Name: Sweet Noodle Kugel Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: Jewish
Ingredients: 12 ounces wide egg noodles; 2 teaspoons kosher salt; ¾ cup raisins; 6 large eggs; 2 cups sour cream; 1 cup cottage cheese; 8 ounce brick cream cheese (softened); ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted); 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup granulated sugar; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon cinnamon; 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; ¼ teaspoon cinnamon

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If you are searching for a comforting, sweet, and utterly delightful dish that brings together creamy textures and tender noodles in perfect harmony, you have to try this Sweet Noodle Kugel Recipe. It’s a classic, crowd-pleasing casserole traditionally enjoyed during holidays or family gatherings but honestly, it’s too good to be reserved for special occasions only. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a luscious, custardy treat with just the right touch of cinnamon and sweetness. Whether you serve it warm or chilled, it’s guaranteed to become a new favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white marbled surface with various ingredients arranged neatly. There are six white eggs in a beige carton on the lower left, next to a large white bowl filled with fine white sugar. Above the sugar, a smaller white bowl holds white cottage cheese with a nubby texture. To the right, a large white rounded bowl contains smooth white sour cream. A small white bowl at the top right is full of dark raisins. A clear glass bowl on the right side holds a pile of uncooked yellow egg noodles, curly and layered. In the center, a white plate holds a smooth, rectangular block of cream cheese. Near the bottom left, there is a small white bowl with melted yellow butter, a tiny bowl of white salt, a smaller bowl with dark vanilla extract, and another tiny bowl with light brown cinnamon powder. The whole setup is simple and clean, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Sweet Noodle Kugel Recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a crucial role. From creamy cheeses to plump raisins and seasoned noodles, every element contributes to the perfect blend of taste, texture, and aroma.

Wide egg noodles (12 ounces): The sturdy base that holds the dish together while soaking up all those luscious flavors.

Kosher salt (2 teaspoons): Essential for seasoning the boiling water and balancing sweetness.
Raisins (¾ cup): These little bursts of natural sweetness bring chewiness and contrast to the creamy kugel.
Large eggs (6): The binding agent that gives the kugel structure and richness.

Sour cream (2 cups): Adds tangy creaminess and moisture to keep the kugel luscious.
Cottage cheese (1 cup): Provides a mild cheesiness and soft texture.
Cream cheese, softened (8 ounces): Infuses depth and velvety creaminess for ultimate indulgence.

Unsalted butter, melted (¼ cup): Brings richness and helps unify the custard’s flavors.
Vanilla (1½ teaspoons): Elevates the sweetness with its warm, aromatic notes.
Granulated sugar (1 cup plus 1 tablespoon): Sweetens the entire dish and also sprinkles on top for a delicate crust.

Salt (¼ teaspoon): Balances sweetness inside the custard.
Cinnamon (¼ teaspoon plus ¼ teaspoon): Adds cozy warmth, sprinkled both inside and on top for a fragrant finish.

How to Make Sweet Noodle Kugel Recipe

A clear blender jar filled with a light creamy yellow liquid mixture sits on a white marbled surface, viewed from above. The mixture inside the blender is smooth with tiny bubbles on the surface, indicating it has just been blended. The blender has a black handle on the left side, and the jar has a spout at the top right. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish

Set your oven to 350°F and position your rack in the middle. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick spray to ensure your kugel slides out easily once baked. This step ensures even cooking and an effortless clean-up later.

Step 2: Plump the Raisins

Place the raisins in a small bowl and cover them with hot water. Soaking softens them, bringing out their natural sweetness and preventing dryness in your kugel, which creates that perfect chewy texture throughout the creamy noodles.

Step 3: Boil the Noodles

In a large pot, bring 5 quarts of water to a rolling boil along with 2 teaspoons of kosher salt—this seasons the noodles from within. Add the wide egg noodles and cook for about 7 minutes until tender but not fully cooked. Drain them thoroughly and return noodles to the pot to prepare for the custard.

Step 4: Blend the Custard

In a blender or food processor, combine the eggs, sour cream, cottage cheese, softened cream cheese, melted butter, vanilla, sugar, salt, and a bit of cinnamon. Blend until everything is uniformly smooth and creamy. This heavenly custard is what turns noodles into a luscious, velvety kugel.

Step 5: Combine Noodles and Custard

Pour your silky custard over the drained noodles in the pot and stir gently but thoroughly. Next, drain the plumped raisins and fold them into the mixture. This step ensures every bite delivers balanced creaminess, sweetness, and chewy surprises.

Step 6: Transfer and Top

Spread the noodle mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Whisk together the tablespoon of sugar and the remaining cinnamon, then sprinkle this fragrant topping over the kugel. This little sugary cinnamon crust adds texture and eye-catching appeal.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for about 1 hour. You’ll know it’s done when the center is set and the tips of the noodles have turned a beautiful golden brown. This slow baking melds the flavors and creates that signature kugel texture.

Step 8: Rest Before Serving

Once out of the oven, give your kugel 15-20 minutes to rest and set up further. Resting helps the kugel slice neatly and gives the flavors time to mingle.

How to Serve Sweet Noodle Kugel Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle a little powdered sugar or extra cinnamon over slices for a pretty touch. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream can also brighten the presentation and add a burst of freshness against the creamy, sweet backdrop.

Side Dishes

Sweet Noodle Kugel pairs wonderfully with savory dishes like roasted chicken or brisket, balancing salty, meaty flavors with its gentle sweetness. For a breakfast or brunch spread, serve it alongside fresh fruit for contrasting textures and tastes.

Creative Ways to Present

Try baking the kugel in individual ramekins for a personalized touch, perfect for entertaining. You can also sprinkle chopped nuts over the top before baking to add a satisfying crunch. Or serve small squares chilled as a sweet snack or dessert that’s perfect for summer gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover any leftover kugel tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate. It keeps beautifully for up to 4 days and actually tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld.

Freezing

You can freeze this kugel for up to 3 months. Just wrap it well with plastic wrap and foil or place in an airtight container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat leftover kugel in the oven at 325°F for about 20 minutes until warmed through. This helps retain its crispy edges and creamy interior much better than the microwave does. For convenience, slices can also be reheated individually in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I substitute the cream cheese with something else?

While cream cheese adds creaminess and tang, you can substitute with mascarpone or ricotta for a lighter texture, though the flavor profile will vary slightly.

Is it necessary to soak the raisins?

Soaking plumps the raisins and makes them juicier in the kugel. If you skip this step, the raisins may taste a bit dry or tougher after baking.

Can I make this kugel gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap the wide egg noodles for gluten-free noodles or pasta made from alternative flours. Make sure they hold up well when baked for best results.

Is this dish traditionally served warm or cold?

Sweet Noodle Kugel is delicious both warm and cold, so it’s a matter of personal preference. Warm kugel is comforting, while chilled slices make a refreshing dessert or snack.

How sweet is this kugel?

This Sweet Noodle Kugel Recipe strikes a lovely balance with a moderate sweetness that enhances the creamy custard and cinnamon but doesn’t overpower the dish.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about the Sweet Noodle Kugel Recipe—how humble ingredients come together to create a dish that’s comforting, cozy, and decadently creamy all at once. I encourage you to make this recipe your own and share it with the people you love. Whether it’s a holiday staple or an everyday indulgence, this kugel will bring warmth to your table and smiles all around.