There’s something utterly comforting about the warm, sweet aroma of Noodle Kugel wafting from the oven, especially during the festive season of Hanukkah. I first encountered this delightful dish at a family gathering, where I watched my grandmother dance between the kitchen and dining room, proudly presenting her beloved kugel. This sweet noodle casserole becomes a centerpiece that invites everyone to the table, whether served as a side or a decadent dessert.
What truly sets this Noodle Kugel apart is its creamy, custard-like texture combined with tender noodles, all lightly kissed with cinnamon. It’s versatile enough to grace any meal, from breakfast to dinner, and its simplicity in preparation means you can easily share this beloved tradition with your own loved ones. Join me as we dive into the magic of this classic recipe one that’s sure to delight your family during Hanukkah and beyond!
Why is Noodle Kugel for Hanukkah a Must-Try?
Comforting, Warm Aroma: There’s nothing quite like the sweet scent of noodle kugel baking to bring everyone home for the holidays.
Creamy, Custard-Like Texture: This dish combines tender noodles enveloped in a rich custard, creating a delightful bite every time.
Versatile for Any Meal: Serve it as a decadent dessert or a comforting side dish—either way, it elevates your festive feast!
Family Tradition: Passed down through generations, this recipe allows you to share a piece of tradition with your loved ones.
Effortlessly Simple: With minimal prep time, you can focus on enjoying the holiday rather than stressing over complicated cooking.
Noodle Kugel for Hanukkah Ingredients
For the Casserole
- Butter – Greasing the pan easily; you can substitute with non-stick spray if preferred.
- Wide Egg Noodles (16 oz.) – The heart of the kugel; feel free to use medium-sized pasta like penne or fusilli as a substitute.
- Large Eggs (5) – Essential for binding the ingredients together, giving that signature custard texture.
- Melted Butter (1/2 cup) – Adds richness and moisture to every bite.
- Sour Cream (16 oz.) – Offers creaminess with a subtle tang; Greek yogurt is a lighter alternative.
- Cottage Cheese (8 oz.) – Enhances texture and protein; silken tofu is a great dairy-free option.
- Granulated Sugar (3/4 cup) – Sweetness that balances out the flavors; adjust to your taste preference.
- Cinnamon (1/2 tsp.) – Adds a cozy warmth; can be omitted for a neutral flavor if desired.
Optional Add-Ins
- Raisins or Diced Apples – Perfect for a fruity twist; they enhance the sweetness and texture of the kugel.
Embrace the comforting embrace of Noodle Kugel for Hanukkah with these essential ingredients that will fill your kitchen with love and warmth!
How to Make Noodle Kugel for Hanukkah
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large casserole dish with butter to ensure easy removal later on.
- Cook the wide egg noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain them well and set aside while you prepare the filling.
- Whisk the large eggs in a large mixing bowl until they become pale and frothy. This creates a lovely base for your rich custard mixture.
- Combine the melted butter, sour cream, cottage cheese, granulated sugar, and cinnamon with the whisked eggs until everything is well blended and creamy, with a delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen.
- Fold in the cooked noodles gently into the egg mixture using a spatula, ensuring each noodle is beautifully coated with the creamy custard.
- Pour the noodle mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly using a spatula for uniform baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 60-75 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set, filling your home with the comforting scent of baked goodness.
- Cool the kugel for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving warm. This allows it to set perfectly for a delightful texture.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for an extra touch of flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Noodle Kugel for Hanukkah
Fridge: Store leftover noodle kugel in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing to preserve its texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze noodle kugel wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To enjoy, reheat individual portions in a microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes until heated through. Each bite will remind you of its delightful flavors!
Assembling Ahead: You can prepare the noodle kugel up to the baking stage. Just cover it and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking on the day you plan to serve.
Expert Tips for Noodle Kugel for Hanukkah
- Perfect Noodle Texture: Make sure to cook the noodles al dente; this helps them retain a nice bite even after baking, ensuring your noodle kugel is neither mushy nor overcooked.
- Mix Well: When combining the egg mixture with the noodles, be gentle but thorough. You want every noodle coated with the custard for balanced flavor throughout the kugel.
- Add Sweetness Gradually: Start with 3/4 cup of sugar, then taste before baking. You can always add more if you prefer a sweeter dish; just remember that it should complement the noodles, not overpower them.
- Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye as the kugel bakes; ovens can vary widely. If the top gets too dark before the middle is set, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to keep it from burning.
- Cooling Matters: Let the kugel rest for 10–15 minutes after baking. This helps it firm up, making serving easier and enhancing the overall texture of your noodle kugel.
