Noodles Kugel
A comforting baked noodle pudding with apples, cinnamon, and raisins, blending sweet and spicy flavors, perfect for family gatherings or holiday dessert tables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt oleo.
- Beat eggs until foamy.
- Boil noodles, leave slightly underdone.
- Let stand in cold water until needed.
- Pare and slice thinly the apples; add cinnamon, nutmeg, orange juice, lemon peel, and sugar.
- Mix apples and spices and let stand.
- Grease a 2-quart casserole.
- Layer noodles and apples alternately in the casserole, starting with noodles and ending with apples.
- Sprinkle raisins on each layer, except on top.
- Pour remaining orange juice over all.
- Sprinkle bread crumbs on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of oleo. If you're looking for a healthier option, substitute whole wheat noodles for the broad noodles. You can also add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture. If you prefer a sweeter kugel, increase the brown sugar slightly. Make sure the apples are tart for a balanced taste, similar to those used in Bavarian Apple Cheese Cake.
Serving Suggestions
Noodles kugel can be served warm or at room temperature as a side dish or a dessert. It pairs well with roasted meats or as part of a festive holiday meal. Consider serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. For a twist, serve alongside a slice of Upside-Down Dutch Apple Cake for a delicious apple-themed dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover noodles kugel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, cover the dish with foil to prevent drying out and warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Noodles Kugel contains roughly 670 calories, with 11g protein, 120g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. It also contributes 8g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 use other fruits instead of apples?
Yes, you can substitute apples with other fruits like pears or peaches. Just ensure they are firm and not overly ripe to maintain the texture during baking. Adjust the spices accordingly to complement the chosen fruit, and consider using a combination for a more complex flavor.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free noodles made from rice or another gluten-free grain. Just make sure to check that all other ingredients, like the bread crumbs, are also gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy a delicious gluten-free version of noodles kugel!
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare noodles kugel ahead of time. Assemble the dish but do not bake it. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's cold from the fridge.
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).