Cream Cheese And Noodle Kugel
Cream cheese and noodle kugel is a comforting baked casserole featuring tender noodles, creamy cheese, and sweet raisins, perfect for family gatherings and holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Butter a 13 x 9-inch glass baking dish.
- Combine cooked noodles, beaten eggs, sugar, and vanilla in a large bowl.
- Blend milk, cream cheese, and cottage cheese in a blender or processor until creamy, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add the blended mixture to the noodle mixture and stir well.
- Stir in raisins, melted butter, and cinnamon.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 45 minutes.
- Cut into squares and serve warm or at room temperature with sour cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier kugel, consider adding an extra egg or using half-and-half instead of milk. You can substitute golden raisins with dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots for a different flavor. If you prefer a crunchier texture, sprinkle some chopped nuts on top before baking. Ensure the noodles are well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the kugel warm or at room temperature, topped with a generous dollop of sour cream. It pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside a slice of English Fruitcake during holiday gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Once completely cooled, store leftover kugel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds or warm the entire dish in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Adding a dollop of sour cream when serving can enhance its flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cream Cheese And Noodle Kugel contains roughly 392 calories, with 13g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make kugel ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the kugel a day in advance. Assemble it in the baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. Bake it the next day as instructed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
Can I freeze leftover kugel?
Yes, kugel freezes well. After baking and cooling, cut it into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you need a substitute for cream cheese, try using ricotta cheese or Greek yogurt for a lighter option. Both will give a creamy texture while altering the flavor slightly. Adjust the sugar if necessary to maintain the desired sweetness.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).