Make Ahead Options
This Noodle Kugel for Hanukkah is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance by following the recipe steps until pouring the mixture into the prepared dish. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to bake, remove the wrap and put it directly in the oven without needing additional time to adjust for the chill. Baking it right away ensures that the kugel remains just as delicious and prevents any crust from becoming soggy. Enjoy the ease of sharing this warm and comforting dish with your loved ones, all while spending less time in the kitchen!
Noodle Kugel for Hanukkah Variations
Feel free to get creative with this classic dish and customize it to suit your taste buds!
- Fruity Twist: Add raisins or diced apples to bring a burst of sweetness and enhance the kugel’s texture. They complement the custard beautifully!
- Nutty Crunch: Toss in chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the soft noodles and creamy base. The added texture elevates every bite!
- Flavor Boost: Swap in vanilla extract for a fragrant twist that pairs well with the cinnamon. It’s a subtle change that adds depth to the kugel’s flavor profile.
- Savory Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill or parsley for a savory spin on this sweet dish. This is perfect for those looking to mix it up!
- Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute silken tofu for cottage cheese and use dairy-free sour cream for a luxurious, creamy texture that’s totally plant-based.
- Cream Cheese Indulgence: Add a layer of softened cream cheese to the filling for an extra rich flavor and creaminess. It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle cayenne pepper or nutmeg to introduce a surprising warmth to the dish, perfect for those who like a little heat with their sweet.
Let your imagination run wild and customize your kugel to create a mouthwatering dish that your family will adore!
What to Serve with Noodle Kugel for Hanukkah?
There’s something special about pairing dishes that complement the sweet, custardy goodness of your noodle kugel; let’s create a delightful feast!
- Apple Cider Braised Brisket: The rich flavors of succulent brisket harmonize beautifully with the sweet noodles, providing a hearty contrast that will satisfy any appetite.
- Roast Chicken: Juicy, savory chicken seasoned with herbs balances the sweetness of the kugel, creating a comforting and diverse dining experience.
- Jewish Pickles: The tangy crunch of pickles adds a fresh, zesty element to your plate, elevating the meal by cutting through the richness of the kugel.
- Raisin-Stuffed Challah: Soft and sweet, this braided bread mirrors the flavors of the kugel, offering a delightful way to enjoy any leftover kugel as a treat.
- Blistered Brussels Sprouts: The crispy exterior and tender inside of these Brussels sprouts provide a nutty flavor and textural crunch that contrast perfectly with the creamy casserole.
- Chocolate Babka: For dessert, follow your kugel with a slice of rich, chocolate babka. Its sweet, decadent layers are a perfect bookend to the meal.
Creating a diverse table with these pairings will elevate your Hanukkah celebration, bringing warmth and joy to your family gathering. Enjoy!
Noodle Kugel for Hanukkah Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right pasta for noodle kugel?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for wide egg noodles, you can easily substitute with medium-sized pasta like penne or fusilli. Just ensure the pasta is cooked al dente; this will help maintain a firm texture throughout the baking process.
How long can I store leftover noodle kugel?
Very! You can store leftover noodle kugel in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to preserve its lovely creamy texture.
Can I freeze noodle kugel, and how do I do it?
Yes, you can freeze noodle kugel for delightful future meals! First, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then cover it with aluminum foil. It can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.
What should I do if my noodle kugel turns out too dry?
If you find your kugel is too dry, it might be due to overbaking or not enough custard mixture. To prevent this, monitor the baking time closely and ensure all noodles are well-coated before baking. If it has already baked dry, serve it warm with a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream to add moisture back in.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! The traditional noodle kugel contains dairy and eggs, so if you’re accommodating dietary restrictions, consider using alternatives like silken tofu for a dairy-free version and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for fewer calories. Just keep in mind any allergies to dairy or gluten if using standard pasta.
Can I add different flavors or ingredients to my noodle kugel?
Yes, the more the merrier! You can definitely add in extras like raisins or diced apples for a sweet twist. You might also try different extracts, such as vanilla, or even experiment with various cheeses for unique flavor profiles. Just be sure to adjust sugar accordingly when incorporating sweet add-ins.
Noodle Kugel for Hanukkah: A Delish Family Favorite!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large casserole dish with butter.
- Cook the wide egg noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain them well and set aside.
- Whisk the large eggs in a large mixing bowl until they become pale and frothy.
- Combine the melted butter, sour cream, cottage cheese, granulated sugar, and cinnamon with the whisked eggs until well blended and creamy.
- Fold in the cooked noodles gently into the egg mixture using a spatula.
- Pour the noodle mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 60-75 minutes, until the top is golden brown and set.
- Cool the kugel for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving warm.