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Preheat the oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.

2. **Cook the noodles:** Cook the egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

3. **Combine the ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, sugar, softened cream cheese, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Mix until smooth and creamy. A hand mixer or stand mixer can be helpful here.

4. **Add the dairy:** Add the cottage cheese and sour cream to the bowl and mix until smooth.

5. **Incorporate the eggs:** Add the lightly beaten eggs to the mixture and stir until combined.

6. **Fold in the noodles:** Gently fold the cooked egg noodles into the dairy mixture until evenly coated.

7. **Add the raisins (optional):** If using raisins, gently fold them into the noodle mixture.

8. **Pour into the baking dish:** Pour the noodle mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

9. **Bake:** Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the kugel is golden brown and set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.

10. **Cool and serve:** Let the kugel cool slightly before cutting and serving. It can be served warm or at room temperature.

**Tips for Success:**

* **Soften the cream cheese:** Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to prevent lumps in the kugel.
* **Use a mixer:** A hand mixer or stand mixer will help to create a smoother and creamier mixture.
* **Don’t overbake:** Overbaking can result in a dry kugel. Check for doneness regularly after 50 minutes.

## Recipe 3: Apple Noodle Kugel

This recipe adds a touch of fruitiness to the classic kugel, making it a delightful dessert option.

**Ingredients:**

**Instructions:**

1. **Preheat the oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.

2. **Cook the noodles:** Cook the egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

3. **Combine the ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well.

4. **Add the dairy:** Add the cottage cheese and sour cream to the bowl and mix until smooth.

5. **Incorporate the eggs:** Add the lightly beaten eggs to the mixture and stir until combined.

6. **Fold in the noodles:** Gently fold the cooked egg noodles into the dairy mixture until evenly coated.

7. **Add the apples:** Gently fold the diced apples into the noodle mixture.

8. **Pour into the baking dish:** Pour the noodle mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

9. **Bake:** Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the kugel is golden brown and set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean. The apples should be tender.

10. **Cool and serve:** Let the kugel cool slightly before cutting and serving. It can be served warm or at room temperature.

**Tips for Success:**

* **Choose the right apples:** Use apples that hold their shape well during baking, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji.
* **Dice the apples evenly:** Ensure the apples are diced into small, even pieces so they cook evenly.
* **Toss the apples with lemon juice (optional):** Tossing the diced apples with a tablespoon of lemon juice will prevent them from browning.

## Recipe 4: Savory Dairy Noodle Kugel

This recipe transforms the traditional sweet kugel into a savory side dish, perfect for pairing with roasted meats or vegetables.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 pound wide egg noodles
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 pound cottage cheese, small curd
* 1 cup sour cream
* 4 large eggs, lightly beaten
* 1 cup chopped cooked vegetables (e.g., broccoli, spinach, mushrooms) (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Preheat the oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.

2. **Cook the noodles:** Cook the egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

3. **Combine the ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix well.

4. **Add the dairy:** Add the cottage cheese and sour cream to the bowl and mix until smooth.

5. **Incorporate the eggs:** Add the lightly beaten eggs to the mixture and stir until combined.

6. **Fold in the noodles:** Gently fold the cooked egg noodles into the dairy mixture until evenly coated.

7. **Add the vegetables (optional):** If using chopped vegetables, gently fold them into the noodle mixture.

8. **Pour into the baking dish:** Pour the noodle mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

9. **Bake:** Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the kugel is golden brown and set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.

10. **Cool and serve:** Let the kugel cool slightly before cutting and serving. It can be served warm or at room temperature.

**Tips for Success:**

* **Use good quality Parmesan cheese:** Freshly grated Parmesan cheese will add the most flavor.
* **Cook the vegetables before adding them:** If using fresh vegetables, cook them before adding them to the kugel to ensure they are tender.
* **Adjust the seasonings to your taste:** Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper to suit your preferences.

## Recipe 5: Individual Dairy Noodle Kugels

This recipe is perfect for portion control or for serving a crowd. Instead of baking one large kugel, you’ll bake individual kugels in muffin tins.

**Ingredients:**

* 1/2 pound wide egg noodles
* 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/2 pound cottage cheese, small curd
* 1/2 cup sour cream
* 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
* 1/2 cup raisins (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Preheat the oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin.

2. **Cook the noodles:** Cook the egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

3. **Combine the ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Mix well.

4. **Add the dairy:** Add the cottage cheese and sour cream to the bowl and mix until smooth.

5. **Incorporate the eggs:** Add the lightly beaten eggs to the mixture and stir until combined.

6. **Fold in the noodles:** Gently fold the cooked egg noodles into the dairy mixture until evenly coated.

7. **Add the raisins (optional):** If using raisins, gently fold them into the noodle mixture.

8. **Fill the muffin tins:** Spoon the noodle mixture into the prepared muffin tins, filling each cup about three-quarters full.

9. **Bake:** Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the kugels are golden brown and set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

10. **Cool and serve:** Let the kugels cool slightly in the muffin tin before removing them and serving. They can be served warm or at room temperature.

**Tips for Success:**

* **Grease the muffin tins well:** Ensure the muffin tins are thoroughly greased to prevent the kugels from sticking.
* **Don’t overfill the muffin tins:** Overfilling the muffin tins can cause the kugels to overflow during baking.
* **Let them cool slightly before removing:** Cooling the kugels slightly will allow them to set up and make them easier to remove from the muffin tins.

## Variations and Customizations

The beauty of noodle kugel lies in its versatility. Here are some ideas for variations and customizations:

* **Add different fruits:** Experiment with other fruits, such as cranberries, blueberries, or peaches.
* **Use different spices:** Try adding cardamom, ginger, or allspice for a unique flavor.
* **Add nuts:** Chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds can add a crunchy texture.
* **Use different cheeses:** Experiment with ricotta cheese, mascarpone cheese, or even a sharp cheddar cheese (for a savory kugel).
* **Add vegetables:** Incorporate cooked vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or carrots for a healthier twist.
* **Top with streusel:** Create a streusel topping with flour, butter, and sugar for added sweetness and crunch.
* **Add a citrus zest:** Lemon, orange, or grapefruit zest can brighten the flavor of the kugel.
* **Make it gluten-free:** Use gluten-free noodles to enjoy the kugel while adhering to dietary restrictions.

## Serving Suggestions

Dairy noodle kugel can be served in various ways, depending on the recipe and your preference:

* **As a side dish:** Serve alongside roasted chicken, brisket, or other main courses.
* **As a dessert:** Enjoy it as a sweet treat after a meal.
* **For breakfast or brunch:** Serve it warm or at room temperature with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt.
* **At holidays and special occasions:** It’s a traditional dish for Jewish holidays such as Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.
* **As a snack:** Enjoy a slice of kugel as a satisfying and comforting snack.

## Storage Instructions

* **Refrigerate:** Leftover kugel can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container.
* **Reheat:** Reheat the kugel in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual slices in the microwave.
* **Freeze:** Kugel can also be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

## Conclusion

Dairy noodle kugel is a truly special dish that offers endless possibilities for customization. Whether you prefer a classic, creamy kugel or a more adventurous variation, these recipes provide a solid foundation for creating your own signature version. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the comforting and delicious flavors of dairy noodle kugel! It’s a dish that’s sure to bring warmth and joy to any occasion.

Tags: Recipes