Lokshen Kugel(Dairy)
A comforting Jewish baked noodle pudding with a sweet, creamy flavor profile, featuring raisins and tart apples, perfect for holiday or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease a 3-quart ovenproof dish with some of the melted butter.
- Cook the noodles in a large quantity of boiling, salted water for 8 to 10 minutes until tender; drain well.
- In a large bowl, combine cottage cheese, sour cream, eggs, sugar, raisins, and minced tart apple.
- Add the cooked noodles to the cheese mixture and mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to the greased dish.
- In a small bowl, mix bread crumbs, cinnamon, and brown sugar.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the noodle mixture.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 40 minutes until golden and set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of cottage cheese and ricotta. If you prefer a sweeter kugel, increase the sugar or add a splash of vanilla extract. To enhance texture, feel free to add chopped nuts or substitute dried fruits like cranberries for the raisins. Make sure to grease the dish well to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm as a comforting side dish or dessert. It pairs beautifully with savory dishes like roasted chicken or brisket. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad or with a bowl of Creamy French Potato Vegetable Soup for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lokshen Kugel(Dairy) contains roughly 692 calories, with 14g protein, 140g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value), protein (29% of the Daily Value), and iron (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 594mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).
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 Lokshen Kugel ahead of time?
Yes, Lokshen Kugel can be prepared a day in advance. Simply assemble the dish, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it in the oven from the fridge; you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I freeze Lokshen Kugel?
Yes, you can freeze Lokshen Kugel. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What variations can I try with this recipe?
You can customize Lokshen Kugel by adding different fruits like berries or peaches, or by incorporating spices like nutmeg for a warm flavor. For a savory twist, consider omitting sugar and adding sautéed vegetables or cheese, creating a unique version that aligns with vegetarian recipes.
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).